Queue the drool! My dogs love it when I make them homemade dog treats! And to be honest I love making them.
Not only because I know they are healthy with no preservatives or yucky ingredients, but it’s also fun.
Of course, the recipe has to be easy with limited ingredients. And now that it’s fall, it feels like pumpkin is everywhere! So I thought I’d get into the spirit and pull out my jar of dehydrated pumpkin and make these special pumpkin cookies for the dogs.
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This easy recipe has only 3 ingredients:
- 1 cup oat flour (make your own by grinding old-fashioned oats)
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (I use Native Pet’s Dehydrated Pumpkin)
- 1/4 cup organic peanut butter (Xylitol-free)
Supplies:
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Measuring cups
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (or knife)
Instructions:
- If making your own oat flour, put oats in a small food processor and pulse until flour consistency.
- If making your own pumpkin puree with Native Pet’s Dehydrated Pumpkin Powder, mix 9 scoops with 1/3 cup water.
- Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4″ thick.
- Cut shapes with a cookie cutter or knife.
- Bake at 350° for about 20 minutes, or until the treats are crispy.
- Let cool and let your pup dig in.
- Store in the fridge or freezer.
These mini cookie cutters are the perfect size to make training treats for my dogs. But if you don’t have cookie cutters, just use a knife and cut them the size and shape that is good for your dog.
Click here to download and print this Pumpkin, Peanut Butter Dog Treat Recipe for free.
Storing your dog treats
These pumpkin treats should last 3-5 days on the counter. But since these treats are homemade with no preservatives, I recommend keeping them in the refrigerator or freezer for longer storage. Use an air-tight container, freezer bag, or a mason jar for best results.
A great idea that I had was to fill mason jars with the treats and give them as gifts to your dog-loving friends! I made this one and gave it to my next-door neighbor. Cute idea, right?
Why pumpkin for dogs?
Pumpkin isn’t just a fall favorite for us humans, but dogs can benefit from it too. Here are some of the reasons why you should make your dog a pumpkin-infused treat:
- Digestion: Pumpkin is known for its digestive benefits in dogs. It’s packed with fiber, which can help regulate your pup’s digestion. Whether your dog has occasional tummy troubles or you just want to keep their digestive system in tip-top shape, a spoonful of pumpkin can work wonders.
- Weight Management: If your dog is watching their waistline (or you want them to), pumpkin can be a secret weapon. Since it’s low in calories but high in fiber, it can help your pet feel full without packing on the pounds. Just be sure to use it as part of a balanced diet.
- Nutrient-Rich: Pumpkin is full of essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. These vitamins can boost your dog’s overall health, contribute to a shinier coat, and support their immune system.
- Hydration: Pumpkin has a high water content, which can be particularly helpful for dogs who don’t drink enough water.
- Joint Health: The beta-carotene in pumpkin may contribute to healthier joints. This is great for both active dogs and older ones who may be experiencing joint stiffness.
- Healthy Fur: The combination of vitamins and healthy fats in pumpkin can give your dog’s coat a glossy sheen. Say goodbye to dull, dry fur and hello to a sleek and soft finish.
- Bladder Benefits: Pumpkin may support bladder health in dogs. While it’s not a substitute for proper veterinary care, it can be a helpful addition to your dog’s diet.
When introducing pumpkin to your dog’s diet, be sure to do it gradually, and always opt for plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices). You can start with a small spoonful and monitor your dog’s response. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian.
So, whether you’re looking to aid your dog’s digestion, keep their weight in check, or just provide them with a tasty and nutritious snack, pumpkin can be a fantastic addition to their diet.
I keep a jar of Native Pet’s Dehydrated Pumpkin in my pantry all year long. It’s a great way to always have pumpkin on hand for any sudden diarrhea episodes. Plus, I can make pumpkin dog treats anytime I want without worrying if I have a can of pumpkin puree.
Read Your Ultimate Guide to Dogs and Pumpkin to learn more.
More pumpkin dog treats
I have a couple of other pumpkin treats to add to your fall lineup. These are no-bake frozen treats your dog will enjoy all year long.
You can find the recipes for those here.
Come back and let me know how your dog likes these pumpkin and peanut butter treats!
