Pumpkin and banana are the ultimate duo when it comes to whipping up treats your pup will love! These ingredients not only bring natural sweetness but are also packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support healthy digestion and overall well-being.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, rewarding good behavior, or just want to spoil your furry friend, these 3 easy recipes have you covered. From chewy snacks to refreshing frozen bites and even no-bake options, there’s something here for every pup’s taste.
Plus, they’re quick to make, healthy, and way better than store-bought treats—your dog will thank you with every tail wag!
Homemade Pumpkin & Banana Dog Treat Recipes
Pumpkin Banana Pup Bites
These simple, no-bake bites combine the goodness of pumpkin and banana for a delicious and quick treat your dog will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (unsweetened) for texture and healthy fats (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, begin by mashing the ripe banana until smooth. Use a fork to break up the banana into a creamy consistency.
- Add Pumpkin and Peanut Butter: Stir in the pumpkin puree and natural peanut butter (if using). If you’re adding peanut butter, ensure it’s xylitol-free and made with no added sugar, as xylitol is toxic to dogs. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the Oats: Slowly add in the rolled oats. Stir continuously until the oats are fully incorporated, and the mixture becomes thick and sticky. If it feels too runny, add a little more oats to help thicken the mixture.
- Shape the Treats: You can either roll the dough into small bite-sized balls with your hands or press the mixture into a baking pan and use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. For easy portioning, using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop helps create uniform-sized balls.
- Chill: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the shaped treats on the sheet. Refrigerate them for at least 1 hour to set. This helps firm up the treats and makes them easier for your dog to enjoy.
- Serve: Once set, your treats are ready to serve! Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 week. These treats are perfect for a quick snack or as a training reward.
Chilled Pumpkin Banana Bites
These cool, refreshing bites combine pumpkin and banana for a delicious, healthy treat that’s perfect for hot days or simply keeping your dog cool.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (unsweetened) for a creamy texture and probiotics.
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (natural, unsweetened) for added flavor and richness.
Instructions:
- Mash the Banana: Start by peeling and mashing the ripe banana in a mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to break it down until smooth with no lumps.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree to the mashed banana and stir until well combined. If you want a creamier texture, you can stir in the plain yogurt at this stage. Make sure the yogurt is unsweetened and plain to avoid unnecessary sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Spoon Into Molds: Using a spoon, transfer the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays. Silicone molds work especially well because they allow for easy removal of the treats once frozen. If you prefer, you can even use a muffin tin as an alternative.
- Freeze: Place the filled molds in the freezer and allow them to freeze for a minimum of 4 hours, or until the treats are fully solid. For best results, let them sit overnight.
- Serve: Once the treats are frozen, pop them out of the molds and serve them to your dog. These make excellent cooling snacks, especially during warmer weather. Store any extras in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Banana Pumpkin Pup Bites
These soft, chewy treats combine the sweetness of banana and pumpkin with the goodness of oats, making them a healthy and gentle snack for your dog.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy removal of the treats once they’re baked.
- Mash the Banana: Peel and mash the banana in a bowl until smooth and creamy. You want the banana to be as smooth as possible for easy mixing.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree to the mashed banana. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Pumpkin adds moisture and helps bind the dough together, while also providing digestive benefits.
- Add the Oats: Slowly add the rolled oats to the mixture, stirring to combine. The oats will help give the treats texture and fiber. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water or unsweetened applesauce to adjust the consistency.
- Shape the Treats: Spoon the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into small mounds. You can use your hands to shape the treats into balls or flatten them into discs, depending on your preference. Keep the treats uniform in size so they bake evenly.
- Bake: Place the treats in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown around the edges. If you prefer chewier treats, bake them for the shorter time.
- Cool and Serve: Once the treats are done baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack. These treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week or frozen for longer shelf life.
The Health Benefits of Pumpkin and Banana for Dogs
Before diving into the recipes, it’s helpful to explain why pumpkin and banana are such a great combination for your dog’s health:
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, which helps regulate your dog’s digestive system. It’s often recommended by veterinarians for dogs with constipation or diarrhea. Additionally, pumpkin contains vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune system health, and potassium, which supports healthy heart and muscle function.
- Bananas: Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle function and heart health. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion, and vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports a healthy immune system. Bananas are gentle on the stomach and make a naturally sweet treat for dogs.
Together, pumpkin and banana offer a nutrient-packed snack that promotes digestive health, supports a strong immune system, and provides essential vitamins and minerals.
How to Use These Treats for Training and Enrichment
Homemade pumpkin and banana treats are not only great for birthdays or special occasions but also useful for training and mental stimulation:
- Training Rewards: Use these soft treats as training rewards for good behavior. Break them into small, bite-sized pieces for positive reinforcement during obedience training.
- Puzzle Toys and Enrichment: Hide small pieces of these treats in a puzzle feeder or use them in a KONG This will provide mental stimulation for your dog, keeping them occupied and satisfied as they work for their treat.
- Frozen Treats for Teething: If you have a puppy, these treats (especially the frozen ones) are ideal for teething. The cold helps soothe sore gums while providing a nutritious snack.
Wrapping it up
These 3 homemade pumpkin and banana dog treat recipes are not only delicious but also nutritious and gentle on your dog’s stomach. From no-bake treats to frozen snacks, these recipes are perfect for spoiling your dog with wholesome, natural ingredients.
With the right storage and portion control, these treats can be a regular part of your dog’s diet, helping support their digestive health while offering a tasty snack. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, your dog will love these homemade goodies!