Some dog treats are all about crunch, while others are about comfort and these Pumpkin Yogurt Dog Treats definitely fall into the comfort category. Soft, creamy, and gently cooling, they’re especially perfect for warm days or for dogs who prefer tender treats over crunchy biscuits.
Pumpkin supports healthy digestion, while yogurt adds probiotics that are great for gut health.
Together, they create a simple, nourishing treat that feels soothing and satisfying. Whether you freeze them for a refreshing snack or serve them chilled as a soft bite, these treats are a wonderful addition to your homemade dog treat rotation.
If you’re looking for a dog treat that’s easy to make, gentle on the stomach, and packed with natural goodness, this recipe is a must-try.
Why Pumpkin Is Perfect for Yogurt Treats
Pumpkin is one of the most dog-friendly ingredients you can use, especially in soft or chilled recipes.
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 vitamin A and antioxidants
Always use plain canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that are unsafe for dogs.
Is Yogurt Safe for Dogs?
Yes, plain, unsweetened yogurt is safe for dogs when used in moderation.
Benefits of Yogurt for Dogs
- Contains probiotics that support gut health
- Provides calcium for strong bones
- Adds creaminess without heavy fats
Important Yogurt Tips
- Use plain yogurt only
- Avoid flavored or sweetened yogurt
- Never use yogurt with artificial sweeteners like xylitol
If your dog is lactose-sensitive, you can use lactose-free yogurt or dog-safe coconut yogurt instead.
Why Homemade Pumpkin Yogurt Treats Are Better
Store-bought yogurt dog treats often contain stabilizers, added sugars, or artificial flavors. Making them at home keeps everything clean and simple.
Homemade treats allow you to:
- Control ingredient quality
- Skip sugar and preservatives
- Adjust portion sizes easily
- Customize texture (soft or frozen)
Plus, they take just minutes to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, dog-safe ingredients.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup plain canned pumpkin purée
- 1 cup plain unsweetened yogurt
Optional Add-Ins (Dog-Safe)
- 1 tablespoon mashed banana
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon honey (for adult dogs only)
💡 Keep it simple if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Silicone molds, ice cube tray, or small cups
- Refrigerator or freezer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix Pumpkin and Yogurt
In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée and yogurt. Stir until smooth and creamy, with no visible streaks.
In-Article Image Prompt 1:
A close-up of pumpkin purée and plain yogurt being mixed in a bowl with a spoon, soft natural daylight, cozy homemade dog treat aesthetic.
Step 2: Adjust Texture (Optional)
If you prefer a slightly thinner consistency, add a tablespoon of water and mix again. This helps when pouring into molds.
Step 3: Fill the Molds
Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray. Tap gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
You can make:
- Small portions for training treats
- Larger portions for longer-lasting snacks
Step 4: Chill or Freeze
Choose your preferred texture:
- Chilled treats: Refrigerate for 1–2 hours
- Frozen treats: Freeze for 3–4 hours, or until fully set
Frozen treats are especially refreshing during hot weather.
In-Article Image Prompt 2:
Pumpkin yogurt dog treat mixture being poured into silicone molds, clean minimal kitchen background, soft natural lighting.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Pop the treats out of the molds and serve one at a time. Always supervise your dog when giving frozen treats.
Serving Size Guide
Soft treats are still treats—moderation matters.
- Small dogs: 1 small treat per day
- Medium dogs: 1–2 treats per day
- Large dogs: 2–3 treats per day
Treats should stay within 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Storage Tips
- Store chilled treats in the refrigerator for 3–4 days
- Store frozen treats in an airtight container for up to 2 months
- Do not refreeze once thawed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using pumpkin pie filling
- ❌ Using flavored or sweetened yogurt
- ❌ Overfeeding frozen treats
- ❌ Giving honey to puppies under 1 year
Are Pumpkin Yogurt Treats Safe for Puppies?
Yes, these treats are generally puppy-friendly when:
- Made without honey
- Served in very small portions
- Introduced gradually
If your puppy is new to dairy, start with a small bite and observe.
Easy Variations to Try
Once your dog loves this recipe, try these gentle variations:
- Pumpkin Banana Yogurt Treats: Add mashed banana
- Pumpkin Blueberry Yogurt Treats: Add mashed blueberries
- Pumpkin Coconut Yogurt Treats: Use dog-safe coconut yogurt
Each variation keeps things interesting while staying dog-safe.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Yogurt Dog Treats are soft, soothing, and incredibly easy to make. They’re perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, warm weather days, or pet parents who want a quick, wholesome homemade option.
Once you make a batch, don’t be surprised if your dog learns exactly where you keep the yogurt. 🎃🐾
Also read on Apple Oat No-Bake Treats for Dogs
