I was making sweet potato pie last weekend, and Snickers was glued to my side like he thought he was getting a slice. He didn’t. But he did inspire something better.
These Pumpkin Sweet Potato Dog Treats are my way of sharing the fall flavors—without the sugar, butter, or drama. Just soft, chewy balls packed with stuff your pup actually should be eating.
No preservatives. No junk. Just clean, simple ingredients you probably already have.
They’re great for training. Or spoiling. Or just proving you’re the kind of person who bakes for their dog. (Which you are. Obviously.)
Let’s make something your pup will go nuts for—and feel good doing it.
Why You’ll Love These Dog Balls
- Nutrient-packed with fiber & vitamins for digestion & energy.
- Soft, chewy texture ideal for all dogs, especially seniors.
- Simple ingredients for a quick, healthy homemade treat.
Homemade Pumpkin Sweet Potato Dog Treats Recipe
This recipe creates soft, chewy dog balls perfect for dogs of all sizes.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1½ cups brown rice flour | Gluten-free base for structure & digestion. |
| 1 cup sweet potato, mashed | Fiber & vitamins for gut health & energy. |
| ½ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) | Moisture & nutrients for digestion & immunity. |
| ½ cup water | Hydration for dough consistency & binding. |
| 1 medium-large egg | Protein for structure & chewy texture. |
| ½ tsp cinnamon (optional) | Subtle warmth, safe in small amounts. |
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking & a soft texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking & ensure easy cleanup; parchment also helps achieve uniform baking.
Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potato
If not pre-mashed, bake or steam 1 medium sweet potato until fork-tender (about 20 minutes at 400°F if baking). Scoop out 1 cup mashed sweet potato, let it cool slightly, & ensure it’s smooth with no lumps for a consistent dough.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup mashed sweet potato, ½ cup pumpkin purée (check label for pure purée), ½ cup water, & 1 medium-large egg. Whisk for 1 minute until smooth & creamy, creating a vibrant orange mixture that smells faintly of pumpkin.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Add 1½ cups brown rice flour & ½ tsp cinnamon (if using) to the wet mixture. Stir with a sturdy spoon or hands for 2-3 minutes until a soft, slightly tacky dough forms; if too sticky, add 1 tbsp brown rice flour, but keep it pliable for chewy treats.
Step 5: Shape the Dog Balls
Scoop 1 tbsp portions of dough & roll into 1-inch balls with lightly floured hands to prevent sticking. Place on the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart; gently flatten each ball slightly with your palm for even baking & a cookie-like shape.
Step 6: Bake & Cool
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the balls are set & lightly golden on the bottom; they should feel soft but hold their shape. Transfer to a wire rack to cool for 15-20 minutes, allowing them to firm up while staying chewy; the kitchen will smell like fall!
Storage & Serving
Store dog balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Use a sealed bag or jar to maintain softness.
Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage. Thaw at room temperature before serving 1-2 balls daily, based on dog size.
Feeding Guidelines
These dog balls are supplements for occasional use (2-3 times weekly). Start with half a ball to ensure tolerance for sweet potato, pumpkin, or eggs.
Small dogs need smaller pieces to avoid choking. Consult a vet for allergies or conditions like pancreatitis, as sweet potato’s carbs may affect some pups.
Pairing Treats with a Balanced Diet for Optimal Health
These dog balls are delightful but only part of a healthy diet. Treats should be 10% of daily calories—1-2 balls (20-30 calories) for a 20-lb dog eating 300-400 calories.
Pair with protein-rich kibble or wet food like chicken. Add dog-safe veggies like steamed green beans for low-calorie crunch.
Check with your vet for portion control. A balanced diet keeps your pup thriving!
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
Here’s how to tackle common issues:
Dough too sticky: Add 1 tbsp brown rice flour at a time until manageable. Avoid over-flouring to keep treats chewy.
Balls too soft: Ensure tbsp-sized portions & bake 3-5 minutes longer. Check oven temperature for accuracy.
Uneven baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through. Shape balls uniformly for consistent results.
Balls crumble: May be overbaked or too dry. Reduce time by 2-3 minutes or add 1 tsp water next batch.
Store soft balls in the fridge to prevent spoilage. Drop a comment below if you need help—we’ll get you to a perfect batch!
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Brown Rice Flour: Gluten-free fiber & carbs for digestion & energy.
- Sweet Potato: Fiber & vitamins A, C for gut health & immunity.
- Pumpkin Purée: Nutrients & moisture for digestion & hydration.
- Water: Ensures dough consistency & soft texture.
- Egg: Protein for structure & satiety.
- Cinnamon: Subtle warmth, safe in tiny amounts (optional).
FAQs
Are these safe for all dogs?
Yes, if no allergies exist. Check for egg or sweet potato sensitivity & start small.
Why are my balls soft?
Check portion size—too large or underbaked. Use tbsp portions & bake longer for firmness.
Can I skip cinnamon?
Yes, it’s optional. Pumpkin & sweet potato keep the flavor delicious.
Conclusion
These Homemade Pumpkin Sweet Potato Dog Treats (Dog Balls) bring soft, chewy joy to your dog’s day. Snickers gobbles them up, tail wagging, & I hope your pup feels that love.
Bake a batch for a wholesome reward. Here’s to happy pups & cozy baking moments!