Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
One day, you rip open a can of biscuits bought from a store and you realize the list of ingredients seems like a tough subject you are not prepared for.
Preservatives which you cannot spell, fillers which you cannot recognize and a small chemical smell which makes your forehead wrinkled.
Let’s change that with just two ingredients that you would definitely eat yourself, no additives hidden and your kitchen smelling like delicious.
Let’s make this!
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade pumpkin and oat dog cookie recipe is super easy.
- It takes just 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook.
- You’ll get about 24-30 small cookies, perfect for treating.
- These treats are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
- They’re packed with fiber, vitamins, and are totally natural.
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Ingredients List
- Canned Pumpkin Puree (not pie filling) – 1 cup (about $2.50)
- Rolled Oats (old-fashioned) – 2 cups (about $3.00)
Total Estimated Cost: $5.50
Substitutions:
- Instead of pumpkin puree, you can use mashed sweet potato or butternut squash.
- For oats, regular rolled oats are best, but quick oats can work too, just be careful with the consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and rolled oats together.
- Keep mixing until it forms a stiff dough.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more oats, a tablespoon at a time.
- If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more pumpkin.
- Scoop small amounts of dough, about a teaspoon each.
- Roll them into balls, then flatten them slightly into cookie shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are firm and lightly golden.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack before giving them to your dog.
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Feeding Guidelines
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 cookies per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 cookies per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 cookies per day.
- Puppies or very active dogs might need a little more.
- Older or less active dogs should have fewer treats to avoid weight gain.
- Always talk to your vet to figure out the best feeding plan for your dog.
- Treats should only make up a small part of their daily calories.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Pumpkin is loaded with fiber, which is great for digestion.
- It also has Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.
- Oats are a good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
- They provide soluble fiber, which helps keep blood sugar steady.
- These cookies offer essential vitamins and minerals without any weird additives.
- They’re low in fat and free of common allergens like wheat and corn.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store these cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.
- You can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw frozen cookies in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a bit.
- Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed for an extra treat.
- They also work well crumbled over kibble to add some flavor.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
My dough is too sticky. What should I do?
Just add a little more rolled oats, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. It shouldn’t stick much to your hands.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can. Quick oats absorb liquid faster, so you might need slightly less pumpkin puree. Start with 1.5 cups of quick oats and adjust from there.
Are these treats good for dogs with allergies?
Yes, they are! This recipe uses only two simple ingredients, making it great for dogs with common food sensitivities. Always check with your vet if your dog has specific allergies.
How can I make these treats last longer?
Bake them a bit longer at a lower temperature (around 300°F for 30-40 minutes) to make them harder and more dehydrated. This extends their shelf life at room temperature, but refrigeration is always safest.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
See how easy it is to give your dog healthy, homemade treats? These pumpkin and oat cookies are simple, nutritious, and your dog will absolutely love them.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
