Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats: Vet-Approved Recipes for a Happy Pup

Pumpkin isn’t just a delicious fall favorite—it’s also a superfood for dogs! Rich in fiber, vitamins, and digestive benefits, pumpkin is a fantastic ingredient for homemade dog treats. Whether your pup needs a gentle digestive aid, a low-fat snack, or a seasonal delight, these vet-approved recipes will keep tails wagging.

This guide covers everything you need to know about making healthy, homemade pumpkin dog treats, including the best ingredients, simple recipes, and expert tips to keep your pup happy and healthy.

Why Pumpkin is Great for Dogs

Pumpkin is more than just tasty—it’s nutritious and beneficial for your dog’s health.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

Aids Digestion: Pumpkin is high in fiber, helping regulate digestion and ease constipation or diarrhea.
Supports Weight Management: Low in calories but packed with nutrients, pumpkin makes a great filler for weight-conscious pups.
Boosts Immunity: Rich in Vitamin A, C, and E, pumpkin helps strengthen the immune system.
Improves Skin & Coat: Omega-3 fatty acids in pumpkin seeds promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Natural Hydration: Pumpkin is 90% water, helping keep dogs hydrated.

Tip: Always use plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree—avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains harmful additives and sugar.

Vet-Approved Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipes

1. Simple 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Dog Biscuits

These easy-to-make biscuits are crunchy, healthy, and perfect for training rewards.

Ingredients:

1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, unsweetened)
2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
1 egg

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin, flour, and egg to form a dough.
Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool completely before serving.

Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for longer freshness.

2. No-Bake Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Treats

These soft treats are perfect for senior dogs or pups with sensitive teeth.

Ingredients:

1 cup pumpkin puree
½ cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
2 ½ cups oats

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin and peanut butter until smooth.
Gradually add oats, stirring until well combined.
Roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Serve chilled for a refreshing, chewy treat.

Tip: Use natural peanut butter without xylitol, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.

3. Frozen Pumpkin Yogurt Pupsicles

A cool summer treat that’s also great for digestion!

Ingredients:

1 cup pumpkin puree
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
Pour mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
Freeze for 4–6 hours until solid.
Serve on hot days for a refreshing snack.

Health Tip: Greek yogurt provides probiotics that support gut health!

4. Pumpkin & Banana Soft Bites

These soft, chewy treats are ideal for puppies and older dogs.

Ingredients:

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 ripe banana (mashed)
1 ½ cups oat flour
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Mash banana and pumpkin together until smooth.
Stir in oat flour and cinnamon to form a dough.
Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until firm but still soft.
Cool completely before serving.

Bonus Tip: Add a spoonful of coconut oil for extra skin and coat benefits!

Pumpkin Treats: Safety Tips for Dogs

What to Avoid When Making Dog Treats

Pumpkin Pie Filling: Contains sugar and spices that can be harmful.
Xylitol: Often found in peanut butter, xylitol is toxic to dogs.
Too Much Pumpkin: While beneficial, too much fiber can cause an upset stomach—moderation is key.

🍽️ How Many Pumpkin Treats Can Dogs Have?

Small dogs: 1–2 small treats per day.
Medium dogs: 2–3 treats per day.
Large dogs: 3–5 treats per day.

Veterinarian Tip: Introduce new treats gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Storing Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats

To keep treats fresh:

Refrigerate soft treats for up to 5–7 days.
Freeze baked treats for up to 3 months.
Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Pro Tip: Label frozen treats with the date so you know when to use them.

FAQs About Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Roast and puree fresh pumpkin without added spices or sugar.

2. Can I use almond flour instead of wheat flour?

Yes, but coconut or oat flour are better grain-free options for digestion.

3. Are pumpkin treats good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Yes! Pumpkin is gentle on digestion and can soothe an upset stomach.

4. How do I make pumpkin treats without baking?

Try the no-bake peanut butter pumpkin balls or the frozen pumpkin yogurt pupsicles.

5. Can puppies eat pumpkin treats?

Yes, but introduce small portions and avoid honey or cinnamon for young puppies.

Conclusion

Homemade pumpkin dog treats are a nutritious, vet-approved way to spoil your pup while ensuring they get healthy, high-quality ingredients. Whether you choose baked biscuits, no-bake balls, or frozen pupsicles, these easy recipes will keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Try making a batch today, and watch your pup’s tail wag with joy! 🐶🎃

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