5 Homemade Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Pumpkin and peanut butter are two ingredients that many dogs absolutely adore.

Pumpkin is rich in fiber and essential vitamins like A, C, and E, which can help support your dog’s digestive health. Peanut butter, on the other hand, is a great source of protein and healthy fats.

When combined, these ingredients create a delicious, nutritious treat that your dog will love.

In this article, we’ll share some simple and healthy recipes for homemade pumpkin and peanut butter dog treats, perfect for spoiling your furry friend.

The Benefits of Pumpkin and Peanut Butter

• Digestive Health: Pumpkin is excellent for your dog’s digestive system, helping to regulate their bowel movements and improve gut health.
• Rich in Nutrients: Both pumpkin and peanut butter are packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that contribute to your dog’s overall well-being.
• Great for Skin and Coat: The healthy fats in peanut butter support a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treat Recipes

1. Classic Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Biscuits

These classic pumpkin and peanut butter doggy biscuits are easy to make and provide a crunchy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for furry friends of all sizes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened, unsalted)
• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a grain-free option)
• 1/4 cup water (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and peanut butter. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms. Add water if needed to reach the right consistency.
2. Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until firm.
4. Cool: Allow the biscuits to cool completely before serving.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Air Fry: Arrange the biscuits in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and firm.
3. Cool: Let the biscuits cool completely before serving.

2. Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Training Treats

These pumpkin and peanut butter training treats are small, soft, and perfect for rewarding your dog during training sessions.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg. Gradually add the oat flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape the Treats: Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently flatten them. Bake for 15 minutes.
4. Cool: Allow the treats to cool before serving.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Air Fry: Arrange the flattened treats in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until slightly firm.
3. Cool: Let the treats cool completely before serving.

3. Frozen Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Treats

Frozen pumpkin and peanut butter dog treats are a refreshing option, perfect for hot days when your dog needs a cool snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional for creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree and peanut butter. Add yogurt if desired.
2. Fill Molds: Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
3. Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until fully frozen.
4. Serve: Pop the treats out of the molds and serve them as a cool snack.

Customization Ideas:

• Add a Banana: Mix in a mashed banana for added sweetness and potassium.
• Incorporate Honey: A tablespoon of honey can add natural sweetness and antioxidants.

4. Pumpkin, Peanut Butter, and Oat Bars

These pumpkin, peanut butter, and oat bars are chewy, filling treats that are perfect for larger dogs or as an occasional indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/4 cup flaxseed meal (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, rolled oats, and flaxseed meal.
2. Press Into Pan: Press the mixture into a parchment-lined baking pan, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm.
4. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares or bars.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Air Fry: Cut the pressed mixture into bars and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until firm.
3. Cool: Let the bars cool completely before serving.

5. Pumpkin, Peanut Butter, and Chicken Bites

These pumpkin, peanut butter, and chicken bites combine the savory flavor of chicken with the sweetness of pumpkin for a treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup oat flour

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, shredded chicken, and oat flour until a dough forms.
2. Shape Bites: Form the mixture into small bite-sized pieces.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Cool: Let the bites cool before serving.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Air Fry: Arrange the bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until firm.
3. Cool: Allow the bites to cool before serving.

Customization Ideas

• Vegetable Mix-ins: Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Flavor Boost: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or turmeric for added flavor and health benefits.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store baked treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate the treats to keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to three months. Thaw before serving.