If your dog gets excited every time you open a can of pumpkin, you are definitely not alone. Pumpkin is one of the most popular ingredients for homemade dog treats because dogs love the flavor, and it works wonderfully in both crunchy and soft treats. From biscuits and cookies to frozen treats and special desserts, there are so many fun ways to make pumpkin treats for dogs at home.
This collection of homemade pumpkin dog treat recipes has something for every pup. You’ll find crunchy baked treats, soft treats, frozen pumpkin goodies, and even festive holiday recipes. Plus, keep reading for the benefits of pumpkin for dogs, tips on using canned or homemade pumpkin purée, storage information, and helpful supplies for making adorable homemade dog treats.
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Why Dogs Love Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a favorite ingredient for good reason. It has a naturally sweet flavor, soft texture, and mixes easily into all kinds of recipes. Whether baked into crunchy biscuits or blended into frozen treats, pumpkin makes dog treats extra tasty and satisfying. Dogs love pumpkin because it is:
- Naturally sweet without added sugar
- Soft and easy to eat
- Great for crunchy, chewy, and frozen treats
- Full of moisture and flavor
- Perfect for seasonal fall treats
- Easy to combine with dog-friendly ingredients like peanut butter, apples, bananas, and blueberries
Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipes
Whether you want crunchy pumpkin dog biscuits, soft pumpkin treats, frozen snacks, or special pumpkin desserts for dogs, these homemade recipes are easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients your pup will love.
Crunchy Pumpkin Dog Treats
Soft Pumpkin Dog Treats
Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats
Pumpkin Breads and Desserts
Holiday Pumpkin Treats
Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
Pumpkin is more than just tasty. It also contains nutrients that can be beneficial for dogs when served in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Pumpkin for dogs may:
- Support healthy digestion
- Be rich in fiber, which can help with stool consistency
- Contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including beta carotene, vitamin A, and potassium
- Be low in fat and calories
- Add moisture and flavor to homemade treats
- Help dogs feel satisfied because of the fiber content
Canned or Homemade Pumpkin Purée
Both canned pumpkin and homemade pumpkin purée are great for dogs and work wonderfully in homemade pumpkin dog treats.
When using canned pumpkin, make sure it is 100% pure pumpkin with no added sugar, sweeteners, or flavorings. Do not use pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and may include spices or ingredients that are not safe for dogs.
Homemade pumpkin purée is another excellent option and can be a great way to use fresh pumpkin during fall. Fresh pumpkin purée often contains more moisture than canned pumpkin, so you may need to slightly adjust the flour or dry ingredients when making treats with it.
Learn how to make homemade pumpkin purée for dogs.
Helpful Supplies for Making Dog Treats
You can make these dog treats with basic kitchen supplies you probably already have at home. But cookie cutters and silicone molds in cute dog shapes make the treats even more fun and adorable. You can find these on Amazon:
How to Store Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats
The best way to store homemade pumpkin dog treats can vary depending on the type of treat and the ingredients used. Some crunchy treats can stay at room temperature, while softer treats with fruit, dairy, or meat should be refrigerated. The most common storage options are:
- Countertop – Best for crunchy treats and treats without ingredients that spoil quickly
- Refrigerator – Best for treats made with fruit, meat, yogurt, cream cheese, or other dairy ingredients
- Freezer – Best for frozen treats or longer storage of baked treats
Always store treats in airtight containers and check for freshness before serving them to your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat pumpkin?
Yes, plain pumpkin is generally safe for dogs and is commonly used in homemade dog treats and dog food recipes.
Is canned pumpkin safe for dogs?
Yes, plain canned pumpkin that contains only 100% pumpkin is safe for dogs. Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling because it contains added sugar and spices.
Can dogs eat pumpkin pie filling?
No. Pumpkin pie filling often contains sugar, spices, and other ingredients that are not safe for dogs.
How much pumpkin can dogs eat?
Pumpkin should be served in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The amount depends on your dog’s size and dietary needs. If you are unsure, ask your veterinarian for guidance.
Is pumpkin good for dogs with digestive issues?
Pumpkin contains fiber that may help support healthy digestion and stool consistency in some dogs.
Can I freeze pumpkin dog treats?
Yes. Many homemade pumpkin dog treats freeze very well, especially soft treats and baked treats.
How long do homemade pumpkin dog treats last?
Storage time varies depending on the ingredients and storage method. Crunchy baked treats often last several days at room temperature, while softer treats usually need refrigeration.
Find even more pumpkin recipes for dogs right here on Spoiled Hounds!
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My pups are going to love these pumpkin treats! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for linking to our treats! 🙂 These all look great.
Kilo the Pug is going to love all these homemade treats- yum! Perfect as I plan to do a belated birthday celebration and love using pumpkin. Thanks for including our no bake pumpkin cookies.
Friend sent me over here. Great treats recipe! We used them with our own CBD oil!