10 Best Pumpkin Dog Treats Recipes: You Should Be Making For Your Dog.

What better way to show your love than with homemade pumpkin dog treats? These delicious and nutritious snacks offer numerous benefits for your canine companion.

From promoting digestive health to providing essential vitamins, pumpkin-based treats are a fantastic addition to your dog’s diet.

In this comprehensive guide, I will show you nine mouthwatering pumpkin dog treat recipes that will have your pup begging for more.

You will also get feeding guidelines, dosage limits, and breed-specific considerations for each recipe.

1. Easy Dog Treats with Pumpkin

These simple pumpkin dog treats are perfect for busy pet parents who want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a batch of tasty treats ready in no time.

Recipe 1 : Basic Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (xylitol-free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, egg, and peanut butter until well combined.
3. Gradually add the whole wheat flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes, or simply cut the dough into small squares.
6. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guide

The number of treats you give your dog depends on their size and weight. As a general rule:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day

Dosage Limit

While these treats are healthy, they should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Stick to the recommended serving sizes to avoid overfeeding.

When to Give and When Not To

These treats are great for:

• Training rewards
• Special occasions
• After a long walk or play session

Avoid giving treats:

• Right before or after meals
• When your dog is feeling unwell
• As a substitute for regular meals

Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

These pumpkin treats are generally safe for most dog breeds. However, if your dog has any specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats.

Recipe 2: Oatmeal Pumpkin Dog Treats

These oatmeal pumpkin dog treats combine the goodness of pumpkin with the fiber-rich benefits of oatmeal. They’re not only easy to make but also pack a nutritional punch for your furry friend.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse the oats until they reach a flour-like consistency.
3. Add the pumpkin puree and water to the oat flour, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into small balls or flatten into cookie shapes.
5. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guide

Adjust the number of treats based on your dog’s size:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day

Dosage Limit

These treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount, consult your veterinarian.

When to Give and When Not To

Ideal times for these treats include:

• After a walk or exercise session
• During training sessions
• As an occasional reward for good behavior

Avoid giving treats:

• If your dog has shown signs of food sensitivities
• When your dog is not feeling well
• In place of regular meals

Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

These oatmeal pumpkin treats are generally safe for most breeds. However, if your dog has a history of grain sensitivities, you may want to consult with your vet before introducing oats into their diet.

Recipe 3 : Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats

This classic pumpkin and peanut butter combination is a crowd-pleaser among dogs. The recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your pup’s preferences.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour choose either whole wheat flour or oat flour
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup dog-safe peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and peanut butter until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or simply cut the dough into small squares.
6. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guide

Use this guide based on your dog’s size:

• Toy breeds (under 10 lbs): 1 treat per day
• Small breeds (10-20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day
• Medium breeds (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day
• Large breeds (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day

Dosage Limit

These should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. If you’re using them for training, break them into smaller pieces to avoid overfeeding.

When to Give and When Not To

These treats are great for:

• Rewarding good behavior
• During training sessions
• As an occasional special treat

Avoid giving treats:

• If your dog has shown signs of peanut allergies
• When your dog is on a restricted diet
• As a substitute for regular meals

Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

While most dogs love peanut butter and pumpkin, some may have sensitivities. Always introduce new treats gradually and watch for any adverse reactions. If your dog has a history of pancreatitis, consult your vet before giving treats high in fat.

Recipe 4: 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats

Sometimes, less is more. This simple three-ingredient recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make delicious, healthy dog treats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter with xylitol-free
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 cups whole wheat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter and pumpkin puree until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
6. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
8. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guide

Adjust the number of treats based on your dog’s size:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day

Dosage Limit

These treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. If you’re using them for training, break them into smaller pieces to control portion sizes.

When to Give and When Not To

Ideal times for these treats include:

• During training sessions
• As a reward for good behavior
• After a long walk or play session

Avoid giving treats:

• If your dog has shown signs of peanut allergies
• When your dog is on a weight management plan
• As a replacement for regular meals

Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

While most dogs can enjoy these treats, breeds prone to weight gain should be given smaller portions. Always monitor your dog’s reaction to new treats and consult your vet if you have any concerns.

Recipe 5 : Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats

For those hot summer days or when you simply don’t want to turn on the oven, these no-bake frozen pumpkin treats are a perfect choice. They’re refreshing, easy to make, and sure to be a hit with your furry friend.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain yogurt non-fat and unsweetened
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and pumpkin puree until well blended.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Pop the treats out of the molds and serve.

Feeding Guide

Due to the cold nature of these treats, limit the quantity:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 treat per day
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 to 2 treats per day
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 2 to 3 treats per day

Dosage Limit

As these treats are mostly water-based, they’re lower in calories. However, still limit them to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

When to Give and When Not To

These treats are perfect for:

• Hot summer days
• After vigorous exercise
• As a cooling reward

Avoid giving these treats:

• In cold weather
• If your dog has sensitive teeth
• When your dog is feeling unwell

Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

Most dogs can enjoy these frozen treats. However, breeds with short snouts (like Bulldogs or Pugs) may have difficulty eating frozen treats and should be supervised. Also, if your dog is lactose intolerant, you may want to use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Recipe 6: Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats

Combining the goodness of pumpkin with the natural sweetness of applesauce, these treats offer a delightful flavor profile that dogs love. They’re also packed with fiber and vitamins.

Example Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and applesauce until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
6. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
8. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guide

Adjust the number of treats based on your dog’s size:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day

Dosage Limit

These treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. If you’re using them for training, break them into smaller pieces to control portions.

When to Give and When Not To

These treats are great for:

• Rewarding good behavior
• During training sessions
• As an occasional snack

Avoid giving treats:

• If your dog has shown signs of apple or wheat sensitivities
• When your dog is on a restricted diet
• As a substitute for regular meals

Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

Most dogs can enjoy these treats. However, if your dog has a history of grain sensitivities or diabetes, consult with your vet before introducing new treats containing wheat flour or fruit.

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Recipe 7: Pumpkin and Banana Bites

These pumpkin and banana bites are soft, sweet, and perfect for dogs of all sizes. They offer a nutritious boost while being gentle on the stomach, thanks to the natural fiber in pumpkin and the sweetness of ripe bananas.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana and pumpkin puree until smooth.

Slowly add the oat flour, mixing as you go, until you achieve a thick dough-like consistency. If you’re using an egg, add it at this stage for extra binding power. Sprinkle in the optional cinnamon for a bit of flavor, but make sure it’s dog-safe!

Once the dough is ready, use your hands to roll small bite-sized balls or flatten them into little cookies, depending on what your dog prefers.

Arrange them on the baking sheet with enough space between each. Bake the treats for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and firm to the touch. Let them cool completely before offering them to your pup.

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Feeding Guide

Pumpkin and banana bites are a soft treat, making them ideal for puppies and senior dogs. Because they are soft, they can also be easily broken into smaller pieces for training sessions.

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Dosage Limit

While these treats are healthy, moderation is key. Depending on your dog’s size, limit the intake to about 1-3 bites a day to avoid digestive upset or excessive calorie intake.

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When to Give and When Not To

These treats can be given during training, as a reward after a walk, or as a small snack in between meals. Avoid giving them right before a meal or if your dog has had enough calories for the day. Also, if your dog has allergies to oats or bananas, this may not be the best option.

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Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

Yes, pumpkin and banana bites are suitable for most dog breeds. However, if your dog has any specific allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s always best to check with your vet before introducing new treats.

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Recipe 8: Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Chews

Sweet potatoes and pumpkins together create a treat that is rich in vitamins and fiber. These chews are perfect for dogs that love a good, chewy snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 cup mashed sweet potato
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon high quality olive oil
• 1/4 cup water (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Start by steaming or boiling your sweet potato until it’s soft enough to mash. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and mashed sweet potato together.

Add the olive oil and mix thoroughly. Gradually stir in the whole wheat flour, creating a dough. If the mixture seems too dry, slowly add water until you achieve a slightly sticky dough.

Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. You can use cookie cutters or simply cut the dough into strips or small squares.

Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes until they harden. The longer they bake, the chewier they will become. Once they are cooled, your dog can enjoy them!

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Feeding Guide

Pumpkin and sweet potato chews are a bit firmer, making them great for dogs that like to chew. They can also help with teeth cleaning due to their texture.

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Dosage Limit

Stick to around 1-2 chews per day, especially for smaller dogs. Larger breeds may enjoy more, but be mindful of their overall caloric intake.

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When to Give and When Not To

These chews are great as a long-lasting reward or a special treat after physical activities like walks or playtime. However, avoid giving them to dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities to sweet potatoes.

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Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

Yes, pumpkin and sweet potato chews are a nutritious option for most breeds. But keep in mind that smaller breeds may need smaller portions, and dogs with grain sensitivities should avoid treats made with wheat flour.

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Recipe 9: Pumpkin and Carrot Crunchers

Carrots and pumpkins make an excellent pair in this crunchy treat. It’s full of vitamins and fiber, perfect for dogs who enjoy a good, crunchy snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 2 cups rice flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and grated carrots. Add the rolled oats and rice flour, stirring until the mixture comes together into a dough.

If you prefer, add an egg to help bind the dough or a spoonful of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to shape the dough into fun shapes or simply cut it into squares.

Place the treats on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crunchy. Let them cool completely before serving.

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Feeding Guide

These crunchy treats are excellent for dogs that love something crispy to nibble on. They are firm enough to last a few bites, so they work well for dogs who like to chew.

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Dosage Limit

Like all treats, keep these in moderation. For small dogs, 1-2 crunchers a day is ideal, while larger dogs can have up to 3-4.

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When to Give and When Not To

Pumpkin and carrot crunchers can be given as a daily snack, a training reward, or a special treat. They are not ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities, but you can adjust the recipe to make it grain-free if needed.

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Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

Yes, this treat is great for most breeds. However, if your dog has trouble chewing harder treats or has any grain allergies, consider a softer option like the pumpkin and banana bites.

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Recipe 10: Pumpkin and Blueberry Bark

This recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the nutritious benefits of pumpkin. Blueberries are a powerful antioxidant, making this treat not only tasty but also healthy for your pup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries or frozen blueberries if fresh isn’t available)
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 tablespoon quality coconut oil
• 1/4 cup water (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and coconut oil. Stir in the almond flour gradually until it forms a thick dough.

Gently fold in the blueberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Add water if necessary to ensure the dough is moist but not too sticky.

Spread the dough evenly onto a lined baking sheet, pressing it down until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Use a knife to score the dough into squares or rectangles so they’re easy to break apart after baking.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bark is firm but not too hard. Let it cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

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Feeding Guide

Pumpkin and blueberry bark is a versatile treat. You can break it into smaller pieces for training or offer larger chunks as a snack. It’s great for any time of the day!

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Dosage Limit

Limit this bark to about 1-2 pieces for small dogs and 3-4 pieces for larger breeds. Blueberries are healthy, but too many may upset your dog’s stomach.

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When to Give and When Not To

This bark is ideal as a treat after a long walk or play session. However, be cautious about giving it to dogs with nut allergies, as almond flour is a key ingredient.

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Is It Suitable for Every Dog Breed?

Pumpkin and blueberry bark is generally suitable for most dogs. However, if your dog has a nut allergy, you’ll want to avoid this recipe or swap the almond flour for a dog-safe alternative like coconut flour.

Ingredients You Should Always Avoid When Making Homemade Dog Treats

While we’ve covered many delicious and safe pumpkin treat recipes, it’s crucial to know which ingredients to avoid when making homemade dog treats. Here’s a list of ingredients that can be harmful or even toxic to dogs:

1. Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is often found in sugar-free peanut butter and can be extremely toxic to dogs. Always check the label of your peanut butter to ensure it doesn’t contain xylitol.
2. Chocolate: All forms of chocolate contain theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues.
3. Grapes or raisins: These fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small quantities.

1. Onions or garlic: These ingredients can damage a dog’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia.
2. Avocado: Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
3. Macadamia nuts: These nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs.
4. Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs, potentially causing central nervous system depression.
5. Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, caffeine can be fatal to dogs if consumed in large quantities.

Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

Now that we’ve covered various pumpkin treat recipes and ingredients to avoid, let’s discuss why pumpkin is such a fantastic ingredient for dog treats:

1. Fiber-rich: Pumpkin is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help regulate bowel movements.
2. Vitamin A: This vitamin supports eye health and immune function in dogs.
3. Vitamin C: An antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
4. Beta-carotene: This antioxidant can help prevent certain types of cancer and support overall health.
5. Potassium: Essential for maintaining healthy muscle and nerve function.
6. Low in calories: Pumpkin is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for dogs on a weight management plan.
7. Moisture content: The high water content in pumpkin can help keep your dog hydrated.
8. Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in pumpkin seeds, these can help promote a healthy coat and skin.

Final Words…

Homemade pumpkin dog treats offer a delicious and nutritious way to show your furry friend some extra love. From simple no-bake recipes to more elaborate baked goods, there’s a pumpkin treat option for every dog and every skill level of pet chef.

Introduce new treats gradually and always monitor your dog for any adverse reactions. While pumpkin is generally safe and beneficial for most dogs, every pup is unique. If you have any concerns about incorporating pumpkin or any new ingredient into your dog’s diet, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian.