If you’re looking for a fun, healthy and delicious fall treat, look no further.  These adorable dog cookies are perfect for fall or autumn, Thanksgiving, Halloween or really, any time of year.  While they don’t need to be made using pumpkin-shaped molds, it certainly is fun.  In fact, these treats can be made with or without a silicone mold. 

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When it comes to keeping our dogs happy and healthy, the right treats can make all the difference. One popular choice that’s gaining traction among dog owners is homemade dog treats, specifically those made with pumpkin and carrot. In this post, we’ll explore the nutritional benefits of these ingredients and provide you with easy-to-follow recipes to create homemade pumpkin and carrot dog treats that your canine companion will adore.

The Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin and Carrot for Dogs

Pumpkin and carrot are more than just colourful additions to your dog’s diet; they offer a range of health benefits:

1. Fibre-Rich Pumpkin: Pumpkin is an excellent source of dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. It’s especially useful for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
2. Vitamins and Antioxidants: Pumpkin is rich in essential vitamins like A, C, and E, along with antioxidants that support overall health and boost the immune system.
3. Low-Calorie Carrots: Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them an ideal choice for dogs on a diet or those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
4. Vitamin A and K: Carrots are packed with vitamin A for good vision and vitamin K for proper blood clotting.

By incorporating pumpkin and carrot into your dog’s treats, you’re providing them with a tasty way to enjoy these nutritional benefits.

Why Homemade Dog Treats Matter

Homemade dog treats offer several advantages over store-bought options:

1. Quality Control: When you make treats at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring your dog gets only the best.
2. Avoid Harmful Additives: Commercial treats often contain additives and preservatives that might not be ideal for your dog’s health.
3. Cost-Effective: Homemade treats can be budget-friendly, saving you money in the long run.
4. Customization: Tailor your treats to your dog’s taste preferences and dietary needs.

Tips for Making and Storing Pumpkin and Carrot Dog Treats

To ensure your treats remain fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

1. Store in an Airtight Container: Keep treats in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale or attracting moisture.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
3. Consider Portion Sizes: Be mindful of the size of treats you’re giving your dog, especially if you’re using them for training purposes. If your intention is to use them for training, you may prefer a small mold such as a pyramid pan or mini ice cube trays.

Homemade Pumpkin and Carrot Dog Treat Recipe

Now, let’s get to the fun part – making these delightful treats at home. Remember to involve your dog in the fun – they might enjoy helping you “taste-test” along the way!

This recipe can be made into a batter to pour into molds (like these fun pumpkin-shaped silicone molds) or into a rimmed baking tray (see recipe below), or it can be made into a dough to cut out with cookie cutters or a pizza wheel (or knife!).  For a dough, omit the water and you may need to use more flour.

In this recipe, I used 1 cup of oat flour and 1/2 cup of pumpkin flour I had made from dehydrated pumpkin.  Feel free to use any dog-safe flour you have on hand.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30-60 minutes depending on the size of molds

Yield: about 100 medium

Ingredients

• 1.5 cup (375 mL) dog-safe flour
• 1 cup (250 mL) pumpkin puree (if using store-bought, ensure it is not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3/4 cup (180 mL) shredded carrot (about 1 carrot)
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) honey
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) coconut oil, softened
• 2 1/2 cups (660mL) water

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 350°F / 177°C
2. Add all ingredients to the blender and puree until smooth.  If you don’t have a blender (or have a small one), you could use a stick blender and a bowl, or a food processor.
3. Check the consistency.  It should be between a pancake and a cake batter.  Add a bit more water or a bit more flour if needed. 
4. Place silicone molds on a baking tray to make transferring to and from the oven easier
5. Using a spatula, spread batter into molds.
6. Bake for 30-60 minutes, depending on the wetness of the batter and the size of the molds.  When filled, my pumpkin molds took about 50 minutes.  Smaller molds will take less time. 
7. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
8. Optional – if you prefer a drier treat, these can be baked a 2nd time at a lower temperature.  This will also help to make the treats last longer.  If fully dehydrated, the treats could be stored on the counter.

Storage

Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

If you have fully dehydrated your treats (at a low temperature in the oven or a dehydrator for many hours, until they snap then broken) these treats can be left in an air-tight container at room temperature. 

Conclusion

Homemade pumpkin and carrot dog treats offer a delightful way to bond with your furry friend while providing them with essential nutrients. By making your own treats, you can ensure your dog’s well-being and happiness while indulging their taste buds. So, why not get creative in the kitchen and whip up some tasty, nutritious treats that your canine companion will love? Your dog’s tail-wagging appreciation will be all the reward you need.

Remember, these treats are a complement to your dog’s regular diet, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you have any specific dietary concerns. Enjoy creating wholesome treats for your four-legged family member and cherish the joy they bring to your life.

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