Who says healthy snacks are just for humans? ๐ If youโre like me, you want nothing but the best for your furry companion ๐พ and that includes what goes into their bellies! That’s why homemade peanut butter and pumpkin dog treats are the go-to in my kitchen.
Not only are they packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, but they’re also vet-approved, cost-effective, and crazy simple to whip up ๐๐ช.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: a tried-and-tested recipe, nutritional info, safe swaps, storage tips, and more. So grab your apron ๐ง๐ณ and your pup’s favorite cookie cutter, it’s treat time! ๐โจ
Why This Specific Recipe Is Worth Making ๐ฅ๐ถ
There are hundreds of dog treat recipes online, but this one checks all the boxes โ :
- Proven: It’s based on multiple vet-approved and AKC-featured recipes ๐ฉบ๐พ
- Balanced Nutrition: Delivers essential protein, fiber, omega-3s, vitamins, and carbs ๐ช๐ง
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you probably already have ๐ฉ๐ณ๐ซ
- Customizable: Can be adjusted to meet allergy or dietary needs without losing flavor ๐งพ๐
- Budget-Friendly: One batch costs less than a store-bought bag ๐ต๐พ
Plus — your dog will absolutely LOVE the taste ๐ฅ๐โค๏ธ. Trust me, mine does.
Recipe: Pumpkin Peanut Butter Power Bites ๐ช๐ฅ
Prep Time & Cook Time ๐
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
Tools Needed ๐ ๏ธ๐พ
- Mixing bowl ๐ฅฃ
- Rolling pin (or bottle) ๐ชต
- Dog bone or paw-shaped cookie cutters ๐พ
- Baking sheet ๐ง
- Parchment paper or silicone mat ๐
- Oven ๐ฝ๏ธ
๐ก No cookie cutters? No problem! Just slice into squares or use the rim of a glass.
Ingredients Needed ๐งพโจ
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling) ๐ – rich in fiber & beta-carotene
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) ๐ฅ – packed with protein & vitamin E
- 2 large eggs ๐ฅ – adds healthy fat and binding power
- 2 1/2 cups oat flour ๐พ – gentle on digestion, naturally gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional) ๐ฐ – omega-3s & fiber boost
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) ๐ฟ – adds a warming flavor (in small, safe amounts)
๐ Substitutions:
- Use almond flour or chickpea flour if avoiding oats
- Sweet potato puree can replace pumpkin
- Coconut oil can be swapped in place of peanut butter (equal ratio)
How Many Treats Will This Make? ๐งฎ๐ช
Using a standard 2-inch cookie cutter, this recipe yields 30–36 medium-sized treats ๐ถ๐ช.
With my batch, I made 34 bone-shaped treats — enough to fill an entire mason jar or treat bag!
Follow This Steps Closely To Make This Treat ๐ชโจ
First Step: Mix the Wet Ingredients ๐ฅ
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs. Stir or use an electric mixer until smooth and well blended. This creamy combo is your flavor-packed foundation ๐๐ฅ๐ฅ.
Second Step: Add Dry Ingredients ๐ฅฃ
Slowly add in the oat flour, cinnamon, and flaxseed (if using). Stir until a dough begins to form. It should be soft but not sticky — if it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour ๐พ.
Third Step: Roll and Shape the Dough ๐ช
Lightly flour a surface and roll out your dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes ๐พ. Your pup won’t judge the aesthetics — but admit it, cute shapes are irresistible!
Fourth Step: Bake the Treats ๐ฅ
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your treats evenly spaced. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown around the edges ๐ช๐.
For a softer treat, remove after 18–20 minutes. For a crunchier biscuit, let them go a bit longer (just don’t burn โem!).
Final Step: Cool Completely โ๏ธ
Allow your treats to cool on a wire rack before storing or feeding. Warm treats = tempting, but too hot can burn those excited little tongues ๐ถ๐ฅ.
Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats ๐ฝ๏ธ๐พ
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 small treat per day
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 treats
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): Up to 3 daily
These are treats, not meals! Use moderation ๐ฌ.
Nutritional Values Estimated ๐๐ถ
Per treat (approx.):
- Calories: 45 kcal
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 2g (healthy fats!)
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
๐ก All ingredients contribute to a balanced blend of muscle-supporting protein, digestive-friendly fiber, and healthy fats for energy and coat shine!
Dietary Suitability / Check List โ โ
- โ Grain-Free (if using oat, almond, or chickpea flour)
- โ Hypoallergenic if peanut butter is substituted
- โ High Fiber
- โ Low Sugar
- โ Not low-fat (contains healthy fats, but not suitable for fat-restricted diets)
Storage Tips ๐ง๐ซ
Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad? โณ
- Room Temp: 4–5 days in airtight container
- Fridge: Up to 10–12 days
- Freezer: Up to 6 months
Label your batches with the date so you always know whatโs fresh! ๐
Tips for Perfecting This Treats ๐ก๐ถ
- Use a silicone baking mat for even baking and no sticking
- For a glossier look, brush the treats with a beaten egg before baking ๐ฅโจ
- If dough is too sticky, chill for 15 minutes before rolling
- Add a tablespoon of crushed pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, nutritional bonus ๐พ
Safety Notes: Pro Tip for Sensitive Pups โ ๏ธ๐
Safe Swaps for Ingredients Use In This Recipe ๐
- Allergy to wheat? → Use oat, almond, or chickpea flour
- Peanut sensitivity? → Use sunflower butter or plain coconut oil
- Pumpkin out of stock? → Sweet potato is a perfect substitute
Never use peanut butter with xylitol — it’s toxic to dogs and can be deadly even in small amounts โ๐งช.
The Health Benefits of Main Ingredients ๐ช๐ถ
- ๐ฅ Peanut Butter: High in protein, healthy fats, vitamin B, and niacin
- ๐ Pumpkin Puree: Packed with fiber, vitamin A, and helps digestive health
- ๐พ Oat Flour: Great source of iron, fiber, and slow-release carbs
- ๐ฅ Eggs: Deliver amino acids, protein, and healthy cholesterol
- ๐ฐ Flaxseed: Provides omega-3s, fiber, and anti-inflammatory benefits
This recipe isn’t just tasty — it’s a functional food for dogs! ๐
My Pup’s Reaction (and Yours Will Be Similar!) ๐๐ฌ
When I gave my dog his first bite, he literally wagged in circles ๐. The smell alone had him drooling before they were even out of the oven. He now recognizes the baking sheet I use and parks himself by the oven until they cool ๐.
Every dog is different, but this combo? It’s a fan-favorite for even picky eaters ๐พโค๏ธ.
Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs ๐พ๐
- All the ingredients used are vet-recommended and approved by AKC ๐ถ
- They’re easy to digest and naturally free from harmful additives โ
- Protein (eggs, PB), fiber (pumpkin), and fats (PB, flaxseed) form a complete canine treat
Trouble Shooting: If Something Went Wrong ๐ฌ๐ ๏ธ
- Dough too sticky? → Add more flour and chill it before rolling
- Treats not holding shape? → Increase flour slightly or reduce pumpkin
- Too hard? → Bake less or add a spoon of applesauce to soften
Health Concerns to Watch For ๐จ๐ฝ๏ธ
- Avoid store-bought canned pumpkin pie filling — itโs full of sugar and spices
- Always check peanut butter labels — no xylitol!
- Introduce new treats slowly to avoid upsetting your dog’s tummy
Cost: How Affordable Is This Recipe? ๐ต๐ช
This recipe comes in under $5 for a batch of 30–40 treats, making it an affordable option compared to store-bought gourmet treats ๐. And, it’s so easy to make!
Convenience: How Simple Is It to Make This Recipe? ๐ง๐ณ
The process is straightforward: measure, mix, roll, cut, bake, and cool. It doesn’t take more than 45 minutes — and it’s all done from your kitchen with minimal clean-up ๐ช!
Will All Dogs Like This Recipe? ๐พโค๏ธ
Most dogs go crazy for peanut butter and pumpkin, but always test a small portion first! Especially with dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Cooking Techniques That Will Work for This Recipe ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฅ
This treat is best baked or dehydrated. Both methods preserve flavor and nutrients without using high-heat cooking methods that could damage the foodโs integrity.
Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much? โ๏ธ
Remember: treats are extras! They should not replace meals but be an occasional snack or training aid.
Serving Suggestion ๐ฝ๏ธ๐
Perfect as a training treat, a tasty snack after a walk, or a simple reward for being a good pup! ๐๐
FAQs โ
How long will homemade peanut butter pumpkin dog treats last?
- Answer: These treats will last 4-5 days at room temperature in an airtight container or 10-12 days in the fridge!
Can I freeze these dog treats?
- Answer: Yes! They can be frozen for up to 6 months. Just store them in an airtight bag or container.
Can I use another type of flour?
- Answer: Absolutely! You can use almond, chickpea, or whole wheat flour as alternatives. Just note, whole wheat is a bit tougher to digest.
Final Thoughts ๐ญ
This homemade peanut butter and pumpkin dog treat recipe is easy, delicious, and packed with all the good stuff your dog needs.
Whether youโre spoiling your pup or using these as training treats, I promise they’ll love them! Try it out today — you’ll both be wagging with joy! ๐พ๐
