If you want to pamper your pup with something nutritious and delicious, these Homemade Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats are the perfect choice! Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, they are not only tasty but also beneficial to your dog’s health. Plus, making them at home ensures you’re using wholesome ingredients.
Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats Recipe
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
- 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree (Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not the spiced pie filling!)
- 1/3 cup of unsweetened applesauce
- 3 cups of whole wheat flour (or substitute with oat or rice flour if your dog has wheat allergies)
- 1/4 cup of rolled oats
- 1 egg
- 1/3 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (Optional, but adds a lovely aroma!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, applesauce, and egg until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour, oats, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until a dough forms. If it’s a bit dry, add extra applesauce, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Shape the Treats: Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Use cookie cutters to cut fun shapes, like bones or paws.
- Bake: Arrange the cut-out dough on the prepared sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats turn golden brown and firm up.
- Cool Down: Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Tips for the Perfect Treats
- Storage: These treats can stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, store them in the fridge or freeze them for up to three months.
- Customization: Feel free to mix in other dog-safe ingredients like peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free), mashed bananas, or shredded carrots for an extra nutrient boost.
- Crunchy Lovers: If your dog prefers a crunchier texture, leave the treats in the oven after turning off the heat to dry them out even further.
Serving Your Pup’s Treats
Treats should be given in moderation. Here’s a quick guide on portion sizes:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small treats per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.
Make sure treats don’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Always balance treats with a nutritious diet and consult your vet if you’re unsure about how many calories your dog needs.
Additional Dog-Friendly Ingredients You Can Use
If you want to get creative, there are several other dog-safe ingredients you can incorporate into your treats for extra flavor and nutrients:
- Carrots: Shredded carrots are a great source of beta-carotene and fiber, which are excellent for your dog’s health.
- Sweet Potato: Like pumpkin, sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins, promoting digestive health.
- Peanut Butter: Dogs love peanut butter, and it’s a good source of protein and healthy fats (just make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs).
- Bananas: They are rich in potassium and fiber, promoting heart and digestive health.
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, they can be added to the dough or used as a topping for a nutritional boost.
How to Tell if Your Dog Enjoys the Treats
Every dog has different tastes, so it’s important to monitor your pup the first time they try these treats. If they enjoy the flavor, they may show excitement, wag their tail, or eagerly wait for another treat. If they’re hesitant, consider adjusting the recipe (e.g., adding more flavoring like peanut butter or switching up the ingredients).
In Conclusion
Homemade dog treats are a fantastic way to show your pup you care. These Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats are healthy, easy to make, and guaranteed to make your dog’s tail wag with joy. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy watching your dog savor every bite of their delicious, homemade snack!