Pumpkin & Oat Bones For Dogs – Dog Treat Recipe
The holiday season isn’t just about us humans—it’s a perfect time to include our furry friends in the celebration. Dogs love treats as much as we do, and giving them something homemade shows love, care, and attention. These Pumpkin & Oat Bones are not only simple to make, but they also bring wholesome goodness in every bite. The aroma of pumpkin baking in the oven fills the kitchen with warmth, making the atmosphere cozy and festive.
They’re shaped like little bones, which makes them perfect for slipping into a dog stocking or gifting to a fellow dog lover. If you want an easy, budget-friendly, and dog-safe Christmas treat, these little delights hit every mark. Watching your pup’s tail wag as they enjoy them makes all the effort completely worth it.
Pumpkin & Oat Bones – Christmas Dog Treat Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 treats
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (blend some into oat flour)
- Unsweetened canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 egg
- Natural peanut butter (xylitol-free and unsweetened)
- Ground cinnamon (optional, tiny pinch)
- Ground ginger (optional, very small amount)
- Water (as needed to achieve the right dough texture)
- Optional add-ins: finely chopped parsley, unsweetened applesauce, or a splash of low-sodium bone broth
Instructions
These treats are intentionally made with simple, clean ingredients. No sugar, no artificial flavors, just the essentials that are safe for your dog. The recipe is highly adaptable—you can adjust the size of each treat, mix in safe spices like a pinch of cinnamon, or swap the flour to suit your pup’s digestive needs.
- Preheat and prep: Start by setting your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- Make oat flour: Place 2 cups of rolled oats into a food processor and pulse until they form a coarse flour. It doesn’t need to be perfectly fine; just enough to help bind the dough.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter until smooth. Sprinkle in a small pinch of cinnamon and ginger if desired.
- Form the dough: Gradually mix the oat flour into the wet ingredients. If the dough feels too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water. If it’s sticky, sprinkle in a handful of whole oats or a touch more oat flour. You’re aiming for a soft, workable dough that holds together without cracking.
- Roll and cut: Lightly flour your surface with oat flour. Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to make treats. Re-roll any scraps to avoid waste.
- Bake: Place the cut treats on the prepared sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes for slightly tender treats. For a crunchier texture, reduce the oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and dry.
- Cool completely: Let the treats rest on a wire rack. They firm up as they cool, making them safe for your pup.
- Test and treat: Offer one to your dog once cool and watch the enthusiasm. The happy tail wag is the best confirmation that you’ve done it right.
How to Store
Room temperature: Keep the treats in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Extend freshness for 1–2 weeks by storing in a sealed container.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tip: Place a small piece of parchment paper or a dry paper towel in the container to absorb moisture and keep the treats crisp.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Pumpkin power: Gentle on the stomach and full of fiber, pumpkin supports healthy digestion.
- Oat goodness: Naturally gluten-free, oats provide steady energy for active pups.
- Protein boost: Eggs help bind the dough while adding protein for muscle support.
- No junk: Free from added sugar, artificial colors, or preservatives.
- Sensitive-friendly: Minimal ingredients make it easier to avoid potential allergens or irritants.
Always check with your vet if your dog has specific allergies, but these treats are designed to suit most pups safely.
What Not to Do
- Don’t use pumpkin pie filling: It contains sugar and spices unsafe for dogs.
- Avoid peanut butter with xylitol: This is toxic and should never be given.
- Never serve hot treats: Let them cool completely to avoid burns.
- Limit spices: A tiny pinch of cinnamon is safe, but skip nutmeg entirely.
- Don’t rely on treats as meals: These are fun extras, not replacements for a balanced diet.
Recipe Variations
- Grain-free twist: Substitute oat flour with 1 cup almond flour + 1/4 cup coconut flour. Adjust water since coconut flour absorbs more moisture.
- Apple-pumpkin bones: Replace 1/4 cup pumpkin with unsweetened applesauce for a sweeter, fruity flavor.
- Minty breath bones: Add 1–2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley to help freshen your dog’s breath.
- Crunch-max version: After baking, turn off the oven and leave the treats inside for 30–45 minutes to dry further.
- Tiny training bites: Cut dough into small squares and bake 12–15 minutes for perfect small treats for rewards.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth, then let it cool completely. Ensure it’s plain with no added oil, salt, or spices. If it’s watery, drain some liquid before mixing.
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Plain, xylitol-free, and unsweetened peanut butter is fine in moderation. When in doubt, swap for pumpkin or mashed banana.
How many treats can my dog have?
Treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories. Small dogs can enjoy 1–2 treats, larger dogs 2–3. Adjust based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
My dough is crumbly—what should I do?
Add a teaspoon of water at a time and knead lightly until it holds together. The dough should be soft but firm enough to roll without cracking.
Can I make these without eggs?
Yes. Use 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin as a binder. The texture will differ slightly but remain tasty and workable.
Do I need a bone-shaped cutter?
No, any small cookie cutter works. You can also cut dough into squares or rectangles with a knife or pizza cutter.
Are these suitable for puppies or senior dogs?
Yes, just adjust the baking time for a softer texture. Always check with your vet for dogs with dental issues or dietary restrictions.
How do I make them extra festive?
Use fun cookie cutters like stars or trees, or tie a ribbon around a gift bag. Keep decorations away from your dog’s mouth—these are for presentation only.
Can I add cheese or meat?
Small amounts of finely shredded low-fat cheese or unseasoned cooked turkey can be mixed in. Keep additions minimal to maintain dough balance and shelf life.
Why did my treats soften after a day?
Moisture in the air can soften them. Re-crisp in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes, then cool completely before storing with a dry paper towel.
Final Thoughts of Pumpkin & Oat Bones For Dogs
Pumpkin & Oat Bones are the ultimate festive dog treat. They’re easy to make, wholesome, and packed with warm seasonal flavors. Whether you’re gifting a batch to a fellow dog owner or keeping them for your own pup, these treats are a simple, joyful way to celebrate the season. Keep a jar handy for winter walks, training sessions, or just-because moments—nothing beats seeing your dog’s happy, wagging tail after a treat well-earned.
