Autumn’s rolling in, leaves crunch, pumpkin spice everywhere … but why should humans have all the fun? These homemade pumpkin dog treats bring the season to your pup: simple, wholesome, and packed with fiber, vitamins, and tail-wagging joy.
Four ingredients, a few minutes, and your kitchen smells like fall while your dog sits like a saint for another bite.
The Pumpkin Powerhouse
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why pumpkin is such a superstar ingredient for dogs. Pumpkin is packed with fiber, which can aid in digestion and help regulate your dog’s bowel movements.
It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, and E,, as well as minerals like iron and potassium, all of which contribute to your dog’s overall health.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Pumpkin can be a great addition to your dog’s diet for various reasons:
- It can help with both diarrhea and constipation due to its high fiber content.
- The antioxidants in pumpkin support your dog’s immune system.
- It’s low in calories, making it an excellent treat option for dogs watching their weight.
Safety First: Pumpkin Dos & Don’ts
While pumpkin is generally safe for dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Always use plain, canned pumpkin, or fresh pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can be harmful to dogs..
- Introduce pumpkin to your dog’s diet gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- If you’re using peanut butter in your treats, ensure it doesn’t contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s toxic to dogs.
- Consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has any health conditions.
- Remember that treats, including pumpkin treats, should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Flour
- 1 Egg
- 3/4 Cup Canned Pumpkin
- 1/3 Cup Peanut Butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the egg, peanut butter, and pumpkin until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the treats to cool completely before serving to your eager pup.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles. Also an aspiring cook we he researches and tries all kinds of different food recipes and shares what works best.