Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats – Healthy, Easy, and Packed with Benefits

If you’re looking for a healthy, homemade treat that your dog will love, these Pumpkin Dog Treats are the perfect solution!

With simple, nutritious ingredients, these treats are not only easy to make but also packed with health benefits.

Free of preservatives and additives, they are a safe and wholesome option for your furry friend. Plus, they come together quickly with minimal prep time.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up these tasty treats and why each ingredient is so beneficial to your dog’s health.

Ingredients & Health Benefits:

½ cup pumpkin puree – Pumpkin is packed with fiber and beta-carotene, which aids digestion and supports a healthy immune system.
¼ cup applesauce – Full of antioxidants and vitamin C, applesauce supports overall health and provides natural sweetness without added sugars.
3 tablespoons peanut butter – Rich in protein and healthy fats, peanut butter gives your dog an energy boost and promotes healthy muscles.
1 egg – Eggs provide a complete protein source with amino acids that help maintain a healthy coat and skin.
2 cups whole wheat flour – Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber, which is great for digestion, and contains important nutrients like magnesium and iron.
¼ teaspoon salt – A small amount of sodium is essential for your dog’s nerve and muscle function.
¼ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the treats rise slightly and gives them a better texture.

Instructions:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, applesauce, peanut butter, and egg until well combined.
Gradually add the whole wheat flour, salt, and baking soda to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. The dough should be firm but pliable.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. If the dough feels crumbly, knead it together until smooth.
Use a cookie cutter (preferably bone-shaped) to cut out the treats, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the treats for 15-25 minutes, depending on your preferred level of crunchiness. For softer treats, bake them closer to 15 minutes, and for crunchy treats, let them go for 25 minutes.
Cool completely before serving to your dog.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store these treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Freezing: If you prefer to make a large batch, you can freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Important Notes:

Pumpkin Caution: Ensure that you are using 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix, which contains sugar and spices that can be harmful to your dog.
Peanut Butter Warning: Always check that the peanut butter you use is free of xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs.
Crunchiness: If your dog prefers a crunchier texture, simply extend the baking time by a few minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 61kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 8mg
Sodium: 57mg
Potassium: 77mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 967IU
Vitamin C: 1mg
Calcium: 8mg
Iron: 1mg

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Conclusion

These easy-to-make Pumpkin Dog Treats are sure to become a favorite in your household, providing a healthy snack that’s both tasty and beneficial for your dog’s well-being. Whether your pup enjoys a soft or crunchy treat, this recipe can be tailored to suit their preference.

Plus, you can feel good knowing that each ingredient serves a nutritional purpose. With a little bit of effort, you can give your dog a delicious, homemade snack that supports their health from the inside out.