Pumpkin is a gentle, fiber-rich ingredient many pups tolerate well—and it bakes into delightfully crunchy dog biscuits your best friend will beg for. This recipe keeps things simple, wholesome, and budget-friendly with pantry staples you likely have on hand.
Dog-safe note: Use plain pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling). Choose xylitol-free peanut butter. When in doubt about your dog’s diet, check with your vet—especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with medical conditions. Avoid nutmeg.
Quick Recipe Card
- Recipe name: Healthy Pumpkin Dog Biscuits (Crunchy)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Bake time: 25–30 minutes
- Cool time: 20 minutes
- Yield: ~50 mini bones (or ~24 medium rounds)
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp xylitol-free natural peanut butter (optional but yummy)
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gentler tummies)
- ½ cup rolled oats, lightly pulsed (crunch + fiber)
- 1–3 tbsp water or low-sodium chicken broth, as needed
- Optional: ½ tsp ground cinnamon (dog-safe in small amounts)
Tools
Mixing bowl, spatula, rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, cookie cutter (bone/paw/round), cooling rack.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mix wet: In a bowl, whisk pumpkin, egg, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add dry: Fold in flour, pulsed oats, and cinnamon. Drizzle in water/broth 1 tbsp at a time until a firm, non-sticky dough forms.
- Roll & cut: Roll to 6–8 mm (¼ in) thickness. Cut into shapes and place on the sheet.
- Bake 25–30 minutes until firm and lightly golden at the edges.
- Extra crunch: Turn off oven, crack the door, and let biscuits dry inside for 10–15 minutes.
- Cool completely on a rack before serving or storing.
Why These Biscuits Are a Smart Choice
- Pumpkin: gentle fiber to support regular digestion, plus beta-carotene.
- Oats: extra fiber and satisfying crunch.
- Simple ingredients: you control what goes in—no artificial colors or added sugars.
- Crunch factor: baking + brief oven-drying makes them crisp and shelf-friendly.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temp: In an airtight jar for up to 7 days (cool, dry spot).
- Re-crisp hack: If they soften, bake at 150°C / 300°F for 5–7 minutes and cool.
- Freeze: Up to 3 months in zip bags. Thaw at room temp.
Variations (For Picky Pups or Sensitive Tummies)
- Grain-gentle: Replace whole wheat with oat flour (texture slightly softer).
- Grain-free: Try chickpea or coconut flour; add water as needed (these flours absorb differently).
- Apple crunch: Mix in 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce; reduce added water.
- Carrot confetti: Fold in 2–3 tbsp finely grated carrot for color and nutrients.
- Herb hint: A tiny pinch of dried parsley (fresh breath vibes).
Serving Size Guidelines
Treats should be occasional snacks, not meals. A rough guide:
- Toy/small dogs: 1–2 mini biscuits/day
- Medium dogs: 2–3 mini or 1–2 medium/day
- Large dogs: 2–3 medium/day
Adjust for your dog’s size, activity level, and total daily calories.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
- Dough too sticky? Add a spoonful of flour; rest 5 minutes to hydrate.
- Biscuits too soft? Roll thinner and/or extend oven-drying time.
- Uneven browning? Rotate the tray at the 15-minute mark.
- Glossy finish: Lightly brush with water before baking.
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin for dogs?
Yes—choose 100% pure pumpkin. Avoid pie filling (it contains sugar/spices).
Is cinnamon safe for dogs?
A small pinch of ground cinnamon is typically fine; never use nutmeg.
Can puppies have these treats?
Ask your vet first; introduce very small amounts and watch for sensitivities.
How do I make them extra crunchy?
Roll thinner and let them dry in the warm oven with the heat off for 10–15 minutes.
