Homemade Dog Treats Recipe With Salmon & Pumpkin

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 a bag of dog food and feel like you need a science degree just to understand what’s inside? All those unpronounceable ingredients and fillers, who knows what your dog’s actually eating?

No wonder their stomachs get upset or their coats lose that healthy shine. It’s stressful, always second-guessing what you’re feeding them. But you don’t have to overthink it. Making real, healthy food at home is way easier than it sounds.

That’s why we put together this Homemade Dog Treats Recipe with Salmon and Pumpkin. It’s simple, packed with good stuff, and your dog will love it. Happier pup, less worry for you.

Recipe Overview

This recipe creates bite-sized, soft-baked treats perfect for training or as a daily snack.

It balances high-quality protein from salmon with essential fiber from pumpkin and whole wheat, supporting skin health and digestion.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30-40 medium treats
• Key Benefit: Supports joint health, boosts Omega-3 intake, and aids sensitive digestion.

Ingredients List

All ingredients are human-grade and safe for canine consumption. We focused on simple items you can find easily.

• 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (not pie filling): $1.50
• 1 (14.75 oz) can Salmon, drained and mashed (ensure bones are softened or removed): $3.50
• 2 large Eggs, lightly beaten: $0.40
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: $0.20
• 2 cups Whole Wheat Flour (or gluten-free oat flour for sensitivities): $0.80
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder: $0.05
• 1/2 cup Rolled Oats (optional, adds fiber): $0.15

Total Estimated Cost: $6.60

Suitable Substitutions: You can substitute the canned salmon with a 6 oz can of sardines in water (drained) for a different Omega-3 profile. If your dog is allergic to wheat, oat flour works perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these treats is fast and requires just one bowl. Preheat your oven and gather your ingredients before starting.

• Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients: the pumpkin puree, mashed salmon, beaten eggs, and olive oil. Stir well until they are fully integrated.
• Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and rolled oats (if using).
• Step 4: Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a firm, manageable dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but shouldn’t stick to your hands completely.
• Step 5: Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to about a 1/4 inch thickness. Use a small cookie cutter (or a knife to cut squares) to shape the treats.
• Step 6: Place the shapes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the treats feel firm to the touch.
• Step 7: Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. Cooling them fully helps them maintain their shape and texture.

Feeding Guidelines

These are supplemental treats, meaning they should not replace your dog’s main, balanced diet. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 to 2 treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 2 to 3 treats per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3 to 5 treats per day.
• Activity Variations: Highly active dogs might tolerate a few more treats, but always adjust downward if weight gain is noticed.
• Puppies and Seniors: Puppies and seniors with dental issues benefit from the soft texture. However, consult your vet before adding new supplements to a puppy’s strict growth diet.

If you are unsure of the right serving size for your pet, especially if they have existing health conditions or are overweight, check with your veterinarian first. They can give the most personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a specific health purpose for your dog.

• Salmon: Excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These fats are crucial for reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and promoting a shiny, healthy coat and skin.
• Pumpkin Puree: A powerhouse of soluble fiber. This helps regulate bowel movements, making it great for both diarrhea and constipation. It also contains Vitamins A and C.
• Whole Wheat Flour/Oats: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and additional dietary fiber, supporting overall gut health.
• Eggs: A complete protein source, offering essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, cell growth, and immune function.
• Olive/Coconut Oil: Provides easily digestible fats that support nutrient absorption and add palatability.

These treats are naturally balanced for an adult dog’s supplemental needs, offering a blend of protein, healthy fats, and necessary fiber.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is essential to maintain freshness and safety, as this recipe contains no artificial preservatives.

• Refrigeration: Store cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled treats for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they are fully cool before freezing to prevent condensation.
• Reheating: To serve frozen treats, let them thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours. Do not microwave the treats as it can change the texture and cause burns.
• Serving Suggestions: These are soft and moist, making them easy to break into smaller training pieces. You can also crumble them over dry kibble to encourage fussy eaters.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, absolutely. If you use fresh salmon, ensure it is thoroughly cooked without any seasoning, salt, or oil, then flake it before mixing it into the dough. Canned salmon is convenient and usually pre-cooked.

Do I need to add a vitamin supplement to this recipe?

Since this is a treat recipe and not a complete meal replacement, you do not need to add a full vitamin/mineral supplement. Treats are meant to supplement a balanced commercial or veterinarian-approved diet. If you were feeding this as a main meal, a canine vitamin and mineral supplement would be required for nutritional completeness.

What if my dog is allergic to fish?

If your dog cannot tolerate fish, replace the salmon with cooked ground turkey or chicken breast. Make sure the meat is lean and unseasoned, and use the same measurement (about 1 cup once cooked and flaked).

Why did my treats turn out dry and crumbly?

This usually happens if you used too much flour or baked them for too long. If your dough seemed dry, next time reduce the flour slightly or add an extra tablespoon of pumpkin puree. Check the treats closer to the 20-minute mark to ensure they remain moist inside.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog homemade treats is a great way to control exactly what they eat, boosting their health with Omega-3s and fiber. It’s easy, affordable, and your dog will love the taste. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!