How to Make Dog Treats with Pumpkin: 4 Easy Recipes Your Pup Will Love

You open your pantry, spot that can of pumpkin puree from Thanksgiving, and have a lightbulb moment: Can I turn this into something my dog will love? The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, how to make dog treats with pumpkin is one of the most searched pet-care topics for a good reason—pumpkin is a superfood for dogs, packed with fiber and vitamins that help with digestion.

Quick Answer: Yes, you can make delicious, healthy dog treats with pumpkin using just a few ingredients. The easiest method is to mix 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling) with 2 ½ cups of whole wheat flour and 2 eggs. Roll it out, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. That’s it—a healthy, affordable alternative to store-bought treats.

Why Pumpkin Is a Powerhouse Ingredient for Homemade Dog Treats

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why how to make dog treats with pumpkin is a skill every pet parent should master. Pumpkin is low in calories but high in soluble fiber, which helps regulate your dog’s digestive system. Whether your pup has the runs or is a bit backed up, pumpkin works as a gentle regulator.

It’s also packed with Vitamin A (for eye health), Vitamin C (immune booster), and potassium. According to the American Kennel Club, plain canned pumpkin is a safe, effective remedy for both diarrhea and constipation in dogs. Just make sure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices like nutmeg that can be toxic to dogs.

Making your own treats also gives you control over ingredients. No preservatives, no artificial flavors, and no mysterious “meat by-products.” Plus, one 15-ounce can of pumpkin costs about $1.50 and can make three batches of treats—a huge saving compared to $8 bags of premium dog cookies.

Recipe #1: The 3-Ingredient Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Cookies

This is the go-to recipe for beginners learning how to make dog treats with pumpkin. It’s almost impossible to mess up.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol—check the label!)
• 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive tummies)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a stiff dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time. Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use cookie cutters (bone shapes are fun, but any shape works) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip them and bake another 10 minutes for extra crunch. Let them cool completely before serving.

Storage tip: These keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for 3 months.

Recipe #2: No-Bake Pumpkin & Oat Bites (Perfect for Travel)

Not everyone wants to turn on the oven. If you’re looking for a quick, no-bake option when learning how to make dog treats with pumpkin, this recipe is your best friend.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, adds fiber)
• 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to roll into small balls. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon more oats. Roll into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. That’s it—no baking required!

These soft, chewy bites are great for stashing in your treat pouch during walks or using as training rewards. They also hold up well in a cooler for road trips.

Recipe #3: Pumpkin & Apple Crunchy Biscuits

Want to add a little fruity sweetness? Apples and pumpkin are a flavor match made in heaven. This recipe adds a gentle crunch that dogs love.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or 1 small apple, finely grated)
• 2 eggs
• 3 cups whole wheat flour

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk the pumpkin, applesauce, and eggs together. Gradually mix in the flour until a stiff dough forms. Roll out to ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. These come out harder and crunchier, which is great for dental health—the crunch helps scrape off plaque.

Pro tip: If your dog is a heavy chewer, bake these a few minutes longer to make them extra crunchy. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.

Recipe #4: Frozen Pumpkin & Yogurt Pupsicles (Summer Special)

When the temperature rises, learning how to make dog treats with pumpkin includes a frozen option that’s both cooling and soothing for upset stomachs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (no artificial sweeteners)
• ½ cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Pour into silicone ice cube trays or a Kong Genius Leo Toy ($12.99 on Chewy) for a fun, interactive treat. Freeze for 3-4 hours until solid. Pop them out and serve—your dog will thank you on a hot day.

These pupsicles are fantastic for teething puppies or senior dogs who need a little cooling relief.

Storage, Safety, and Serving Tips

Knowing how to make dog treats with pumpkin is only half the battle—you need to store them properly to keep them safe.

Refrigeration: Most baked pumpkin treats last 2-3 weeks in an airtight container in the fridge. No-bake treats are more perishable—eat within 1 week.

Freezing: Almost all pumpkin treats freeze well. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Serving size: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For a 50-pound dog, that’s about 2-3 medium cookies per day. Always introduce new treats slowly to avoid stomach upset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I give my dog raw pumpkin?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Raw pumpkin is very tough and hard for dogs to digest. Canned pure pumpkin or cooked, mashed pumpkin is much safer and easier on their stomach. Always avoid the rind and stem.

How much pumpkin can I give my dog per day?

As a general rule, give 1 teaspoon of pumpkin per 10 pounds of body weight per day. For a 50-pound dog, that’s 5 teaspoons (about 1.5 tablespoons). Too much can cause loose stools.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling for dog treats?

No, never. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar, spices (like nutmeg and cinnamon), and often preservatives. Nutmeg can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. Always use 100% pure pumpkin puree with no added ingredients.

How long do homemade pumpkin dog treats last?

Baked treats last 2-3 weeks in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. No-bake treats last about 1 week in the fridge. Always check for mold before serving.

Are pumpkin dog treats good for dogs with diarrhea?

Yes, pumpkin is excellent for both diarrhea and constipation due to its high soluble fiber content. The fiber absorbs excess water in the digestive tract while also adding bulk to firm up loose stools. Many vets recommend it as a first-line home remedy.

Best Products for Making Pumpkin Dog Treats

Here are my top picks to make the process easier and more fun.

Kong Genius Leo Toy

★★★★★ (4,850 reviews)

$12.99

Amazon →

Farmer's Market Foods Organic Pumpkin Puree

★★★★☆ (1,230 reviews)

$1.99

Chewy →

Bone-Shaped Cookie Cutter Set (6-Pack)

★★★★☆ (2,100 reviews)

$7.99

Petco →

If you found this guide on how to make dog treats with pumpkin helpful, you’ll love our post on how often to bathe a shedding dog to keep your home fur-free. Also, check out our 5 tricks for removing pet hair from furniture—because homemade treats and a clean couch go hand in hand.

Now go forth, grab that can of pumpkin, and make your pup the happiest dog on the block. Your wallet—and your dog’s tail—will thank you.