Pumpkin and peanut butter is one of those combinations dogs seem to love instantly. Pumpkin brings gentle digestion support and natural fiber, while peanut butter adds rich flavor and healthy fats that make treats feel extra special. Together, they create a comforting, homemade snack your dog will happily sit for every time.
These Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats are soft, nourishing, and easy to make with just a handful of dog-safe ingredients. They’re perfect for everyday rewards, training sessions, or dogs who prefer softer treats especially puppies and seniors.
Best of all, they’re made without added sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
If you’re looking for a reliable homemade dog treat that’s both healthy and crowd-pleasing (at least in dog terms), this recipe is a must-have.
Why Pumpkin Is So Good for Dogs
Pumpkin is one of the most recommended ingredients for dogs, especially when it comes to digestion.
Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
- High in fiber for digestive balance
- Helps with both constipation and loose stools
- Low in calories and fat
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and E
Always use plain canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices unsafe for dogs.
Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?
Yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when chosen carefully and used in moderation.
Peanut Butter Safety Tips
- Use only natural, unsweetened peanut butter
- Never use peanut butter containing xylitol
- Avoid added salt, sugar, or artificial sweeteners
Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs
- Healthy fats for skin and coat
- Protein for muscle support
- A flavor dogs find irresistible
In this recipe, peanut butter also helps bind the dough and enhances taste without needing extra ingredients.
Why Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Treats Are Better
Many store-bought pumpkin dog treats contain fillers, flavor enhancers, or preservatives. Making them at home keeps things simple and transparent.
Homemade treats allow you to:
- Control ingredient quality
- Adjust texture for your dog’s needs
- Skip sugar and additives entirely
- Bake fresh batches anytime
Plus, the smell of pumpkin and peanut butter baking is guaranteed to get your dog’s attention.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, dog-safe ingredients you may already have.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup plain canned pumpkin purée
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 egg
- 1½ cups oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats)
- 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed)
Optional Add-Ins (Dog-Safe)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon mashed banana
💡 If your dog has grain sensitivities, oat flour is a gentle option.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Cookie cutters or knife
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set it aside.
In-Article Image Prompt 1:
A cozy home kitchen scene with an oven preheating and a parchment-lined baking tray on a wooden countertop, soft natural daylight, warm neutral tones.
Step 2: Mix Pumpkin and Peanut Butter
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin purée and peanut butter. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack in the egg and mix thoroughly until the mixture looks creamy and uniform.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the oat flour. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels dry or crumbly, add water one tablespoon at a time until it becomes soft but not sticky.
The dough should be easy to handle and slightly moist.
In-Article Image Prompt 2:
Pumpkin peanut butter dog treat dough being mixed in a bowl with a wooden spoon, warm orange color, rustic homemade kitchen style.
Step 5: Shape the Treats
You can shape the treats in two simple ways:
- Roll small balls of dough and flatten gently
- Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes
Place the treats onto the prepared baking tray with a little space between each.
Step 6: Bake Until Set
Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the treats.
- For softer treats, remove closer to 15 minutes
- For firmer treats, bake closer to 20 minutes
They should be set and lightly golden but not hard.
In-Article Image Prompt 3:
Homemade pumpkin peanut butter dog treats baking in an oven, warm golden glow, comforting homemade atmosphere.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Remove the treats from the oven and allow them to cool fully on a wire rack. They will firm up slightly as they cool.
Never give warm treats to your dog.
Serving Size Guide
Even healthy treats should be given in moderation.
- Small dogs: 1–2 small treats per day
- Medium dogs: 2–3 treats per day
- Large dogs: 3–4 treats per day
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Storage Tips
Because these treats are softer, proper storage is important.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Keeps fresh for 7–10 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
Thaw frozen treats completely before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using peanut butter with xylitol
- ❌ Adding sugar, honey, or syrup
- ❌ Overbaking until treats become dry
- ❌ Feeding too many treats at once
Are Pumpkin Peanut Butter Treats Safe for Puppies?
Yes! These treats are especially puppy-friendly because they’re:
- Soft and easy to chew
- Gentle on developing stomachs
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
Break treats into small pieces and introduce slowly.
Easy Variations to Try
Once your dog loves this recipe, try these gentle variations:
- Pumpkin Banana Treats: Add mashed banana
- Pumpkin Oat Soft Bites: Skip rolling and drop spoonfuls
- Frozen Pumpkin Peanut Butter Bites: Skip baking and freeze instead
These options keep treat time fun while staying dog-safe.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats are soft, flavorful, and packed with ingredients dogs genuinely enjoy. They’re easy to make, kind to sensitive stomachs, and perfect for everyday treating.
Once you bake a batch, don’t be surprised if your dog suddenly knows exactly where you keep the pumpkin can. 🎃🐾
Also read on Blueberry Oat Dog Biscuits
