Healthy Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats Recipe
Treat your dog to something special with these easy-to-make, nutritious pumpkin dog treats! Perfect for any pet-loving household.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin puree (1 cup): Adds fiber and helps with digestion.
- Applesauce (1/4 cup): Provides moisture and natural sweetness.
- Peanut butter (1/2 cup): Source of protein and fat, ensure it’s xylitol-free for safety.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as a binder.
- Whole wheat flour (2 1/2 cups): Gives structure to the treats.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances flavor.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Optional, aids in leavening.
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, applesauce, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
- Gradually add the whole wheat flour, salt, and baking soda to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut out treats using a bone-shaped cookie cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-25 minutes or until the treats are firm to the touch. Adjust the baking time depending on how crunchy you want the treats to be.
- Allow the treats to cool on the baking sheet before serving to your pet.
Notes
To maximize the enjoyment and longevity of your Pumpkin Dog Treats, consider the following tips:
- Pumpkin variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of pumpkin, such as fresh pureed pumpkin for a seasonal twist.
- Flour options: While whole wheat flour is recommended, you can substitute gluten-free flours if your dog is sensitive to wheat.
- Spice it up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough—just make sure it’s safe for dogs.
Storing:
- Refrigerate: Store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to three months.
Reheating:
- Oven: To refresh the treats or add a bit more crunch, lightly toast them in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.