Apple Pumpkin Dog Treats
Apple pumpkin dog treats are a tasty homemade treat for your canine companion. They are typically made with simple, dog-friendly ingredients and can be a great way to reward your dog or even as a special homemade gift for dog-loving friends.
These treats are not only delicious but also packed with natural goodness to keep your dog healthy and happy. With the enticing aroma of apples and the earthy richness of pumpkin, your dog will be wagging their tail in anticipation every time you bake a batch of these wholesome goodies.
My dogs enjoyed these as they seem to have a crunch with a slight chewy texture which meant that they chewed the treat rather than bite in half and swallow.
Are apples good for dogs?
Apples are a good source of vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as dietary fiber. These nutrients can support your dog’s overall health and well-being.
The fiber in apples can aid in digestion and help regulate bowel movements. It can be particularly helpful if your dog is experiencing mild digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation.
Apples are relatively low in calories, making them a healthy option for dogs as an occasional treat.
Remember to go slowly when introducing new foods. And we recommend checking with your veterinarian first if your dog has any digestive issues or other health concerns.
Ingredients
Just 5 simple ingredients are used to make these easy apple cinnamon dog treats.
- Apple – Adding grated apple gives the baked dog treats extra flavor and texture.
- Pumpkin – Homemade pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin puree (make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices).
- Egg – Eggs provide protein and help bind the ingredients together, giving the treats a desirable texture.
- Cinnamon – Cinnamon contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may offer some health benefits for dogs, particularly for senior dogs or those with certain inflammatory conditions.
- Rice Flour – a gluten-free flour but other dog friendly flours such as wheat flour or coconut flour can be substituted. The volumes may need to be amended.
How to make apple pumpkin dog treats
This is an easy recipe to make with an easy dough to work with.
Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
Form into a dough.
Roll the dough and cut out shapes.
Place on a baking tray and bake.
Storage
Allow the treats to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the treats soggy or lead to mold growth.
Store the cooled treats in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you plan to use the treats within a week or two, keeping them at room temperature in a sealed container should be sufficient. Make sure the storage area is dry and not exposed to direct sunlight.
If you intend to keep the treats for a more extended period (up to a few months), consider refrigerating them. Refrigeration helps extend their shelf life. Ensure the container is still airtight.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, freezing is an excellent option. Place the treats in an airtight container or resealable freezer bags and store them in the freezer. Frozen treats can last for several months.
When you’re ready to use frozen treats, take out the desired amount and allow them to thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Thawed treats should be used within a reasonable time to maintain their quality.
Recipe Tips
The amount of flour may vary depending on factors like humidity and the moisture content of the pumpkin and grated apple. Be prepared to adjust the flour quantity slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed to create a uniform dough. This helps distribute flavors and ingredients evenly.
Roll the dough to a consistent thickness (about 1/4 inch) to ensure even baking. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut out your desired shapes.
How many treats should be given?
The number of dog treats that should be given to your dog depends on several factors, including your dog’s size, age, activity level, and the size and calorie content of the treats themselves.
Remember that treats are meant to be just that—treats. They should not replace a balanced and complete dog food diet. Providing a variety of treats in moderation can be a fun way to reward your dog, reinforce training, and strengthen your bond while maintaining their overall health and weight.
More Baked Dog Treats
Making your own dog treats ensures that you know exactly what is in them. Try these other homemade dog treat recipes:
Homemade treats should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Enjoy making these delicious and healthy apple pumpkin dog treats for your furry friend!
Apple Pumpkin Dog Treats
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Ingredients
- 1 medium apple
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups rice flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the apple core and seeds, and cut into slices. Grate the apples and set the skins aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg and grated apple.
- Add the cinnamon Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet mixture. Stir until a stiff dough forms. Adjust the flour amount as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- If the dough is too thick, add a couple of tablespoons of water and work the dough for a pliable dough.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for your dog's treats. Traditional bone shapes or playful paw prints are popular choices.
- Place the cut-out treats on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
- Bake the treats in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving them to your eager canine companion.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.