Updated on 10/22
The autumn season is in full swing. That means trees are shedding their brilliantly colored fall foliage, the air is crisp, cozy, chunky sweaters are becoming a wardrobe staple, and people are hunkering down at home.
One activity that many people enjoy around this time of year is baking up a storm in their kitchen. And this can also include some tasty treats for your pooch.
One fall staple, pumpkin, is actually brimming with health benefits for dogs. Not only is this gourd packed full of essential nutrients including vitamin A, iron, and potassium, but pumpkins have also been shown to boost the immune system and contribute to a fully moisturized coat.
Related: 30 Super Easy Dog Treats Recipes Using 5 Ingredients or Less
Here are five yummy fall pumpkin recipes that are perfectly pet appropriate.
1. Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Practically all pooches love peanut butter. Indulge your dog with a savory snack when you whip up this pumpkin and peanut butter dog treat recipe. Just be sure to steer clear of peanut butter that includes the ingredient xylitol, which is toxic for dogs.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
2 large eggs
½ cup canned pumpkin
2 tablespoons peanut butter
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Mix together the eggs, flour, salt, peanut butter, cinnamon, and pumpkin in a large bowl. If you need to, add some water to help mold the dough. Roll the dough into ½ inch by ½ inch pieces.
Stick the treats in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until they are hard.
2. Pumpkin Carrot Bites
If you want to make a super delicious and nutritious goody for your dog, this pumpkin carrot bites recipe will do just the trick. Carrots are a great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin A and can also improve your dog’s teeth.
When shopping for canned pumpkins, ensure you’re getting the type that only has pumpkin in it. Other ingredients could be harmful to your pet.
Ingredients:
¾ cup canned pumpkin
1 egg, beaten slightly
¼ cup shredded carrots
1 cup whole wheat flour
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Mix the egg, carrots, pumpkin, and flour until the mixture is completely moistened. Roll the dough into small balls and put them in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats
Some dogs simply love to lick and suck on frozen treats. This frozen pumpkin treat recipe is the perfect way to indulge your pet. The recipe also contains plain yogurt, which is a great source of protein and calcium for your dog. Additionally, yogurt can act as a probiotic and boost digestive health.
Ingredients:
1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup pumpkin puree (make sure only pumpkin)
Directions:
Mix the yogurt and pumpkin together. Divide the mixture into ice trays or a mold. Place in your freezer for 24 hours.
Related: 9 Grain-Free Dog Treats That Are So Yummy
4. Pumpkin and Banana Dog Treats
Bananas are a fantastic treat for your pup. Low in sodium and cholesterol, bananas include fiber, vitamins, potassium, and copper. This yummy fruit also contains a lot of antioxidants, which can help your dog build cartilage and reduces cell damage. Try out this pumpkin and banana recipe to give your pet a healthy treat.
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana
½ can pumpkin puree
1 ½ cup whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Mix the honey, banana, and pumpkin in a large bowl. Add the baking powder and flour. Role out the dough and cut into small squares. Put the squares on a baking tray and bake for about 10 minutes.
5. Grain-Free Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Even if your dog is allergic or sensitive to grain, he can still enjoy the delicious flavors of fall with this grain-free recipe.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cup coconut flour
½ cup organic peanut butter
½ cup coconut oil
1 cup pumpkin puree
3 eggs
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Mix all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes.
Related: 4 Creative Ways to Use Your Thanksgiving Leftovers to Make Delicious Dog Treats
