Pumpkin plus peanut butter and oats = an easy, wholesome win. These 3-ingredient dog treats bake up crisp at the edges, slightly chewy inside, and smell like cozy fall—without any added sugar or mystery ingredients.
Quick Recipe Card
- Recipe: 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Dog Treats
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Bake: 20–28 minutes
- Yield: ~40 mini bones (or ~20 medium rounds)
Ingredients (Just 3!)
- 1 cup 100% pumpkin puree (245 g; not pie filling)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (120 g; xylitol-free)
- 2 to 2½ cups oat flour (220–275 g) — make your own by blending rolled oats
Note: If the dough seems dry, add 1–2 tsp water only if needed (not counted as an ingredient).
Tools
Mixing bowl, spatula, rolling pin, cookie cutter (bone/paw/round), parchment-lined baking sheet, cooling rack.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mix wet: Stir pumpkin and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add dry: Fold in 2 cups oat flour. If sticky, add extra flour 1 tbsp at a time until a firm, non-sticky dough forms.
- Roll & cut: Lightly flour surface with oat flour. Roll dough to 6 mm / ¼ in. Cut shapes and place on the sheet.
- Bake 20–24 min for softer centers, 24–28 min for crunchier treats.
- Extra crunch: Turn off oven, crack the door, and let biscuits dry inside 10–15 min. Cool completely.
Texture Guide
- Softer (training bites): Roll slightly thicker, bake 20–22 min.
- Crunchier (longer-lasting): Roll thinner, bake 26–28 min, then oven-dry 10–15 min.
Why These Treats Work
- Pumpkin offers gentle fiber and beta-carotene.
- Oat flour is typically well-tolerated and easy to make at home.
- Peanut butter brings flavor and helps bind (choose xylitol-free).
Dog-safe reminder: Use plain pumpkin puree and xylitol-free peanut butter. Avoid nutmeg. When in doubt, check with your vet—especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room temp: Airtight jar up to 1 week (cool, dry spot).
- Freeze: Up to 3 months in zip bags; thaw at room temp.
- Re-crisp: 150°C / 300°F for 5–7 min, then cool.
Optional (Keeps It Mostly 3-Ingredient)
- Scent boost: Pinch of ground cinnamon (dog-safe in tiny amounts).
- Add-in: 1–2 tbsp finely grated carrot for color (adjust flour as needed).
- Gluten-free note: Oats are naturally gluten-free but can be contaminated—use certified GF oats if needed.
Serving Size (General Guide)
- Toy/small dogs: 1–2 mini treats/day
- Medium dogs: 2–3 mini or 1–2 medium/day
- Large dogs: 2–3 medium/day
Adjust for total calories and activity.
Troubleshooting
- Crumbly dough? Add 1–2 tsp water or a touch more pumpkin.
- Sticky dough? Knead in more oat flour; rest 5 minutes.
- Pale color? Bake a few minutes longer; they should be matte and firm.
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?
No. It contains sugar and spices. Use 100% pumpkin puree only.
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Yes, if it’s xylitol-free and unsweetened. Always check the label.
Can I swap oat flour?
Yes—try whole wheat flour (texture changes slightly). Add liquid or flour as needed to keep dough firm.
