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Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats: Simple, Fun, and Tail-Wagging Treat!

If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably wondered if the treats you’re giving your dog are the best choice. Maybe you’re tired of store-bought snacks with questionable ingredients and want to make something healthier at home. Or perhaps you just want to spoil your dog with something homemade that you know is safe and tasty. I totally get it!

Making dog treats at home doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. In fact, I’m about to show you just how simple it can be with this Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats recipe.

I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to whip up a batch of healthy, delicious treats your dog will love and it only takes two ingredients! So, let’s dive in and get started!

Why This Specific Recipe is Worth Making

When it comes to your dog’s health, you want only the best ingredients. Thatโ€™s exactly why this Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats recipe is so fantastic. The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients.

You don’t need to worry about preservatives or additives because you’re using whole foods that you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, these ingredients are not only tasty but also healthy for your dog.

Let me break down the health benefits of the two main ingredients. If we’re talking about pumpkin, which is often one of the key players in dog treat recipes, it’s packed with fiber.

  • This fiber can help support your dog’s digestive system and keep things running smoothly.
  • Pumpkin is also rich in vitamins like A and C, which can boost your dogโ€™s immune system and keep their coat shiny.
  • It’s one of those ingredients that’s both yummy and good for your dog’s overall health.

Oats Flour Our Second Ingredients

Oat flour is a fantastic ingredient for dog treats, and it comes with a variety of benefits that can support your dog’s health. Here’s why it’s a great choice:

  1. Easily Digestible: Oat flour is gentle on your dog’s stomach, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive digestion or food allergies. Unlike some other flours, oats are less likely to cause upset stomachs or gastrointestinal issues.
  2. Rich in Fiber: Oat flour is packed with soluble fiber, which is great for your dog’s digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support healthy gut bacteria. This is especially beneficial for dogs that may struggle with digestion or those prone to upset stomachs.

But here’s the real kicker: making your own dog treats at home is a budget-friendly way to provide nutritious, wholesome snacks. Have you ever looked at the price tag of store-bought dog treats? Yikes!

With this recipe, you’re not only giving your dog something healthy, but you’re also saving some serious cash. And let’s face it, we’d all rather spend those extra dollars on a fun new toy or a cute collar for our pooch.

Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats Recipe

There’s something extra satisfying about baking up a batch of homemade treats for your dog, and with this Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats recipe, it couldn’t be easier. Let’s jump right into it your dog’s new favorite snack is just around the corner.

Prep Time & Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

That’s right, in under 40 minutes, you’ll have fresh, homemade dog treats ready to serve. I mean, how great is that?

Tools Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • Bowl: To mix your ingredients. I love using a large mixing bowl so there’s plenty of room to stir.
  • Baking Sheet: You’ll need one to bake those adorable treats. Make sure it’s lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
  • Rolling Pin (optional): If you want to make your treats in fun shapes, grab a rolling pin to flatten the dough before cutting them out.
  • Cookie Cutters (optional): If you want to create dog-shaped biscuits, cookie cutters are your best friend. You can use bone shapes, hearts, or even custom shapes if you’re feeling creative.
  • Fork or Knife: For scoring the dough if you want to make bite-sized pieces.

Ingredients Needed

Now, let’s talk ingredients! This is the fun part because you only need two main things:

  1. 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened, not the spiced pie mix)
  2. 1 cup of oat flour (you can substitute with whole wheat flour, almond flour, or chickpea flour, depending on your dog’s needs)

If your dog is gluten-sensitive, I highly recommend using oat flour, which is a fantastic alternative. Oat flour is gentle on your dog’s stomach and has added fiber, making it easier for your dog to digest.

Whole wheat flour is another option, but be cautious while it’s healthy, it can be a bit tougher on some pups’ tummies. If you want a grain-free treat, almond flour and chickpea flour are excellent alternatives. Always pick what’s best for your dog’s dietary needs!

How to Make This Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your treats are ready, the oven is at the perfect temperature to bake them to a golden-brown perfection.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin and Flour

In a large bowl, combine your pumpkin puree with the oat flour. Use a spoon or spatula to mix it together until a dough forms. The consistency should be thick and slightly sticky. If it feels too wet, just add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more pumpkin puree until it’s the right texture.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough with a rolling pin to about ¼-inch thickness. If you don’t want to roll it out, you can also use your hands to form small dough balls.

Step 4: Cut into Shapes

Now for the fun part cutting out the shapes! Use a cookie cutter to create little dog bone shapes, hearts, or whatever fun designs you like. If you don’t have cookie cutters, you can also cut the dough into small squares or use a knife to create fun patterns.

Step 5: Bake!

Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t overbake. If you want these treats to turn out exactly like mine in this post – every single time? then you will need this to really archive perfection in this recipe๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿ‘‡

๐Ÿพ These homemade dog treats came out crispy, golden, and full of flavor – and it’s not just the ingredients, itโ€™s how you bake them.
If you want to get perfect, bakery-style dog treats every time, I highly recommend this Veganize Baking Mastery eBook.๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿ‘‡

Veganize Baking 

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the treats cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re fully cooled, they’re ready to be served to your pup!

Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats

As much as your dog will likely beg for more, portion control is important! The size of the treats should be based on your dog’s size. For smaller dogs, break the treats into bite-sized pieces. For larger dogs, you can serve the whole treat as-is.

Storage Tips

To keep your dog treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them out before serving.

Nutritional Values Estimated

These treats are loaded with nutrients! Here’s an approximate breakdown per treat:

  • Calories: 40-50 calories per treat (depending on size)
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 1g

These values will vary based on the exact ingredients you use and the size of the treats, but you’re looking at a low-calorie snack that’s rich in fiber, making it perfect for digestion and keeping your dog feeling full and satisfied.

Tips for Perfect Treats

  • If your dough is too sticky, dust it with a little more flour to make it easier to roll out.
  • If you want your treats to be a little crispier, you can leave them in the oven for a few extra minutes. Just make sure not to burn them!

Safety Notes

Avoid using sugary or spicy pumpkin or anything with added sugars or preservatives. Always read ingredient labels carefully!

Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs

Pumpkin is fantastic for dogs because it’s full of fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps things moving. It’s also a great source of vitamins A and C, which are great for their immune system and skin.

Carrots are equally fantastic they’re low-calorie, rich in beta-carotene, and they help with oral health due to their crunchy texture. Combined, these ingredients make for a treat that’s both healthy and delicious.

Trouble Shooting: Recipe Didn’t Work After Following Guide Above

So, you’ve followed the steps for the Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats recipe, but something didn’t quite turn out as expected? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! There are a few common challenges that can pop up, but luckily, there’s always a fix.

Dough Too Sticky? If the dough is sticking to your hands or the rolling pin, it’s probably too wet. Simply add a bit more flour (I recommend oat flour for a smoother texture) until it becomes more manageable. Just don’t go overboard, or your treats might end up too dry!

Dough Too Dry? If the dough isn’t coming together and is falling apart, you’ve probably added a bit too much flour. A quick fix is to add a spoonful of pumpkin puree at a time until the dough becomes more pliable. It’ll be a bit sticky, but that’s okay!

Treats Too Soft After Baking? If your dog treats turned out soft instead of crisp, they likely needed a few extra minutes in the oven. Just pop them back in for a little while longer (5-10 minutes should do the trick), but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Health Concerns: Avoiding Harmful Ingredients In This Recipe

Making your own dog treats is a great way to ensure your pup is getting only the best ingredients, but it’s still important to watch out for potential pitfalls. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re whipping up these treats:

No Added Sugar: Avoid using pumpkin puree with added sugar or spices. Pumpkin pie filling often comes with sweeteners and other spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, which aren’t safe for dogs. Stick to plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree.

Avoid Artificial Sweeteners: Certain artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, can be toxic to dogs, so make sure none of your ingredients contain them. Always check labels carefully, especially when using store-bought items like peanut butter.

Watch for Allergies: If your dog has a grain allergy, make sure to choose a grain-free flour like almond or chickpea flour instead of whole wheat or oat flour. And, of course, always make sure the pumpkin is safe for your dog most pups are just fine with it, but it’s always worth double-checking.

Cost: How Affordable is this Recipe?

One of the best things about this recipe is how budget-friendly it is! Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

  • Pumpkin Puree: A can of pumpkin puree costs around $2-$3, and you’ll only need about half for one batch of treats, so that’s about $1.50 per batch.
  • Flour: A bag of oat flour usually costs around $5 and can be used for multiple batches of treats, making the cost of flour per batch less than $1.

When you compare this to store-bought treats that can cost up to $10 for a bag, homemade dog treats are super affordable. Plus, they’re made with love, so your dog will appreciate them even more!

Convenience of this Recipe: How Simple is it to Make?

Let’s face it, the last thing you want is a complicated recipe that leaves you feeling frustrated. That’s why this Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats recipe is perfect. It’s quick, simple, and doesn’t require fancy equipment or a long list of ingredients.

In just about 30 minutes (prep and baking time combined), you can have a batch of fresh, healthy treats ready to serve your dog. No need for special skills or hard-to-find ingredients—just grab what you have in your kitchen, mix, roll, cut, bake, and voilà! Your pup will be in heaven.

Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad?

Homemade treats don’t last forever, but if you store them properly, they’ll stay fresh for a decent amount of time. Here’s how to keep them at their best:

  • Room Temperature: In an airtight container, your dog treats will last up to 1 week at room temperature. Just make sure the container is sealed to keep them fresh.
  • Freezing: Want them to last longer? Freeze your treats! They’ll stay good for up to 3 months when stored in a freezer-safe container or bag. Just take them out when you’re ready to serve, and let them thaw before giving them to your dog.

Will All Dogs Like This Recipe?

While most dogs will love these treats (who wouldn’t want pumpkin and carrot goodness?), every dog is different. Some dogs might not be as fond of the pumpkin flavor, so if your dog isn’t a fan, try using a little less pumpkin and more carrots, or even add a dash of natural peanut butter to make the flavor more appealing.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, start with a smaller portion to ensure they don’t have any negative reactions to the new ingredients.

Safe Alternatives for Ingredients Used in This Recipe

While this recipe calls for pumpkin puree and oat flour, there are several safe and dog-friendly alternatives if needed:

  • Flour Alternatives: If your dog can’t handle oats or wheat, you can substitute with almond flour, chickpea flour, or even rice flour.
  • Pumpkin Alternatives: If pumpkin isn’t available or your dog doesn’t like it, you can use sweet potato puree or even carrot puree. Both are rich in nutrients and safe for dogs.
  • Add-ins: If you want to boost the nutritional value, try adding a spoonful of peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free), flaxseed meal, or even coconut oil for an extra health kick.

Cooking Techniques That Will Work for This Recipe: Baking, Freezing, or Dehydrating

When making these treats, baking is your best bet. Baking helps set the treats, giving them that crunchy texture that dogs love. Just be sure to bake at a moderate temperature and check for doneness to avoid burning.

You can also dehydrate the treats if you have a dehydrator. This method works well, especially for getting treats that are crunchy and shelf-stable. If you do decide to dehydrate, ensure the treats are small and thin so they dry evenly.

Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much?

Just because these treats are healthy doesn’t mean you should let your dog devour them all in one go. Treats should be given in moderation, especially if they’re not part of your dog’s regular diet.

For small dogs, one or two treats per day is plenty. For larger dogs, you can give them 3-4 treats, but always keep their daily calorie intake in mind. These treats are low in calories, but it’s easy to overfeed if you’re giving them multiple treats throughout the day.

Can I use other flours for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute oat flour with almond flour, chickpea flour, or whole wheat flour. However, note that whole wheat flour can be harder for some dogs to digest, so I recommend using it as a second choice.

How do I know if my dog is allergic to any of the ingredients?

The best way to know if your dog is allergic is to start with a small portion of the treat. Wait 24-48 hours and watch for any signs of digestive upset, skin irritation, or changes in behavior. If you notice anything unusual, discontinue the treats and consult your vet.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to this recipe?

It’s best to avoid spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. While cinnamon is generally safe in small amounts, nutmeg can be toxic to dogs. Stick to the simple, wholesome ingredients in the recipe for the best results.

Final Thoughts

So yeah, that’s the Easy 2 Ingredient Dog Treats recipe! It doesn’t have to be complicated to make healthy, delicious treats for your dog if you follow the simple steps I’ve shared.

Now Iโ€™d love to hear from you.

Have you tried making homemade treats for your dog before?
If so, how did your dog like them?
Let me know in the comments below!

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