Last December, instead of rushing through crowded stores, I spent an afternoon baking treats for the pups in my neighborhood. I packed each batch in small tins with paw-print tags. When I handed them out, the smiles on the dog parents’ faces made my day. The wagging tails made it even better. A homemade Christmas Gift brings joy to both people and pets.
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Why Homemade Dog Treats Make the Perfect Christmas Gift
Giving homemade treats as a Christmas Gift feels warm and thoughtful. You know exactly what goes into each cookie, and pups enjoy the natural flavors. These treats feel personal, festive, and perfect for dog lovers who appreciate something homemade.
Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Holiday Bones
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Oat flour | 2 cups |
| Pumpkin purée (unsweetened) | ½ cup |
| Peanut butter (xylitol-free) | ¼ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Cinnamon (optional) | ½ tsp |
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the pumpkin, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
- Add the oat flour and cinnamon and stir until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and cut bone or tree shapes.
- Bake for 15 minutes until the edges are firm.
- Cool completely before wrapping as a Christmas Gift.
Cranberry Oat Christmas Gift Cookies
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Oat flour | 1 ½ cups |
| Rolled oats | ½ cup |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ½ cup |
| Chopped unsweetened cranberries | ⅓ cup |
| Coconut oil (melted) | 1 tbsp |
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Stir the applesauce and coconut oil together.
- Add the flour, oats, and cranberries and mix well.
- Roll out the dough and cut star or snowflake shapes.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool before preparing them as a Christmas Gift.
Creative Packaging Ideas
Mason jars with twine and handwritten tags
Holiday tins for families with multiple dogs
Cellophane bags tied with simple ribbons
DIY gift tags with the dog’s name
Mini baskets that pair treats with a small toy
Nutrition Highlights
Wholesome and dog-safe ingredients
No chocolate, nutmeg, or unsafe additives
Festive flavors like pumpkin, cranberry, and oats
Fun shapes fit for a Christmas Gift
Recipe Customizations
Swap pumpkin for sweet potato
Use blueberries instead of cranberries
Roll thinner for crunchy treats
Add beet powder for natural red coloring
Extended Storage Tips
Room temperature storage for 7–10 days in airtight containers
Refrigerator storage for up to 2 weeks
Freezer storage for up to 2 months with parchment between layers
For gifting, include a small note about refrigerating for freshness
Serving Guide by Dog Size
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | ½–1 small treat | 1–2 |
| 20–50 lbs | 1–2 treats | 2–3 |
| Over 50 lbs | 2–3 treats | 3–4 |
Treats should be no more than 10 percent of daily calories.
Health Benefits
Pumpkin gives fiber for digestion
Peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats
Cranberries provide antioxidants
Oats are gentle on sensitive stomachs
Applesauce adds natural moisture
FAQs
Can these Christmas Gift treats be made ahead of time?
Yes. Both recipes freeze well for up to two months.
Can I use wheat flour instead of oat flour?
You can, unless the dog has a wheat sensitivity.
Are cranberries safe for dogs?
Yes, as long as they are plain and unsweetened.
Can I wrap these treats while they are still warm?
No. Warm treats create moisture which can cause mold.
How can I ship homemade dog treats as a Christmas Gift?
Use airtight tins or vacuum sealing for best results.
Final Happy Takeaway
A homemade Christmas Gift made with simple, fresh ingredients is a sweet way to make the holidays special for every dog and dog parent. These treats are easy to bake, fun to package, and filled with love.