3 Real Pumpkin Dog Treats Easy To Make: Tasty Homemade Snacks Your Pup Will Love

Throughout my years as a dog owner and treat maker, I’ve whipped up countless batches of homemade goodies for my furry friends. Some were total flops that had my pups turning up their noses, while others became instant hits that had tails wagging like crazy.

If you want to skip the store-bought stuff and treat your dog to something special, keep reading. In this post, you’ll learn how to make 3 easy, delicious pumpkin dog treats that are healthy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to make your pup’s day.

Why Choose Pumpkin for Dog Treats?

You might be wondering – why pumpkin? Well, it turns out this orange veggie is a powerhouse of nutrition for our four-legged friends. Here’s why pumpkin is such a great choice for homemade dog treats:

1. Packed with fiber: Pumpkin is loaded with fiber, which helps keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly. It can even help with both diarrhea and constipation.
2. Low in calories: If your pup needs to watch their waistline, pumpkin is a great option. It’s filling but doesn’t pack on the pounds.
3. Nutrient-rich: Pumpkin is chock-full of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like potassium and iron. These nutrients support your dog’s overall health.
4. Tasty flavor: Most dogs love the mild, slightly sweet taste of pumpkin. It’s a flavor that appeals to even picky eaters.
5. Versatile ingredient: Pumpkin mixes well with other dog-friendly foods, making it easy to create a variety of treats.

3 Easy Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipes

1. Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats

Let’s kick things off with a super simple recipe that’s perfect for hot days. These frozen treats will keep your pup cool and happy.

What you’ll need:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 cup plain, low-fat yogurt
• Ice cube tray or silicone mold

How to make it:

1. Mix the pumpkin puree and yogurt in a bowl until well combined.
2. Spoon the mixture into your ice cube tray or silicone mold.
3. Pop it in the freezer for about 4 hours or until solid.
4. Once frozen, pop out the treats and let your dog enjoy!

These treats are so easy to make, you might find yourself whipping up a batch every week. They’re great for keeping your pup hydrated and cool, especially during those dog days of summer.

2. Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats

Next up, we’ve got a recipe that combines two dog favorites – pumpkin and peanut butter. These treats are perfect for training rewards or just spoiling your furry friend.

What you’ll need:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol!)
• 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 egg

How to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg in a large bowl.
3. Gradually stir in the flour until you have a dough that’s not too sticky.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters (or just use a knife to cut squares).
6. Place on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before serving to your pup.

These treats smell so good, you might be tempted to try one yourself! They’re crunchy, tasty, and full of healthy ingredients your dog will love.

3. Oat-Based Pumpkin Dog Cookies

Our last recipe is for dogs who need a little extra fiber in their diet. These oat-based cookies are gentle on the stomach and packed with nutrients.

What you’ll need:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 egg
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but dogs love it!)

How to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, and egg.
3. Add the oats, flour, and cinnamon. Stir until you have a thick dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet.
5. Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork.
6. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.

These cookies are soft and chewy, making them perfect for older dogs or those with dental issues. Plus, the oats add an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.

How to Make Pumpkin Puree for Dog Treats?

To not stress about make your own pumpkin puree, you can just purchase Low sodium pumpkin puree online. But if you choose to go homemade the do this:

Now, you might be wondering – do I need to use canned pumpkin, or can I make my own puree? Good news: making your own pumpkin puree is super easy and often more cost-effective. Here’s how:

1. Choose a small sugar pumpkin (also called a pie pumpkin).
2. Cut it in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until soft.
5. Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh.
6. Blend in a food processor until smooth.

Voila! You’ve got homemade pumpkin puree. It’ll keep in the fridge for about a week, or you can freeze it in portions for future use.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Safely?

You bet they can! Pumpkin is not only safe for dogs, but it’s also super healthy. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Stick to plain pumpkin: Avoid giving your dog pumpkin pie filling or anything with added sugars or spices.
2. Watch the portion size: While pumpkin is healthy, too much of anything can upset your dog’s stomach. A good rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight per day.
3. Introduce it slowly: If your dog’s never had pumpkin before, start with a small amount to make sure they don’t have any adverse reactions.
4. Avoid the stem and leaves: These parts of the pumpkin can be irritating to dogs.
5. Don’t let them eat jack-o’-lanterns: These can grow mold quickly and make your dog sick.

As long as you follow these guidelines, pumpkin is a safe and healthy treat for most dogs. Of course, if you have any concerns, it’s always best to check with your vet first.

What Are the Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs?

Feeding your dog pumpkin can actually boost their health in several ways. Check out these awesome benefits:

Hydration: Pumpkin has high water content, which can help keep your dog hydrated.

Digestive health: The fiber in pumpkin can help regulate your dog’s digestive system. It’s great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to constipation or diarrhea.

Weight management: Pumpkin is low in calories but high in fiber, making it a filling treat that won’t contribute to weight gain. It’s perfect for pups on a diet!

Skin and coat health: The vitamins A and C in pumpkin support healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Eye health: Vitamin A is crucial for eye health, and pumpkin is loaded with it.

Immune system boost: The antioxidants in pumpkin can help support your dog’s immune system.

Urinary health: Pumpkin seeds (when ground up) contain oils that may support urinary health.

Tips for Storing Homemade Dog Treats

You’ve baked up a storm, and now you’ve got more treats than your dog can eat in one sitting (though they’d probably try if you let them!). Here’s how to keep those goodies fresh:

1. Cool completely: Before storing, make sure your treats are totally cool. This prevents condensation that can lead to mold.
2. Use airtight containers: Keep treats fresh by storing them in airtight containers or zip-top bags.
3. Refrigerate or freeze: Most homemade dog treats will last about a week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.
4. Label everything: Write the date you made the treats on the container so you know when to use them by.
5. Thaw properly: If you freeze your treats, thaw them in the fridge overnight before giving them to your dog.
6. Watch for signs of spoilage: If treats smell off or show any signs of mold, toss them out.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your homemade treats fresh and safe for your pup to enjoy.

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin for these recipes?

Absolutely! In fact, canned pumpkin can be a great time-saver. Just make sure you’re buying 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The canned stuff is just as nutritious as fresh, and it’s always ready to go when you need it.

If you’re using canned pumpkin, you might find it’s a bit wetter than homemade puree. If your dough seems too sticky, just add a bit more flour until you get the right consistency.

How Often Can I Give My Dog Pumpkin Treats?

While pumpkin is healthy, treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The rest should come from their regular, balanced diet.

For most dogs, that means they can have a pumpkin treat once or twice a day. But every dog is different, so pay attention to how your pup reacts. If they start gaining weight or having digestive issues, you might need to cut back.

Remember, treats are just that – treats! They’re not meant to replace regular meals. Use them for training, as an occasional reward, or just to show your furry friend some love.

Are There Any Risks in Feeding Pumpkin to Dogs?

While pumpkin is generally safe for dogs, there are a few potential risks to keep in mind:

1. Allergies: Though rare, some dogs can be allergic to pumpkin. Watch for signs like itching, hives, or digestive upset.
2. Tooth decay: Like any treat, pumpkin goodies can contribute to tooth decay if you’re not keeping up with your dog’s dental hygiene.
3. Weight gain: Even though pumpkin is low in calories, the other ingredients in treats can add up. Always factor treats into your dog’s daily calorie allowance.
4. Digestive upset: Too much pumpkin can cause diarrhea. Start with small amounts and increase gradually.
5. Nutrient imbalance: While pumpkin is nutritious, it shouldn’t replace a balanced diet. Always use it as a supplement, not a meal replacement.

As with any new food, it’s a good idea to chat with your vet before adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet, especially if your pup has any health conditions.

What are some other healthy ingredients I can use in dog treats?

Pumpkin is great, but variety is the spice of life! Here are some other healthy ingredients you can mix into your homemade dog treats:

1. Sweet potato: Another orange veggie packed with nutrients.
2. Banana: Great for potassium and fiber.
3. Blueberries: Loaded with antioxidants.
4. Carrots: Crunchy and full of vitamins.
5. Apple (without seeds): A good source of vitamins A and C.
6. Greek yogurt: Provides protein and probiotics.
7. Coconut oil: Good for skin and coat health.
8. Eggs: An excellent source of protein.

Remember to introduce new ingredients slowly and in small amounts to make sure your dog tolerates them well.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of when making these pumpkin dog treats?

Just like humans, dogs can have food allergies. While pumpkin allergies are rare in dogs, some of the other ingredients in these treats could potentially cause issues. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Wheat: Some dogs are sensitive to wheat. If your dog has a wheat allergy, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with alternatives like rice flour or coconut flour.
2. Eggs: Egg allergies can occur in dogs. If your pup is allergic, you can often use a mashed banana or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce as a replacement in baking.
3. Peanut butter: While most dogs love peanut butter, some can be allergic. Always use unsalted, sugar-free peanut butter, and watch for any adverse reactions.
4. Dairy: The yogurt in the frozen treats could be an issue for lactose-intolerant dogs. You can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if needed.
5. Oats: Though less common, some dogs can be sensitive to oats. If you notice any issues, try a different recipe without oats.

When introducing any new treat, start with a small amount and watch for signs of an allergic reaction like itching, hives, swelling, or digestive upset. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop giving the treat and consult your vet.

How long can I store these homemade dog treats?

The shelf life of your homemade dog treats depends on the recipe and how you store them. Here’s a general guide:

• Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats: These can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Once thawed, use within a day.
• Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these can last about a week. In the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Oat-Based Pumpkin Dog Cookies: These soft cookies will last about 5 days at room temperature, up to 2 weeks in the fridge, or 3 months in the freezer.

Homemade treats don’t have preservatives, so they won’t last as long as store-bought ones. Always check for signs of spoilage before giving treats to your dog, no matter how long they’ve been stored.

A good trick is to make a big batch and freeze portions of it. That way, you always have fresh treats on hand without the risk of them going bad.

The End…..

Making homemade pumpkin treats for your dog is a fun, easy way to show them some extra love. Not only are these treats delicious, but they’re also packed with health benefits that can keep your pup feeling their best.

Remember, the key takeaways are:

• Pumpkin is safe and healthy for most dogs when given in moderation
• Always introduce new foods slowly and watch for any adverse reactions
• Store your homemade treats properly to keep them fresh and safe

Why stop at pumpkin? Now that you’re a pro at making dog treats, why not experiment with other dog-friendly ingredients? Your furry friend will thank you for it!