Easy Homemade Dog Training Treats Using Pumpkin Puree & Flaxseed

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.

Sick of wondering what’s actually in those treats you buy for your dog? All those strange ingredients and fillers. Who knows if they’re any good, or if they’re even helping with training.

So many store-bought treats are full of stuff your dog doesn’t need. Honestly, it just makes picking out healthy rewards way harder than it should be.

But you don’t have to settle. You can whip up delicious, effective dog training treats at home without any hassle.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade pumpkin and flaxseed training treat recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of bake time.
• It yields about 60 small treats, perfect for multiple training sessions.
• These treats are packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins, making them excellent for digestion and coat health.
• They are grain-free and ideal for dogs with common food sensitivities.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling) – Estimated cost: $1.50
• 1/2 cup finely ground flaxseed meal – Estimated cost: $2.00
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – Estimated cost: $0.50
• 1 large egg – Estimated cost: $0.30
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (for dusting, optional) – Estimated cost: $0.20

Total Estimated Cost: $4.50

Substitutions:

• If your dog has a wheat allergy, use a gluten-free flour alternative like oat flour or rice flour for dusting.
• For a slightly different flavor profile, you can swap a quarter of the pumpkin puree for mashed sweet potato.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ground flaxseed meal, applesauce, and egg.
• Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and a thick dough forms.
• If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a tiny bit more flaxseed meal, one teaspoon at a time.
• Lightly dust a clean surface with a small amount of whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative.
• Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently roll it to about 1/4-inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (about 1-inch diameter) or a knife to cut the dough into treat shapes.
• Place the cut treats onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and slightly golden brown around the edges.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This helps them firm up and become chewy.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 2-4 treats per day during training sessions.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 4-8 treats per day, adjusting based on activity.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): Provide 8-12 treats daily, especially for active training.
• For puppies, break treats into smaller pieces. Remember that puppies need higher caloric intake, so these can be a good supplement.
• For senior dogs, these soft treats are easy to chew and the fiber helps digestion. Adjust quantity to prevent weight gain as their metabolism slows.
• Always consider your dog’s overall diet and activity level. These are treats, not a meal replacement.
• And here’s the thing: always check with your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has any health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Pumpkin Puree: This provides excellent fiber for digestive health, helping with both constipation and diarrhea. It’s also rich in Vitamin A (beta-carotene) for vision and immunity, and Vitamin C for immune support.
• Ground Flaxseed Meal: A powerhouse of Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for a healthy skin and a shiny coat. It also offers lignans, which have antioxidant properties, and more dietary fiber to support gut regularity.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness without added sugars and provides additional fiber and vitamins like Vitamin C.
• Egg: A complete protein source, offering all essential amino acids for muscle development and repair. It also contains choline for brain health and various vitamins and minerals.
• This recipe ensures a good balance of complex carbohydrates from the pumpkin, healthy fats from the flaxseed, and quality protein from the egg, supporting sustained energy and overall well-being during training.

Storage and Serving Tips

• These homemade training treats will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• To thaw frozen treats, simply move them to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for an hour.
• Serve these treats at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
• You can also break larger treats into smaller pieces for very small dogs or for very frequent rewards during intense training sessions.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, definitely not. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can be harmful to dogs. Always use plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree.

My dog is allergic to eggs. What can I use as a binder?

You can try a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) as an egg substitute. It won’t be quite the same texture but can still work as a binder.

How do I know if the treats are fully cooked?

The treats should be firm to the touch and slightly golden brown on the edges. They won’t be hard like a biscuit but should have a chewy texture. If they feel too soft, bake for another 5 minutes.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes, you can. You might add a pinch of cinnamon for flavor (dog-safe in small amounts) or a tablespoon of finely chopped, dog-safe herbs like parsley. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and in small quantities.

Wrapping Up

Making your own pumpkin and flaxseed training treats is a simple way to give your dog healthy, delicious rewards. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and you know exactly what’s in them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Training Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!