πΆβ¨ If youβve ever felt unsure about what kind of treats are truly healthy and safe for your pup, youβre not alone! Thatβs why I’m super excited to share this wholesome, easy-to-make recipe with you.
Peanut Butter Coconut Oil and Pumpkin No-Bake Dog Treats ππ₯₯π₯. These are not just tasty, they’re packed with nutrients your pup actually needs, and the best part? You don’t even need to turn on your oven π₯π.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything — from why this recipe is paws-down amazing, to how to make it, how to store it, and even how much to feed. π Letβs dive into this drool-worthy recipe together, shall we?
Why This Specific Recipe is Worth Making πΎ
This recipe isnβt your average dog treat recipe. Nope. It’s a powerhouse of nutrition designed with your dog’s overall wellness in mind. While many commercial dog treats are packed with artificial fillers, mystery meat, and preservatives π«, this recipe keeps it clean and simple β .
What makes it truly special?
- No baking required β±οΈ – just mix, mold, and freeze!
- Tailored for canine digestion π – using only dog-safe, vet-recommended ingredients.
- Super customizable – easily tweak ingredients to suit allergies or sensitivities.
- Packed with benefits – healthy fats, plant-based protein, omega-3s, and fiber.
It’s a perfect blend of flavor, function, and fun — and yes, even the pickiest pups have gobbled them up! ππΆ
Recipe: Peanut Butter Coconut Oil and Pumpkin No-Bake Dog Treats π―π₯₯π
Prep Time & Cook Time π
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: Approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes
Tools Needed π οΈ
- Mixing bowl π₯£
- Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl π²
- Silicone molds (bone-shaped or paws are super cute!) πΎ
- Spatula π΄
- Freezer βοΈ
Alternative Tip: No silicone mold? Use an ice cube tray or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Ingredients Needed π
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these nutritious goodies:
- π₯₯ 1 cup coconut oil – packed with MCTs and healthy fats to support skin, coat, and brain health.
- π 3/4 cup canned pumpkin (pure, not pie filling!) – loaded with fiber, beta-carotene, and digestive benefits.
- π₯ 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (must be xylitol-free!) – a great source of protein and healthy fat.
- π 1 tsp maple syrup (optional) – adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- π° 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional) – contains anti-inflammatory properties.
- πΎ 1 1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional) – full of omega-3s and fiber to support gut and joint health.
Allergy-Friendly Alternatives:
- Swap peanut butter with almond butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free).
- For sensitive pups, omit cinnamon or maple syrup altogether.
Yield: How Many Treats Will You Get? π
Using the measurements above and standard silicone molds, you’ll get about 25–30 small-sized treats, perfect for small to medium dogs.
β I personally got 28 bone-shaped treats using a regular silicone dog treat mold — enough to fill a sandwich bag! πΆ
Follow This Steps Closely To Make This Treat πΎ
First Step: Combine Ingredients Over Heat π₯
In a small saucepan over low heat, add your coconut oil, peanut butter, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, and flaxseed (if using). Stir slowly and consistently to blend everything together. The coconut oil will melt quickly, creating a smooth, golden mixture that smells amazing! π
Tip: You can also microwave the mix in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until fully melted.
Second Step: Let It Cool π§
Once the mixture is smooth and creamy, remove it from heat and let it cool for about a minute. You don’t want it to be piping hot when you pour it into molds.
Third Step: Fill the Molds π¬
Carefully pour the mixture into your silicone molds or a lined dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed. This step is fun and lets you get creative with the treat shapes — hearts, bones, paws, even stars β!
Alternative Technique: Pour into a shallow dish, freeze, and cut into small cubes with a knife or use mini cookie cutters for cute shapes.
Fourth Step: Freeze It βοΈ
Pop the molds into the freezer and let them sit for at least 1 hour. Once frozen, they’ll pop out easily and hold their shape perfectly.
Fifth Step: Serve and Watch the Tail Wags ππ
Once fully frozen, store the treats in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge or freezer. Serve chilled for a refreshing reward! π
Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats π½οΈ
Here’s a good serving guide:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 treat per day
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 treats per day
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): 2–3 treats per day
β οΈ Treats should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Nutritional Values Estimated π
Let’s break down the approximate nutritional content per treat (based on 30 pieces):
- Calories: 45–55
- Fat: 4g (mostly healthy fats)
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Carbs: 2g
- Omega-3s: High (thanks to flaxseed & coconut oil)
These treats offer a great balance of protein, healthy fat, and fiber — perfect for an active pup! πΆπͺ
Dietary Suitability/Check list β β
| Dietary Concern | Suitable? |
|---|---|
| β Grain-Free | Yes (no flour used) |
| β Low-Sugar | Yes (natural sugars only) |
| β Hypoallergenic | Yes (if no known allergies to pumpkin or peanut butter) |
| β Low-Fat | No (contains coconut oil and peanut butter) |
| β Vegetarian-Friendly | Yes |
Storage Tips π§πͺ
Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad? β³
- Fridge: Up to 7 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Lasts up to 3 months
Label your container with the date so you know when to use them up. These are best served chilled! π§π
Tips for Perfecting This Treats π οΈ
- β Use silicone molds for easy release
- β Make a double batch and freeze for convenience
- β Add a spoon of plain Greek yogurt for a probiotic boost
- β Always stir well to distribute ingredients evenly
Safety Notes: Pro Tip π§ π¨
Safe Swaps for Ingredients Use In This Recipe π
- β Avoid peanut butter with xylitol – deadly for dogs
- β Almond butter (unsweetened) can be used instead
- β Don’t use pumpkin pie filling – contains sugar and spices
- β Use plain canned pumpkin only
- β Skip cinnamon if your dog has sensitive digestion
Always consult your vet before introducing a new ingredient, especially for dogs with allergies.
The Health Benefits of Main Ingredients in the Treat πͺπ
- π₯ Peanut Butter – high in protein and healthy fats
- π₯₯ Coconut Oil – supports brain function, skin health, and energy
- π Pumpkin – aids digestion and is rich in fiber and beta-carotene
- πΎ Flaxseed – packed with omega-3 fatty acids for joint health
- π° Cinnamon – may reduce inflammation and help regulate blood sugar
These ingredients combine to make a wholesome and functional snack — far from the generic store-bought stuff.
My Pup’s Reaction (and Yours Will Be Similar!) πΆπ¬
When I first gave these to my pup, he did the spin, sit, and shake routine without even being asked — that’s how much he wanted more πβ€οΈ. The smell, the texture, the flavor — he was obsessed.
And based on feedback from friends, every pup that tried these had the same happy response — tail wags, drool, and excitement! Yours will too πβ¨
Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs π§ͺπΎ
- Vet-approved ingredients like pumpkin and coconut oil are known to aid **digestion
**, skin health, and overall immunity.
- No preservatives, additives, or artificial sweeteners.
- Recommended by vets as safe occasional treats when used in moderation.
Trouble Shooting: Recipe Didnβt Work After Following Guide Above βπ§
- Mixture too oily? Try reducing coconut oil slightly or mix longer to emulsify.
- Treats not setting? Make sure your freezer is cold enough; freeze longer.
- Sticking to molds? Use silicone molds or lightly spray with dog-safe oil.
Health Concerns You Should Take Note Of π«π©Ί
- Never use peanut butter with xylitol. It is extremely toxic to dogs.
- Avoid nutmeg, sugar, and salt in any homemade treat.
- Some dogs may have peanut or pumpkin sensitivities — always do a small test first.
Cost: How Affordable is This Recipe? πΈπΎ
Super budget-friendly!
- Coconut oil, pumpkin, and peanut butter are pantry staples for many pet parents.
- Total cost for 30 treats: less than $5 π°
- That’s $0.17 per treat, compared to $0.50–$1.00 per store-bought treat.
Convenience: How Simple is it to Make This Recipe? π§π«π₯
- No baking, no complex steps — just melt, mix, pour, freeze.
- Great for busy pet parents or beginners in the kitchen.
Will All Dogs Like This Recipe? πΆπ
While most pups love it, some might need a few tries to adjust.
Tip: If your dog’s unsure, sprinkle a little crushed dog biscuit or crumble bacon bits on top the first time.
Cooking Techniques That Will Work For This Recipe π₯π¬οΈ
- βοΈ Freezing: Ideal for no-bake recipes like this one.
- π₯ Baking (if flour is added): Can bake at 325°F for 15–20 mins until firm.
- π¬οΈ Dehydrating: Extend shelf life, especially if you add oats or flour.
Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much? βοΈπΎ
Stick to the 10% rule — treats shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily intake.
- Monitor weight, activity level, and overall health
- Always serve as supplementary to a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestion π½οΈπ―
Perfect as:
- π Training rewards
- πΆ Post-walk energy bites
- π Gifts in pup party bags!
But remember — not a meal replacement!
FAQs Section βπΎ
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter for dog treats?
Yes, as long as it’s unsweetened and xylitol-free, almond butter is a safe and tasty alternative!
Are there any health benefits to using pumpkin in dog treats?
Absolutely! Pumpkin is rich in fiber and beta-carotene, which helps with digestion and supports immune health.
What are some creative shapes I can use for no-bake dog treats?
You can use silicone molds shaped like bones, paws, hearts, or stars. Cookie cutters and ice cube trays also work great!
Final Thoughts ππ
See how easy and fun it was? π₯° These Peanut Butter Coconut Oil and Pumpkin No-Bake Dog Treats are the perfect way to show your furry friend some love while boosting their health naturally. ππ₯π₯₯
So go ahead — try making a batch today. Your dog will love you for it (even more than they already do!) πΎπ
Let me know how it goes, and don’t forget to share your treat pics! πΈπΆ
