A simple, wholesome treat packed with fiber and flavor.
The first time I made these pumpkin carrot chews, I was surprised by how easy they were—and how excited Snickers got just from the smell. These chewy, oven-baked treats are made with just a few dog-friendly ingredients and are perfect for pups who love to nibble on something soft but satisfying.
With the natural sweetness of carrots and the fiber-rich goodness of pumpkin, these chews are great for digestion and just plain fun to eat. They’re also perfect for dogs with food sensitivities since they’re grain-free and made without meat or dairy.
Why You’ll Love These Chews
- Grain-free and allergy-friendly
- Great for digestion, thanks to pumpkin and carrots
- Chewy texture that keeps dogs happily occupied
- 3 simple ingredients—no fillers, preservatives, or extras
- Budget-friendly and freezer-safe
Pumpkin Carrot Chews for Dogs
These easy homemade dog chews come together with just three ingredients—chances are, you already have everything in your pantry!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 3–4 small to medium carrots | Adds fiber, natural sweetness, and beta-carotene |
| ½ cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened) | Supports digestion and healthy gut function |
| 1 tbsp olive oil | Provides healthy fats for skin and coat |
Note: Make sure your pumpkin purée contains no added sugar or spices. Just plain, pure pumpkin.
How to Make Pumpkin Carrot Chews
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and finely grating 3–4 small to medium carrots. The finer you grate them, the better they’ll mix into the dough and help the chews hold together. You can use a box grater or pulse the carrots in a food processor. Make sure there are no large chunks, as those can affect texture and drying.
If you’re using canned pumpkin, double-check that it’s 100% pure pumpkin with no added sugars or spices—ingredients like nutmeg or xylitol can be harmful to dogs.
2. Mix It All Together
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, ½ cup pumpkin purée, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir everything thoroughly until it forms a thick, sticky dough. The mixture should be soft enough to shape but not watery.
If it’s too wet to handle, let it sit for 5–10 minutes. The carrots and pumpkin will release moisture slowly, so giving it time helps bind the mixture better.
3. Shape the Chews
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into log shapes, nugget bites, or flattened sticks, depending on your dog’s size and chewing habits.
You want each piece to be uniform in size so they bake evenly. For large dogs, longer chews work well. For small breeds or training treats, go with bite-sized rounds or bars.
You can also press the mixture into silicone molds or cookie cutters if you want fun shapes.
4. Bake Low and Slow
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Space out your chews slightly to allow airflow between them.
Bake for 2 to 2½ hours, flipping halfway through for even drying. You’re not trying to brown them, but to gently dehydrate them so they’re firm, chewy, and safe for storage. Keep an eye on them during the last 30 minutes—they should feel dry on the outside but still slightly flexible.
5. Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the chews from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. As they cool, they’ll firm up a bit more and develop that chewy, satisfying texture dogs love.
Don’t store or serve them while warm—they’ll steam inside the container and soften too much.
Storage Tips
After cooling, store the chews in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
If frozen, thaw before serving, or let your pup enjoy one cold on a hot day for a fun twist.
Feeding Guidelines
These chews are meant to be given as a treat or enrichment snack, not a full meal. They’re rich in fiber, so moderation is key—especially if your dog is new to pumpkin or carrots.
- Small dogs: ½ to 1 chew per day
- Medium to large dogs: 1–2 chews per day
Introduce slowly to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach, especially if they’re not used to high-fiber treats.
Ingredient Benefits
- Carrots: Full of vitamin A, good for vision and immunity
- Pumpkin: High in fiber, helps support digestion and regularity
- Olive Oil: Contains omega-9 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?
Nope—avoid pie filling! It usually contains added sugar and spices that aren’t safe for dogs. Stick with plain, unsweetened pumpkin purée.
Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
Yes! Just make sure to grate them finely so they mix well into the dough. The smaller the pieces, the better the chew holds together.
Are these safe for puppies?
They can be, as long as your puppy is eating solid food and isn’t sensitive to high-fiber treats. Start with a small piece and check with your vet if you’re unsure.
Can I swap olive oil for something else?
Absolutely. You can use coconut oil or flaxseed oil if preferred—just make sure it’s a dog-safe, food-grade oil.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Carrot Chews are an easy, healthy way to treat your dog with something homemade. They’re soft, satisfying, and full of gut-friendly ingredients your pup will benefit from and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a grain-free snack or just want to bake something simple and fun, this recipe is a go-to.
Snickers? He’s already waiting by the oven. Again.