A Little Story to Start
The first time I opened a can of pumpkin in my kitchen, my dog trotted in like he owned the place. One sniff and his tail started doing that happy helicopter spin. When I mixed in applesauce, he sat right at my feet, eyes wide, waiting for his taste test.
These Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats bring that same cozy, sweet smell that pups adore. They’re soft, gentle on the tummy, and feel like a warm hug in treat form.
Table of Contents
- What Makes These Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats Special
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Treat Portion Guide by Dog Weight
- Storage Tips
- Nutritional Benefits
- FAQs
- Final Tail-Wagging Note
What Makes These Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats Special
Dogs love the warm, sweet scent of pumpkin and apples. These treats have a soft, chewy texture that works well for puppies, seniors, and sensitive tummies. They’re perfect for training rewards or cozy fall baking days with your furry helper.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plain canned pumpkin | 1 cup |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ½ cup |
| Oat flour (or whole-wheat flour) | 2 ½ cups |
| Egg | 1 |
| Cinnamon (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
How to Make Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats
1. Mix the wet ingredients
Stir the pumpkin, applesauce, and egg in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the flour
Slowly add the oat flour and mix. The dough should be soft and not too sticky.
3. Roll and cut the dough
Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thick. Use cookie cutters or a simple knife to create fun shapes.
4. Bake until firm
Place the treats on a lined baking tray and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges begin to firm up.
5. Cool completely
Let the treats cool fully. Your dog will be waiting nearby for the first bite.
Treat Portion Guide (By Dog Weight)
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | ½–1 treat | 1 |
| 20–50 lbs | 1–2 treats | 2 |
| 50+ lbs | 2–3 treats | 3 |
Note: Adjust portions if your dog has dietary needs. When in doubt, ask your vet.
How to Store Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats
Room temperature: Keep in an airtight jar for 1 week.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Making a larger batch works great when you freeze half for later.
Nutritional Benefits
These Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats offer gentle, natural goodness.
- Pumpkin provides fiber that supports digestion.
- Applesauce adds vitamins A and C for immune and skin health.
- Oat flour is soft on the tummy and provides steady energy.
- Egg adds protein and healthy fats.
- Cinnamon adds a warm aroma and is safe in very small amounts.
FAQs About Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats
1. Can I make these grain-free?
Yes. You can use coconut or rice flour, but you may need to add more applesauce because these flours absorb moisture differently.
2. Are Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats safe for puppies?
They are safe as long as you offer very small pieces and skip the cinnamon for very young pups.
3. Can I use fresh pumpkin or apples?
Yes. You can steam and mash fresh pumpkin or cook and puree peeled apples with no added sugar.
4. Why did my treats turn out dry?
You may have added too much flour. Add a small spoonful of applesauce or water next time to soften the dough.
5. Can I add extras like peanut butter or carrots?
Yes. Xylitol-free peanut butter, grated carrots, or a pinch of turmeric make great add-ins.
Final Tail-Wagging Note
Baking for your dog is a simple way to show love. These Pumpkin Applesauce Dog Treats bring warm smells, happy sniffs, and lots of wagging. Have fun making them, and enjoy every moment with your pup.
If you’d like a crunchy version, a grain-free rewrite, or a printable card for this recipe, I can create that too.