Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Rounds – Homemade Dog Treats

If you’re looking for a treat that will make your dog’s tail wag like crazy, these Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Rounds are a game-changer. They’re soft, bite-sized, and ridiculously easy to make. You don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets or complicated techniques—just a few wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The smell of peanut butter and pumpkin baking together is enough to make you excited too, and watching your dog’s eyes light up when you pull them out of the oven? Absolutely priceless.

These treats are perfect for dogs who love peanut butter. Seriously, the first time I made them, my pup practically hovered around the kitchen the whole baking time, and by the time they cooled, she could barely wait for her first bite. The combination of pumpkin’s gentle fiber and peanut butter’s irresistible flavor makes these rounds both delicious and good for digestion.

Prep Time & Ingredients

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: About 24 treats

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsweetened pumpkin puree – not pumpkin pie mix, because that has sugar and spices your dog doesn’t need.
  
• Natural peanut butter – make sure it’s xylitol-free; ideally, it’s just peanuts and maybe a little salt.
  
• 1 egg
  
• Old-fashioned rolled oats (or quick oats if that’s what you have)
  
• Whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a softer, more digestible option)
  
• Optional: ground flaxseed for fiber and omega benefits
  
• Optional: a tiny pinch of cinnamon for aroma (skip if your vet recommends avoiding it)
  
• Water – just enough to adjust dough consistency
  

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze, and nothing sticks.
   
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Grab a medium bowl and whisk together 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and 1 egg until it’s smooth and creamy. You’ll get that rich, nutty aroma instantly.
   
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup rolled oats and 3/4 cup whole wheat flour. If you’re adding flaxseed or cinnamon, toss them in now. Your dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little flour, one tablespoon at a time. Too dry? Add a teaspoon of water at a time.
   
4. Shape the Treats: Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place it on the baking sheet and gently flatten it to about 1/4–1/3 inch thick. Space each round about an inch apart so they bake evenly.
   
5. Bake: Pop them in the oven for 14–18 minutes. If you like softer treats, aim closer to 14 minutes. For a firmer texture with a slight crunch on the edges, push it toward 18 minutes.
   
6. Cool: Let the rounds rest on the sheet for five minutes, then move them to a cooling rack. They need to be completely cool before your dog digs in.
   
7. Serve: Portion according to your dog’s size—1–2 treats for small dogs, 2–3 for medium, and up to 4 for large dogs. Remember, treats should never exceed 10% of their daily calories.
   

Storage Instructions

These treats keep well and are easy to store:

• Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  
• Refrigerator: They’ll last 7–10 days in a sealed container.
  
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw a few at a time in the fridge or on the counter.
  

A small trick I use is putting a piece of paper towel in the container to absorb extra moisture. It keeps the rounds from getting too soft or sticky, maintaining that perfect bite.

Benefits of This Recipe

What I love about these rounds is how much they actually benefit your dog while tasting amazing:

• Digestive Support: Pumpkin provides gentle fiber to help with regularity, which is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
  
• Simple, Recognizable Ingredients: You know exactly what’s going into your dog’s treats—no fillers, preservatives, or mystery additives.
  
• Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry items, you can make a generous batch without spending much.
  
• Customizable Texture: Bake them a little longer for crunch, or pull them sooner for soft, chewy treats.
  
• Easy to Digest: Oats and pumpkin are gentle on the tummy, so even senior dogs or picky eaters can enjoy them safely.
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade dog treats is simple, but a few pitfalls can ruin them:

• Using Sweetened or Flavored Peanut Butter: Always check labels for xylitol, sugar, or artificial sweeteners—xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.
  
• Accidentally Grabbing Pumpkin Pie Mix: It contains sugar and spices dogs don’t need. Stick to plain pumpkin puree.
  
• Overbaking: This can make the treats hard and dry. Keep an eye on the edges and tops.
  
• Skipping the Cool-Down: Hot treats can burn your dog’s mouth, so patience is key.
  
• Ignoring Portion Sizes: Remember, treats are a bonus, not the main course. Keep them under 10% of daily calories.
  

Recipe Variations

You can tweak the recipe depending on your dog’s needs or preferences:

• Grain-Free Option: Swap the flour for oat flour or a mix of oat and coconut flour. Add water as needed since coconut flour absorbs moisture differently.
  
• Crunchier Rounds: Flatten thinner and bake 3–5 minutes longer. Leaving the oven door slightly open helps dry them further.
  
• Banana Boost: Replace 1/4 cup pumpkin with mashed banana for natural sweetness and extra potassium.
  
• Mini Training Bites: Make small, nickel-sized rounds for quick training rewards. Bake slightly less for a soft texture.
  
• Peanut-Free Alternative: Use unsalted sunflower seed butter if your dog can’t have peanuts, making sure it’s xylitol-free.
  
• Herb Hint: A tiny pinch of dried parsley can help freshen breath. Avoid garlic and onion, which are unsafe.
  

FAQ

• Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling? No. It contains sugar and spices that aren’t safe for dogs. Stick to plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree.
  
• Is peanut butter safe for all dogs? Most dogs can enjoy it in small amounts, but always choose xylitol-free varieties. Dogs with pancreatitis or special diets should get a vet’s approval first.
  
• How many treats per day? Keep them under 10% of daily calories. Small dogs: 1–2 treats; larger dogs: a few more depending on activity and diet.
  
• Can I make these without eggs? Yes. Use 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree plus 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons water. Expect slightly softer texture.
  
• Can I use these as training treats? Definitely. Make quarter-size rounds and bake softer for quick, frequent rewards.
  
• How do I know when they’re done? The tops should be dry, edges set, and a gentle press should make the dough spring back slightly.
  
• Can I add meat or cheese? Small amounts of shredded low-fat cheese are fine but may shorten shelf life. Avoid meat unless refrigerated or frozen immediately.
  
• What if my dog is sensitive to wheat? Use oat flour alone or mixed with a bit of coconut flour. Adjust water for consistency.
  
• How long will they last? Room temp: 3 days; fridge: 7–10 days; freezer: up to 3 months. Always check for mold or off smells before feeding.
  

In Conclusion of Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Rounds

Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Rounds are simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying for dogs. With a short ingredient list, easy steps, and plenty of ways to customize size, texture, and flavor, these treats are perfect for any weekend baking session. Store extras for quick rewards throughout the week, keep portions reasonable, and always use safe, clean ingredients. Your dog will be waiting by the oven the next time you make them, ready for every bite.