3 Ingredient Pumpkin Oat Dog Treats: A Healthy & Easy Homemade Recipe
If you’re a dog parent, you already know how much your furry friend loves treats. But store-bought dog snacks often come with long ingredient lists, artificial flavors, and unnecessary preservatives. That’s where homemade dog treats come in handy. Today, we’re sharing a simple, wholesome recipe for 3 ingredient pumpkin oat dog treats—a healthy snack you can whip up in minutes.
Not only are these treats easy to make, but they’re also packed with nutrients that support your pup’s digestion, coat health, and overall well-being. Best of all? You don’t need fancy ingredients or baking skills—just oats, pumpkin, and eggs.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- Why pumpkin is good for dogs
- The benefits of oats for dogs
- Step-by-step instructions for making pumpkin oat dog treats with 3 ingredients
- Storage tips to keep them fresh
- Fun variations to customize the recipe
- Frequently asked questions about pumpkin dog treats
Let’s dive in!
Why Pumpkin Is Good for Dogs
Pumpkin isn’t just a fall favorite for humans—it’s also a superfood for dogs. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, pumpkin can support your pup’s health in several ways:
- Digestive health: Pumpkin is high in soluble fiber, which helps regulate your dog’s digestion. It can ease both constipation and diarrhea.
- Rich in nutrients: Pumpkin contains vitamins A, C, and E, plus potassium and iron—all important for immune health and energy.
- Low in calories: If your dog is watching their weight, pumpkin is a guilt-free snack.
When making dog treats, always use plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices that are unsafe for dogs).
The Benefits of Oats for Dogs
Oats are another star ingredient in these treats. They’re gentle on sensitive stomachs and provide lasting energy. Here’s why they’re good for dogs:
- High in fiber: Supports digestion and helps your pup feel full.
- Gluten-free option: For dogs with wheat sensitivities, oats are a safe alternative.
- Nutrient-dense: Oats provide B vitamins, iron, and zinc, all important for skin and coat health.
You can use whole rolled oats or quick oats in this recipe. If you prefer a smoother texture, grind the oats into oat flour using a blender or food processor.
The Role of Eggs in Dog Treats
Eggs act as the binding ingredient in these 3 ingredient pumpkin oat dog treats. They also add an extra boost of protein and essential amino acids that support muscle development. If your dog is allergic to eggs, you can use a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce as an alternative.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these healthy pumpkin oat dog treats, you’ll need just three simple ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (or oat flour)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened, plain)
- 1 egg
That’s it—just three nutritious ingredients that are safe and healthy for dogs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to bake a batch of homemade dog treats:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the oats: If you’re using rolled oats, pulse them in a blender or food processor until they resemble flour. If you want chunkier treats, leave them whole.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin, egg, and oats (or oat flour). Stir until a dough forms. The dough should be thick but slightly sticky.
- Shape the treats: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface (using oat flour). Use a cookie cutter (bone-shaped or round) to cut out treats. If you’re in a hurry, simply roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly.
- Bake: Place the treats on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until firm and golden brown.
- Cool completely: Allow the treats to cool before serving to your dog.
Storage Tips
To keep your pumpkin oat dog treats fresh:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw a few treats at a time before giving them to your pup.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? You can easily customize this recipe with other dog-safe ingredients. Just remember to keep it healthy and avoid harmful foods (like chocolate, grapes, onions, or xylitol).
Here are some fun variations:
- Peanut Butter Pumpkin Oat Treats: Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter.
- Apple Pumpkin Oat Treats: Mix in ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce.
- Cinnamon Pumpkin Oat Treats: Add ½ teaspoon of dog-safe cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Crunchy version: Bake the treats for an additional 5–10 minutes for a crunchier texture.
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
Making your own 3 ingredient pumpkin oat dog treats has several benefits over buying store-bought snacks:
- Healthier: You control the ingredients—no artificial colors, fillers, or preservatives.
- Budget-friendly: Homemade treats cost a fraction of premium dog treats at the pet store.
- Bonding: Baking treats for your dog is a fun way to show love and care.
- Customizable: You can adjust the recipe for your dog’s size, taste, or dietary needs.
FAQs About Pumpkin Oat Dog Treats
1. Can dogs eat pumpkin every day?
Yes, in moderation. A few spoonfuls of pumpkin daily can aid digestion, but too much may cause loose stools.
2. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cook and mash the pumpkin until smooth. Make sure it’s plain, without added spices or sugar.
3. My dog is allergic to oats—what can I use instead?
Try rice flour, chickpea flour, or coconut flour as a substitute.
4. Are these treats safe for puppies?
Yes, these treats are safe for puppies over 8 weeks old. Always introduce new foods gradually.
5. How many treats can I give my dog per day?
These treats should be given in moderation, depending on your dog’s size. For small dogs, 1–2 per day is fine, while larger dogs can enjoy 3–4.
Conclusion
Homemade 3 ingredient pumpkin oat dog treats are a simple, healthy, and cost-effective way to spoil your furry friend. With just pumpkin, oats, and an egg, you can create tasty snacks that support digestion, provide essential nutrients, and avoid harmful additives found in many commercial dog treats.
Whether you’re baking for your own pup or making a gift for a fellow dog parent, these pumpkin oat treats are sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to see some very happy tail wags!
