Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Treat your furry best friend to these delicious and healthy homemade dog cookies! Made with wholesome butternut squash, oat flour, and dog-safe peanut butter, these crunchy bites are flavored with a hint of cinnamon. They're easy to bake and a great way to show your pup some extra love.

Making the Dough Instructions

  1. First, prepare the butternut squash. You can steam it, boil it, or roast it until very tender. Let it cool down completely.
  2. Once cooled, measure out 200g of the cooked squash flesh.
  3. In a food processor, combine the cooled butternut squash, oat flour, flaxseed meal, peanut butter (make sure it's xylitol-free!), and ground cinnamon.
  4. Blend the mixture until it comes together into a smooth, cohesive dough. It should form a ball easily.
  5. If the dough seems too sticky, add a tiny bit more oat flour. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a little more squash.

Rolling & Baking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Turn the dough ball out onto a surface lightly dusted with oat flour. Sprinkle a little more oat flour on top of the dough ball.
  3. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out evenly to a thickness of about 3-4mm (about 1/8 inch).
  4. Occasionally lift and flip the dough while rolling, dusting lightly with oat flour underneath and on top as needed to prevent sticking.
  5. Using your favorite cookie cutters (bone shapes are always fun!), cut out the cookies.
  6. Carefully place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet(s), leaving a little space between them (they won't spread much).
  7. Gather the dough scraps, re-roll, and cut out more cookies until you've used all the dough.
  8. Bake one tray at a time in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them towards the end, as you want them slightly golden and firm, but not burnt.
  9. While the first batch is baking, you can prepare the next batch on another sheet of parchment paper.
  10. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will get crunchier as they cool.

Notes

  • CRITICAL SAFETY NOTE: Ensure your peanut butter does NOT contain Xylitol (also called Birch Sugar). Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.
  • Oat flour is naturally gluten-free, making these suitable for dogs with wheat sensitivities. You can make your own oat flour by blending rolled oats in a high-speed blender until fine.
  • Steam-cooking the squash is great as it doesn't add extra water. If you boil it, make sure to drain it very well.
  • Store the completely cooled cookies in an airtight container in a fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
  • These are treats and should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
  • Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about ingredients or your dog's specific dietary needs.