Treat your furry friend to these delicious homemade acorn squash dog treats! Filled with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a nutritious and satisfying snack your pup will love.
Simple to make, budget-friendly, and safe, they’re perfect for dog parents looking for a healthier, DIY alternative to store-bought treats.
Why You’ll Love This Acorn Squash Dog Treat Recipe
Natural Ingredients: Made with oat flour, acorn squash, and coconut oil for a healthy snack.
Easy to Make: Simple, step-by-step instructions to guide you through.
Perfectly Safe for Dogs: All ingredients are pet-safe and provide beneficial nutrients.
Budget-Friendly: Homemade treats save money and let you control quality.
Ingredients and Their Health Benefits
- 1 Acorn Squash: Rich in fiber, Vitamin A, and potassium, acorn squash supports digestion, vision, and heart health in dogs.
- 2 Eggs: Provides protein and essential fatty acids, promoting strong muscles and a healthy coat.
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil: Supports skin health and can boost energy, with healthy fats that enhance coat shine.
- 2 1/2 Cups Oat Flour: A gluten-free flour rich in fiber, helping with digestion and providing sustained energy.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Cinnamon: Adds flavor and may have anti-inflammatory properties, benefiting joints and overall health.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Ginger: Known for aiding digestion and calming upset stomachs.
- 1-2 Tablespoons Coconut Milk: Provides creaminess to the dough while adding healthy fats and natural sweetness.
How to Make Acorn Squash Dog Treats
Prepare the Squash:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cut the acorn squash in half and remove seeds and pulp.
- Place the squash halves face down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until tender. Allow cooling, then scoop out the flesh and mash well.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the mashed squash, eggs, and coconut oil until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix oat flour, cinnamon, and ginger. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Stir until a dough forms, adding coconut milk as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Roll and Cut the Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/3” thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut shapes, re-rolling and cutting as needed.
Bake the Treats:
- Place treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-17 minutes.
- Allow treats to cool completely on the baking sheet.
Frozen Acorn Squash Dog Treats
For an easy frozen version, blend any leftover mashed acorn squash with plain Greek yogurt.
Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray, freeze, and serve as a cool treat. These frozen bites can be stored for up to 3 months!
Can Humans Eat These Treats?
Yes! While made for dogs, all ingredients in these treats are safe for humans. They’ll have a mild, unsweetened taste due to the lack of sugar, but the healthy ingredients make these an excellent, low-sugar snack option.
Serving Size
How many treats to give depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Begin with one treat daily, especially if introducing acorn squash to their diet for the first time.
Monitor for any sensitivities, and adjust treat intake based on your vet’s recommendation.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Room Temperature: Store treats in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer Storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information (Per Treat)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 95 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 13 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 3 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 1 g |
Monounsaturated Fat | 1 g |
Cholesterol | 20 mg |
Sodium | 12 mg |
Potassium | 95 mg |
Fiber | 1 g |
Sugar | 0.2 g |
Vitamin A | 46 IU |
Vitamin C | 0.5 mg |
Calcium | 16 mg |
Iron | 1 mg |
Conclusion
These homemade acorn squash dog treats are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that benefit your dog’s health.
With a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch of treats that’ll make your pup’s tail wag.
Plus, these treats are a wonderful way to show love and care without added preservatives or fillers. Enjoy watching your dog savor each bite!
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