Let’s be real—pumpkin season hits, and suddenly everything smells like cinnamon, spice, and… dog drool? Yep, because while you’re sipping that pumpkin spice latte, your pup’s eyeing you like, “Hey, where’s mine?”
Here’s the thing: pumpkin isn’t just delicious—it’s a total gut-health hero for dogs. It’s rich in fiber, easy to digest, and helps with everything from shiny coats to smooth digestion (you know what I mean).
If you’ve ever wanted to whip up something homemade but easy—like actually easy—these 10 pumpkin dog treat recipes are your go-to. I’ve tried several of them myself (okay, my dog tried them, I just did the mixing), and trust me, your furry friend will go wild for them.
Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing and become your dog’s favorite human? Let’s get rolling.
Table of Contents
1. Classic Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
Ah, the classic combo—pumpkin and peanut butter. It’s like the dog version of PB&J, but way healthier.
What You’ll Need
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter (no xylitol!)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 egg
How to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix pumpkin, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the flour and cinnamon until dough forms.
- Roll out and cut into shapes—bone cutters, hearts, or whatever screams Pinterest-worthy.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp.
Pro Tip
If your dog likes crunchier biscuits, turn the oven off and let them “chill” in there while it cools. Crunchy perfection!
Why It Works: The peanut butter adds protein, the pumpkin aids digestion, and cinnamon? It smells like fall—need I say more?
2. No-Bake Pumpkin Oat Balls
Ever have one of those lazy Sundays when the oven feels like too much commitment? Same. These no-bake treats are your solution.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- ½ cup canned pumpkin
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 1 tbsp honey
Directions
- Mix everything in a bowl until sticky and smooth.
- Roll into small balls and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
FYI
You can even freeze these for long-term storage—they thaw in minutes. Perfect for busy dog parents.
Why It Works: It’s high in fiber and protein but super gentle on tummies. Plus, zero baking = zero cleanup stress.
3. Frozen Pumpkin Yogurt Bites
Hot day? These little frozen bites are like ice cream for dogs—without the guilt trip.
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- A dash of cinnamon
Steps
- Mix all ingredients until smooth.
- Spoon into silicone molds (paw shapes look adorable).
- Freeze for at least 3 hours.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got an impatient pup (aka all dogs), make a big batch and store extras in a freezer bag.
Why It Works: Yogurt provides probiotics, and pumpkin keeps digestion smooth—your pup’s tummy will thank you later.
4. Pumpkin Banana Pup Pops
These treats scream summer in a bite. They’re sweet, cooling, and ideal for pups who deserve a little spa moment.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ripe banana
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
Instructions
- Blend everything until creamy.
- Pour into ice cube trays or molds.
- Freeze overnight.
IMO, these also smell good enough to tempt humans (don’t ask how I know that).
Why It Works: Bananas add potassium, pumpkin adds fiber, and coconut milk brings that smooth texture.
5. Pumpkin Apple Crunchies
If your dog loves something with a little bite, this crunchy delight is a must.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 apple, grated (no seeds)
- 2 cups oat flour
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Steps
- Mix pumpkin and apple first, then add flour and cinnamon.
- Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
Why It Works: The combo of apple and pumpkin brings natural sweetness, while the oats give it a hearty crunch.
6. Pumpkin Sweet Potato Chews
Want to spoil your dog with a chewy snack that’s also healthy? Try this one.
You’ll Need
- 1 small sweet potato
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
How to Make
- Slice the sweet potato into thin strips.
- Mix pumpkin and coconut oil, coat the strips, and bake at 250°F for 2 hours.
- Let them cool—voilà, chewy heaven.
Pro Tip: Store them in the fridge; they stay fresh for a week.
Why It Works: Sweet potato adds vitamins, pumpkin supports digestion, and coconut oil promotes a glossy coat.
7. Mini Pumpkin Pupcakes
Because yes, dogs deserve cupcakes too.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix everything and spoon into mini muffin tins.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Optional Frosting: Mix Greek yogurt with a bit of peanut butter for the cutest dog-safe frosting.
Why It Works: It’s the perfect treat for birthdays or just-because moments—soft, healthy, and oh-so-cute.
8. Pumpkin Carrot Training Treats
Training your dog? These little nuggets make perfect bite-sized rewards.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup shredded carrot
- 1 egg
Directions
- Mix all ingredients and shape into small coins.
- Bake at 325°F for 20 minutes.
Pro Tip: Store them in the fridge—they’ll last about a week.
Why It Works: Carrots support dental health, pumpkin helps digestion, and the small size keeps training clean and easy.
9. Pumpkin & Oatmeal Breakfast Bites
These are basically the canine version of breakfast muffins.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine all ingredients until thick and sticky.
- Spoon onto a parchment-lined tray and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
Why It Works: It’s high-fiber, filling, and smells incredible. Your dog will probably beg for seconds… or thirds.
10. Pumpkin & Turmeric Anti-Inflammatory Treats
Got an older pup or one with achy joints? This recipe’s got your back.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 egg
Steps
- Mix everything until smooth.
- Roll and cut into shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Why It Works: Turmeric reduces inflammation, pumpkin aids digestion, and coconut oil adds healthy fats. Basically, it’s a superfood cookie.
Storage Tips for Homemade Pumpkin Dog Treats
Let’s be honest—making treats is fun, but watching them go stale is heartbreaking. Here’s how to keep that from happening:
- Room temperature: Up to 5 days (for baked, dry treats).
- Fridge: 7–10 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (for most recipes).
Pro Tip: Label your containers with dates so you never forget which batch is which. I learned this one the hard way.
Why Pumpkin is Basically a Superfood for Dogs
You’ve probably heard that pumpkin is great for dogs, but here’s what makes it actually awesome:
- Fiber-rich: Helps regulate digestion.
- Low in fat: Great for pups watching their waistlines.
- Vitamin A & C: Boosts immune system and eye health.
- Beta-carotene: Keeps coats shiny and healthy.
Ever noticed how your dog’s poop improves (yep, we’re going there) after adding pumpkin? That’s the fiber magic in action.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pumpkin Treats
Before you throw everything into a bowl, read this:
- Avoid pumpkin pie filling. It’s loaded with sugar and spices that can upset your dog’s stomach.
- Don’t go overboard. Too much pumpkin can cause loose stool.
- Stick to natural peanut butter. No added sugar or xylitol—it’s toxic to dogs.
FYI: Moderation’s the name of the game here. Even healthy treats are still treats.
Personal Note from the Kitchen
I’ll admit it—I’m a bit of a dog treat snob. After making dozens of batches (and cleaning up countless flour disasters), I can confidently say these pumpkin recipes are foolproof. My golden retriever, Max, loses his mind every time the oven door opens.
Honestly, there’s something satisfying about baking for your dog. It’s like you’re giving back all that love they shower on you daily—only this time, it smells like pumpkin pie.
And the best part? You know exactly what’s going into their food. No preservatives, no weird ingredients, just real stuff made with love (and a bit of dog hair, let’s be honest).
Conclusion
So there you have it—10 easy pumpkin dog treat recipes that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your dog’s tail wag nonstop. Whether you’re baking biscuits, freezing pops, or going no-bake lazy mode, each of these recipes packs nutrition and flavor your pup will adore.
Pumpkin really is that one ingredient that never disappoints—affordable, versatile, and dog-approved.
So go ahead, grab that can of pumpkin, and make your furry friend’s day. After all, nothing beats the look of pure joy on your dog’s face when you hand over a treat made with love.
And who knows? You might just end up sneaking one bite for yourself. (No judgment.)
I’m Pallab Kishore, the owner of Little Pets Realm — an animal lover and pet care enthusiast sharing easy tips, healthy recipes, and honest advice to help every small pet live a happy, healthy, tail-wagging life.