There’s something incredibly wholesome about making treats for your pup at home πΆπ. Not only do you know exactly what’s going into them, but you also get to sprinkle in a little extra love (and maybe a few extra licks too π).
Today, I’m going to show you exactly how to make my favorite Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe, a delicious and healthy frozen snack your dog will go absolutely bananas (or pumpkins? π) for!
These aren’t your average dog treats… nope! They’re creamy, icy, protein-packed goodies that are perfect for hot days or just as a fun reward. And the best part? They’re made from real, vet-approved ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s get wagginβ!
Why This Specific Recipe Is Worth Making π§‘π
This isn’t just another random treat recipe from the depths of the internet. Nope. I picked Recipe #4: Pumpkin Peanut Butter Frozen Dog Treats from my research because it’s already tested, trusted, and pup-approved β . It’s no-bake (YES!), requires only a few wholesome ingredients, and it’s perfect for dogs with sensitive tummies πΎ.
Not only that—but I’ve enhanced it using nutritionally dense additions to give your pup a full spectrum of healthy fats, protein, omega-3s, and natural carbs, without messing with the original formula that pet parents already love π₯β¨.
π Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Peanut Butter Frozen Dog Bites π§πΎ
β± Prep Time & Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freeze Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: Around 2 hours (hands-on time is minimal!)
π Tools Needed:
- Mixing bowl π₯£
- Whisk or hand mixer (optional for smoother texture) π
- Silicone molds or ice cube trays (paws or bone shapes are fun! πΎ)
- Spatula
- Freezer space βοΈ
Alternatives: If you don’t have silicone molds, you can use small paper cupcake liners or even a mini muffin tin.
π§Ύ Ingredients Needed:
Each one is carefully selected to offer nutritional benefits like protein, healthy fats, fiber, and omega-3s! πΆπͺ
- π₯ ½ cup pure pumpkin puree (100% pumpkin, not pie filling!) – rich in fiber, vitamin A & antioxidants
- π₯ ½ cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt – loaded with probiotics & protein
- π₯ 2 tablespoons natural unsalted peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free) – source of protein & healthy fats
- β¨ 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed – omega-3 fatty acids and fiber booster
- β¨ ½ teaspoon chia seeds (optional but adds protein & omega-3s)
- πΏ A pinch of cinnamon (optional) – adds flavor & anti-inflammatory benefits
Substitutions for Allergies:
- Greek yogurt → lactose-free yogurt or unsweetened coconut yogurt
- Peanut butter → sunflower seed butter or almond butter (if dog-safe!)
- Pumpkin → mashed sweet potato
π― How Many Treats This Makes:
Using these exact measurements and paw-shaped silicone molds, I made 18 medium-sized treats πΎ, about the size of a large coin. This easily fills a small treat bag or one tray of silicone molds.
You may get slightly more or fewer depending on the mold size, but expect 15–20 pieces in total.
π Follow This Steps Closely To Make This Treat
π₯£ First Step: Combine the Core Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and peanut butter π―. Use a whisk or spatula to blend everything together until smooth and creamy π. This will be the creamy base that your pup will drool over (literally!).
ππ¦Ί Second Step: Add the Superfood Boosters
Sprinkle in the ground flaxseed and chia seeds π±. Stir well until everything is fully mixed and there are no lumps. The flax and chia will slightly thicken the mixture, which also helps the treats set nicely in the freezer.
Optional: Add a tiny pinch of cinnamon for flavor and extra health perks β¨.
π§ Third Step: Pour Into Molds
Carefully spoon the mixture into your chosen molds π§. Use a spatula to level off the tops if needed. Try not to overfill—these freeze better when they’re neat and even. Wipe away any spills on the edges for easier popping later.
βοΈ Fourth Step: Freeze!
Place the molds into your freezer and let them sit for at least 1–2 hours β³. For best results, freeze overnight for that perfect firm texture. Once solid, pop the treats out and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
πΆ Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats
- π Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 treat per day
- ππ¦Ί Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 treats per day
- π© Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 2–3 treats per day
Always supervise your pup when trying new treats and adjust serving sizes based on activity level and weight.
𧬠Nutritional Values Estimated (Per Treat)
- Calories: ~15–20 kcal
- Protein: 1–2g
- Fat: 1.5g (from PB, yogurt, and seeds)
- Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Omega-3s: 300–400mg (thanks to flax & chia!)
β Dietary Suitability Checklist
- β Low-fat (when given in moderation)
- β Grain-free
- β Lactose-light (if using Greek yogurt)
- β Hypoallergenic if peanut-free version is used
- β Not suitable for dogs allergic to dairy or seeds unless substitutions are made
π§ Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh & Frozen!
β³ Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad?
These frozen treats stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer π§. Just keep them in an airtight container or zip-lock bag to avoid freezer burn. Donβt thaw or refrigerate—the texture gets mushy π« .
π Tips for Perfecting These Treats
- Use silicone molds for easy pop-outs π
- Stir in bits of banana or blueberries for added flavor ππ«
- Don’t skip the flax or chia—they help solidify the treats and boost nutrition
- Whip the mixture with a hand mixer if you want a fluffier texture
β οΈ Safety Notes: Ingredients to Be Cautious With
π Safe Swaps for Ingredients Used in This Recipe:
- Peanut Butter: Always check labels for xylitol, a deadly sweetener for dogs. Sub with sunflower seed butter π»
- Greek Yogurt: Use plain, unsweetened only. No additives, flavors, or sweeteners
- Pumpkin: Never use pumpkin pie filling—it contains sugars and spices toxic to dogs
- Cinnamon: Use Ceylon cinnamon in small amounts, never nutmeg!
π The Health Benefits of Main Ingredients in the Treat
- Pumpkin: A digestion hero! Helps with constipation and diarrhea π©
- Greek Yogurt: Adds probiotics for gut health, plus calcium & protein
- Peanut Butter: Healthy fats & protein; perfect for energy
- Flaxseed: Rich in omega-3s for a shiny coat and healthy skin πΎ
- Chia Seeds: Protein-packed with fiber and minerals like magnesium
- Cinnamon: Natural anti-inflammatory—great for aging pups πΆ
πΎ My Pup’s Reaction (and Yours Will Be Similar!)
Let me tell you, when I first gave this to my dog, he didn’t even sniff it—he straight-up inhaled it π. Tail wagging, paw begging, sitting pretty—all within 10 seconds of opening the freezer.
Even picky eaters seem to love the creamy texture and cooling sensation π. Yours might lick it slowly or crunch it fast—but either way, youβre gonna see happy zoomies!
β Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs
- All ingredients are vet-recommended or approved in moderation β
- Greek yogurt helps with digestion
- Pumpkin is excellent for gut balance
- Peanut butter is rich in essential fats but must be xylitol-free
- Omega-3s from seeds are crucial for coat health, brain function, and inflammation reduction
β Trouble Shooting: Recipe Didnβt Work After Following Guide Above
- Mixture too thin? Add a bit more pumpkin or a spoon of oats to thicken
- Treats not freezing properly? Your freezer may be too full or not cold enough
- Hard to pop from mold? Let sit at room temp for 1–2 minutes or dip mold bottom in warm water
π©Ί Health Concerns You Should Take Note Of
- Avoid nutmeg or spice mixes
- **Never use sweetened yogurt or flavored peanut butters
- Introduce new treats slowly to spot food sensitivities
- Not every dog tolerates dairy or seeds—monitor closely
π² Cost: How Affordable is this Recipe?
Very affordable! Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Pumpkin puree (1 can): $7
- Greek yogurt (1 cup): $10
- Natural PB: $12
- Flax + chia (bulk): ~$5 per batch
Total: Under $40 for batch treats πΈ
β³ Convenience: How Simple is it to Make This Recipe?
No baking β
No kneading β
Takes less than 10 minutes to prep β
Honestly, one of the easiest homemade dog recipes you’ll find π―.
π Will All Dogs Like This Recipe?
Most do! If your dog likes peanut butter or yogurt, this one’s a slam dunk. Texture-sensitive dogs might need thinner portions or smaller sizes to start.
π₯ Cooking Techniques That Work for This Recipe
Since this recipe involves Greek yogurt, the best options are:
- Freezing β
- Dehydrating or baking is not suitable unless modified with flour
π― Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much?
Treats should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Use small sizes for training or frequent rewards π
Always consider age, weight, and activity level.
π¬ Serving Suggestion:
- πΎ Training rewards (perfect size and non-messy!)
- πΎ Cool-down treat on hot days
- πΎ After-bath treat as a reward
Do NOT replace regular meals. These are supplements, not complete food.
β FAQs Section
How can I make these treats more appealing to picky eaters?
Try adding a bit of mashed banana π or some shredded chicken for a savory twist.
Are there any variations that use different nut butters?
Yes! Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter (unsweetened, unsalted). Avoid anything with xylitol β.
Can I use these treats as a reward during training sessions?
Absolutely! They’re perfect for positive reinforcement—especially in summer π.
What are some tips for making the treats crisper?
Since they’re frozen, they won’t get crispy. But you can mix in ground oats to give them more structure if youβd like!
πΆ Final Thoughts
Now you can see why this Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe is such a hit π. It’s healthy, affordable, ridiculously easy, and lets you control every single ingredient going into your dog’s tummy.
Whether your furry friend is a picky eater or a snack monster, this recipe is sure to be a staple in your freezer. Try it today, and don’t forget to give your pup some extra belly rubs for being such a good taste tester! πΎπ
Let me know how your pup likes it! πΆπ
