This recipe for Banana and Pumpkin Chews for Dogs is perfect for you if you’re tired of buying store-bought treats that may not be as healthy as you’d like.
I get it sometimes those treats have ingredients you can’t even pronounce, or they’re way too expensive. That’s why making your own dog treats is such a great option! Not only do you get to control exactly what goes into them, but you’ll also save some money in the process.
In this guide, I’ll teach you how to make these tasty and nutritious chews that your pup will love. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Why This Specific Recipe is Worth Making
You might be wondering: “Why should I make these Banana and Pumpkin Chews when there are so many other dog treat recipes out there?” Well, let me tell you why this one stands out from the rest!
The Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas are packed with potassium, which is essential for maintaining your dog’s heart and muscle function.
- Bananas are deliciously sweet and naturally appealing to dogs, but they are also a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which can help regulate your pup’s digestive system.
- Plus, bananas are loaded with vitamin C and B6, both of which support a healthy immune system. And let’s not forget about magnesium, which helps your dog’s bones and teeth stay strong.
So, feeding your dog banana in moderation? That’s like giving them a little boost of goodness wrapped in a treat.
The Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Now, pumpkin! This ingredient is a true powerhouse for your dog’s health. Not only is it rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which support eye health, immune function, and skin health, but pumpkin is also a great source of fiber.
- Fiber helps promote healthy digestion, making it an ideal ingredient if your dog suffers from tummy troubles or even occasional constipation.
If your pup needs to shed a few pounds, pumpkin can help them feel full without adding extra calories. It’s low in fat and high in nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any dog treat.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has earned its place as one of the healthiest oils for dogs. It’s full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can help boost your dog’s metabolism, improve brain function, and even fight inflammation.
It also contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties. When you incorporate coconut oil into your dog’s diet, it can do wonders for their coat, skin, and overall health. It’s a wonderful addition to this recipe, providing healthy fats your dog will love.
Recipe: Banana and Pumpkin Chews for Dogs
Let’s get to the fun part the recipe! I know your dog is probably drooling already, and you’re ready to get started. Here’s everything you need to know about making these delicious and nutritious chews.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Tools Needed
To make these Banana and Pumpkin Chews, you won’t need any fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls (one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients)
- A spoon or spatula for mixing
- A baking sheet
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- Cookie cutters (optional, if you want fun shapes)
- A rolling pin (optional, if you prefer to roll out the dough)
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you need to make these tasty treats:
- 1 ripe banana: Choose a banana that’s fully ripe for the best texture and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin: Make sure it’s pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices).
- 1/4 cup coconut oil: Melt it slightly before using it.
- 2 cups oat flour: A great option for dog treats, easy to digest, and gluten-free. You can also use whole wheat flour or chickpea flour, but oat flour is a gentler choice.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional): A pinch of cinnamon can add flavor and offer antioxidants.
- 1 egg: Helps bind everything together and provides extra protein for your dog.
How to Make This Recipe Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Mash your ripe banana with a fork until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the canned pumpkin, melted coconut oil, and the egg. Stir everything together until well combined. The coconut oil may harden slightly when mixed with the cold pumpkin, but don’t worry it’ll still work!
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the oat flour and cinnamon (if using) together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring as you go. Keep mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, but not too wet. If it’s too sticky, you can add a little extra oat flour to help it come together.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. If you prefer thicker treats, you can roll it a bit thicker, but keep in mind that they will take a little longer to bake.
Step 5: Cut Out the Chews
Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the dough. You can go for simple long, thing squares, fun bone shapes, or even U-shaped twists for a unique design. If you don’t have cookie cutters, you can also just slice the dough into long strips or squares with a knife about.
Step 6: Bake the Chews
Place the cut-out dough pieces on your prepared baking sheet. Bake the chews in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to make sure they don’t burn!
Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats
For serving, the portion size will depend on your dog’s size and breed. Small dogs can have one small chew per day, while larger dogs can have up to two. Just be sure to factor in these treats into your dog’s overall diet, so they don’t overdo it on calories!
Storage Tips
Once your chews are cool, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them thaw before giving them to your pup.
Nutritional Values Estimated
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional values of these Banana and Pumpkin Chews (based on one chew):
- Calories: 40-50 kcal per chew (depending on size)
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Fat: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
Tips for Perfect Treats
- If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more oat flour.
- If you want a chewier texture, try baking them for a shorter time at a lower temperature (around 300°F).
- Make sure the chews are completely cooled before storing or serving them to your dog.
Safety Notes
While these treats are healthy for most dogs, be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions. If your dog has a known food allergy (like to bananas, coconut oil, or pumpkin), avoid this recipe or substitute the ingredients accordingly. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about any new ingredients.
Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs
Pumpkin helps support healthy digestion, bananas provide energy and vitamins, and coconut oil gives a healthy boost to their skin and coat. Together, they create a well-balanced treat that your dog will love—and it’s guilt-free!
Troubleshooting: Recipe Didn’t Work?
Sometimes, even the best recipes don’t go as planned. Maybe your dough is too sticky, too dry, or maybe your chews didn’t come out as expected. Don’t worry, this happens to the best of us! Let’s take a look at a few common hiccups and how to solve them.
1. Dough Too Sticky
If your dough is too sticky and hard to work with, you can simply add more flour, but make sure you do it slowly, a little at a time. Oat flour is your friend here, but if it’s still too sticky, try chilling the dough for about 15 minutes before rolling it out. This should make the dough easier to handle!
2. Dough Too Dry
If your dough is too dry and crumbly, try adding a little more coconut oil or even a splash of water to moisten it up. The coconut oil helps hold everything together, so don’t be shy about using just a little extra if needed.
3. Chews Are Too Hard
If your chews came out too hard, it might be because they baked a bit too long. Try reducing the baking time slightly on your next batch, or consider rolling the dough thicker for a softer result.
4. Uneven Shapes
If your chews didn’t hold their shape, don’t fret! It could be that the dough wasn’t rolled evenly, or you might have overworked it. A light touch when rolling out the dough helps maintain shape consistency.
Health Concerns: Avoiding Harmful Ingredients
We want nothing but the best for our pups, so it’s important to make sure we’re not using anything that could harm them. Here’s a quick rundown of some ingredients to avoid or substitute:
- Chocolate: Always avoid chocolate in dog treats. It contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Never use sugar substitutes like xylitol. It’s highly toxic to dogs and can lead to severe health issues.
- Onions and Garlic: These are toxic to dogs, so steer clear of recipes that contain these ingredients.
- Dairy: Some dogs are lactose intolerant, so if you’re using dairy, make sure your dog can tolerate it.
This recipe avoids those common pitfalls. Bananas and pumpkin are generally safe for dogs, and coconut oil offers a healthy fat alternative.
Cost: How Affordable is This Recipe?
Making your own dog treats is one of the most budget-friendly ways to treat your pup. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
Bananas: A banana usually costs under a dollar and you only need one for the recipe.
Canned Pumpkin: A can of pumpkin typically costs around $2 to $3, and it will last for several batches of treats.
Coconut Oil: A jar of coconut oil might seem pricey at first, but it lasts a long time and you only need a small amount for each batch. You’ll likely use it for other recipes too!
Overall, this recipe is affordable compared to buying high-quality, healthy dog treats from the store. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients go a long way.
Convenience of this Recipe: How Simple is it to Make?
This recipe is incredibly straightforward. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy pet parents who want to spoil their pups without spending hours in the kitchen.
Plus, there’s no special equipment required just some mixing bowls, a rolling pin, and a baking sheet. That’s it!
The best part? You can easily adjust the recipe if you want to make a larger batch or try out different shapes and sizes. It’s a great go-to treat that’s as easy as it is fun to make.
Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad?
Once baked and cooled, your Banana and Pumpkin Chews will last for about a week if stored at room temperature in an airtight container.
If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw before serving to your dog.
The key to keeping them fresh is to make sure they’re stored properly. If they’re exposed to moisture, they could get soggy or moldy faster, so make sure your container is sealed tightly!
Will All Dogs Like This Recipe?
While most dogs will love these chews, every dog has its own preferences. Some dogs are pickier than others when it comes to treats, so if your dog turns up their nose at the first batch, it doesn’t mean the recipe is a failure.
If you’re not sure, start with a small amount to see how your dog reacts. You can also try adjusting the flavors slightly, like adding a pinch of turmeric or using a different flour.
But generally speaking, the combination of banana and pumpkin is a hit with most pups, and the texture of the chews is perfect for most dogs to enjoy!
Safe Alternatives for Ingredients Use In This Recipe
Not all dogs can handle the same ingredients, so it’s always a good idea to know safe alternatives:
- Bananas: If your dog has a sensitivity to bananas, you can substitute with applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes.
- Pumpkin: You can swap pumpkin with butternut squash if that’s easier to find or if your dog prefers it.
- Coconut Oil: If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use olive oil or unsweetened peanut butter as a substitute.
- Flour: If your dog has a grain sensitivity, oat flour or chickpea flour are excellent gluten-free alternatives.
Cooking Techniques That Will Work for This Recipe: Baking or Dehydrating
Since this recipe includes flour, the best cooking methods are baking and dehydrating. These methods ensure your chews will firm up properly and have that satisfying crunch your dog will love.
- Baking: Simply preheat your oven, bake your chews at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, and let them cool completely. This will give your treats the perfect texture.
- Dehydrating: If you have a dehydrator, you can use it to make the chews even crunchier! Set your dehydrator to a low temperature (around 145°F) and dry them for about 6 hours, depending on the thickness of the treats. Dehydrating can help preserve them for longer, too!
Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much?
Portion control is important when it comes to dog treats. While these Banana and Pumpkin Chews are healthy, you should still treat them as a snack, not a meal. The size of the portion depends on your dog’s size:
- Small dogs: 1 to 2 chews per day.
- Medium-sized dogs: 2 to 3 chews per day.
- Large dogs: 3 to 4 chews per day.
Always keep in mind that these treats should only be a small part of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Too many treats, no matter how healthy, can lead to weight gain.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin works great, just make sure to cook and puree it before using it in the recipe. Canned pumpkin is just more convenient, but fresh pumpkin is a healthy alternative.
My dog has allergies. Can I substitute the egg in this recipe?
Yes, if your dog has an egg allergy, you can try replacing the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or applesauce (about 1/4 cup).
Can I make these treats without coconut oil?
Yes! If you don’t have coconut oil, you can substitute it with olive oil or unsweetened peanut butter. Both options will still provide healthy fats for your dog.
Final Thoughts
So yeah, that’s how you can make these Banana and Pumpkin Chews for Dogs a simple, healthy, and affordable treat your pup will absolutely love. It doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow these steps.
Now I’d love to hear from you. Have you tried making homemade treats for your dog before? If so, how did it go? Let me know in the comments below!