As the weather cools down and fall settles in, we find ourselves craving comfort food and the warm, cozy scent of spices. So why not treat your dog to the same? Fall is the perfect season to give your dog something special, and these Easy Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats are just the thing!
These soft pumpkin treats are perfect for all dogs, especially seniors or those with sensitive teeth. Packed with healthy ingredients, they’ll keep your dog happy and healthy. Best of all? They smell amazing! While baking these treats, your kitchen will be filled with the scents of fall, and your pup will go wild for them—our dog Nala certainly does!
They’re great for training, rewards, or crumbling over meals to motivate picky eaters to finish their food. These treats are the perfect way to spoil your pup with a burst of fall flavor. Grab your rolling pin and start baking—your dog will thank you!
Why The Ingredients Are Great For Your Dog
- Oat flour: Oat flour is a gentle, gluten-free option that’s easy to digest. It’s packed with fiber to support healthy digestion and contains B vitamins for a shiny coat and muscle strength.
- Pumpkin puree: Pumpkin is a fiber-rich, low-calorie treat that helps digestion. It contains vitamins A, C, and E, which are great for your dog’s immune system and eye health.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce adds natural sweetness without unnecessary sugar. Apples provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that help boost your dog’s immune system.
- Cinnamon: In small amounts, cinnamon is safe for dogs and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Peanut butter: Peanut butter is loaded with protein and healthy fats that are good for your dog’s skin, coat, and energy. Make sure to choose one without added salt, sugar, xylitol, or any other additives harmful to dogs.
- Grated carrots: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and a dose of vitamins, especially beta-carotene, which supports healthy vision.
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Storing and Freezing Your Pumpkin Dog Treats
Once you’ve baked these delicious pumpkin dog treats, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh and ready for your pup! Here are some easy tips:
Storing:
- Room Temperature: These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up to prevent any moisture from making them soggy.
- Refrigerator: If you’d like them to last a bit longer, pop the container into the fridge. The treats will stay fresh for about up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing:
- Freezer: For longer storage, these treats freeze beautifully! Once they’ve cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture. You can even freeze them in individual portions to make grabbing treats super easy.
Thawing Out:
- On the Counter: When you’re ready to treat your dog, simply take a few out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
Be careful not to give your dog frozen foods, as they can be tough on their teeth, especially for dogs with dental issues or sensitive mouths. Plus, very cold foods might upset their stomach, so it’s always a good idea to let frozen treats thaw a bit before serving.
Easy Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats
Equipment
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Dog Bone Cookie Cutter Optional
Ingredients
- 3 ¼ C Ground Oat Flour or other alternative flour
- ½ C Canned Pumpkin Puree
- 1 C Unsweetened Applesauce
- ½ Tsp Cinnamon can substitute with hemp hearts or quinoa
- 2 Tbsp Peanut Butter unsweetened and unsalted
- 1 C Grated Carrots
- 1 Tsp Water add more as needed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Combine all the ingredients except for the water in a large mixing bowl. Stir the mixture with a spatula.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it with your hands. Add water, one teaspoon at a time, until the dough is soft and workable.
- Lightly flour your rolling pin and cutting board, then roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness.
- Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut shapes from the dough (or just cut into squares if you don't have one).
- Place the cut treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the treats for about 20 minutes on one side, then flip and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown.Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your pup.
Notes
- Remember to use plain canned pumpkin and avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it may contain harmful ingredients for dogs.
- Always check that your ingredients, especially peanut butter, do not contain xylitol, as it is highly toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and lead to liver failure, even in small amounts.
- Consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats or ingredients to your dog's diet. Every dog is different, with unique health and dietary needs. While the ingredients in this recipe are generally safe, your vet can provide tailored guidance.
Nala is one happy dog!
What is the oven temperature? I cant find it here thx!
Hi Monica, thank you for bringing that to my attention. You can set your oven to 350°F (175°C).