Homemade Dehydrator Dog Treats Recipe With Pumpkin Leathers & Oats

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Ever look at those store-bought dog treats and wonder what’s actually inside? A lot of them have weird fillers, artificial stuff, and preservatives that just aren’t great, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.

It’s hard to know what’s safe or even healthy for your pup, but you really don’t have to guess.

Here’s a super easy recipe for homemade dehydrated pumpkin and oat treats. They’re simple, full of real ingredients, and honestly, dogs go nuts for them.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrator dog treat recipe is all about simple, natural ingredients.
• It takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then the dehydrator does all the work, usually 6-10 hours.
• This recipe makes about 20-30 treats, depending on how you cut them.
• These treats are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who need a low-fat, high-fiber snack.

Ingredients List

• 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) – Estimated cost: $1.50 – $2.50
• 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant) – Estimated cost: $0.75 – $1.00
• 1/4 cup water (or low-sodium, dog-safe chicken or vegetable broth) – Estimated cost: $0.00 – $0.50
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (check with your vet first) – Estimated cost: $0.05

Total Estimated Cost: $2.25 – $4.05

Suitable substitutions: If you don’t have pumpkin, you could try pureed sweet potato. For oats, quinoa flakes might work in a pinch, but the texture will be different.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Get your dehydrator ready. Line the trays with non-stick sheets or parchment paper.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, rolled oats, water (or broth), and cinnamon if you’re using it.
• Mix everything well until it forms a thick paste. The oats should be evenly distributed.
• Spread the mixture thinly and evenly onto the lined dehydrator trays. Aim for about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.
• You can use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out.
• Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 6-10 hours, or until the pumpkin leather is completely dry and pliable, not sticky.
• The drying time will depend on your dehydrator and the thickness of your spread.
• Halfway through, you might need to flip the leathers and remove the non-stick sheets for more even drying.
• Once completely dry, let the leathers cool completely.
• Cut the cooled leathers into bite-sized pieces or strips using kitchen shears or a knife.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 small treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 small treats per day.
• These are treats, not a meal replacement.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
• For puppies, seniors, or dogs with specific health conditions, always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on portion sizes.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
• It’s also a good source of Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), Vitamin C, and Potassium.
• Oats provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and are a great source of soluble fiber, supporting heart health and digestion.
• They are also naturally gluten-free, making them good for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
• These treats are low in fat and contain no added sugars or artificial ingredients.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once dehydrated and cooled, store these treats in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
• Serve these treats as a healthy snack or a reward during training.
• They are a great alternative to store-bought, high-calorie options.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s cooked and pureed without any added spices or sugar. Roast or steam fresh pumpkin until soft, then blend it.

My treats aren’t getting completely dry. What should I do?

Make sure your pumpkin mixture is spread very thinly and evenly on the trays. Increase the dehydrating time or slightly raise the temperature if your dehydrator allows. Sometimes flipping the leathers helps with drying too.

Are these treats safe for puppies?

Generally, yes, in moderation. Pumpkin and oats are gentle on sensitive tummies. Always introduce new foods slowly and check with your vet, especially for very young puppies.

What if my dog doesn’t like pumpkin?

Some dogs can be picky. You can try substituting with pureed sweet potato, which has similar benefits and a slightly different taste. Or, try mixing a small amount with their favorite treat to introduce the flavor gradually.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade dehydrated pumpkin and oat treats is a simple way to show your dog some love with a healthy, natural snack. You’ll feel good knowing exactly what they’re eating. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!