Delight your furry friend with these homemade pumpkin dog treats, perfect for boosting nutrition while providing a tasty snack.
Pumpkin is not only delicious but also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to your dog’s diet.
This simple recipe is easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with your pup.
Homemade Dog Treats With Pumpkin
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it is plain and not pie filling)
- 2 eggs
- 3 cups whole wheat flour (substitute with a grain-free alternative if needed)
- 1/2 cup oats (optional, for added texture)
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free and unsalted)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (bone-shaped or other fun shapes)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the whole wheat flour, oats, and cinnamon. Stir until the dough is firm.
- Roll Out Dough:
- Lay out a piece of parchment paper and place the dough on it. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut Out Treats:
- Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut out more treats until all the dough is used.
- Bake:
- Place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your dog.
- Storage:
- Store leftover treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
How Long Do Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats Last?
Homemade pumpkin dog treats can last quite well if stored properly. Generally, these treats should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, you can freeze the treats, which will keep them good for up to 3 months.
Always ensure that the treats are completely cool before storing them to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold. Check the treats periodically for any signs of spoilage and discard them if they appear or smell off.
Should I Use Canned Pumpkin or Homemade Pumpkin Purée?
When making pumpkin dog treats, you can use either canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin purée, but there are important considerations for each option:
- Canned Pumpkin: Ensure it is plain pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains spices and sugar that are not suitable for dogs. Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent in texture and nutritional content, making it a reliable ingredient for dog treat recipes.
- Homemade Pumpkin Purée: If you prefer to make your pumpkin purée, simply roast or steam plain pumpkin and blend it until smooth. This method allows you to control exactly what goes into the purée, avoiding any additives. However, homemade purée can vary in water content, which might affect the consistency of your treat dough.
Both options are healthy, but the key is to ensure that whatever form of pumpkin you use, it should be plain and free of any added ingredients like salt, sugar, or spices.
Feeding Guidelines
These pumpkin dog treats are intended as a supplement to your dog’s regular diet and should be given in moderation.
Typically, treats should constitute no more than 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake. One or two treats per day are sufficient for most dogs, depending on their size and dietary needs.
Health Benefits
Pumpkin is a fantastic source of fiber, which can help regulate your dog’s digestive system.
It’s also packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin A, which supports vision health, and antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals.
The inclusion of cinnamon in this recipe can also help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion.