If you’re looking for a healthy, homemade treat for your dog, this Banana-Carrot Peanut Butter Pumpkin recipe is 10/10! Made with all organic ingredients because you want your dog(s) to have the best. Suppose your dog doesn’t typically eat store-bought biscuit-type treats. I highly recommend you make them yourself. These are game changers in my home and help save money on treats. I only put out what she will eat for the week and freeze the rest. Then, repeat the following week. Plus, they are healthier. These treats are tasty and packed with nutrients that support your dog’s health, giving you peace of mind about their well-being. Try one yourself; yes, I said it! Go ahead. They are delicious for humans, too. When my dog sees me eat them, all bets are off; she’s gotta have it, too.
Ingredients:
Pumpkin Nana Bites
Ingredients
- 1 ripe organic banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup organic pumpkin puree (make sure it’s plain, not spiced)
- 1/2 cup organic carrot, finely grated
- 1/4 cup organic peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1 1/2 cups organic whole wheat flour or oat flour
- 1/2 tsp organic ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup water (only if needed for consistency)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by mashing the banana until smooth.
Add in the pumpkin puree, grated carrot, and peanut butter. Mix everything until well combined. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Gradually incorporate the whole wheat or oat flour and cinnamon (if using) into the wet mixture. Stir until you have a dough. If it’s too dry, add water, a tablespoon at a time until you achieve a firm but workable dough. - Roll and Cut:
Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. You can use cookie cutters to create fun shapes or cut the dough into squares. - Bake:
Place the treats on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. - Cool:
Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving them to your dog.
Storage:
Keep these treats in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For more extended storage, you can freeze and defrost them before giving them to your pup.
Why These Ingredients?
Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen with your dog’s health in mind:
- Bananas are rich in Vitamin B6, Vitamin C and potassium, supporting heart health and digestion.
- Pumpkin is a low-calorie ingredient high in fiber and Vitamin A, great for digestion and eye health.
- Carrot offers beta-carotene, Vitamin A, and antioxidants that promote a healthy coat, immune system, and vision.
- Peanut Butter provides healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, perfect for energy and a shiny coat—ensure it’s xylitol-free.
- Whole Wheat or Oat Flour adds complex carbohydrates for energy and fiber for digestive health. Oat flour is a gentle alternative for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
Portion Size and Frequency:
Moderation is vital when giving these treats to your dog. Here are some guidelines on how much to serve: Consult your vet if you are unsure about administering new treats to your dog’s diet.
- Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): 1 small treat daily.
- Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1-2 medium-sized daily treats.
- Large Dogs (50+ lbs): 2-3 larger treats daily.
These treats should be given occasionally—about 2-3 times a week—to complement a balanced diet. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to avoid weight gain or nutritional imbalances.
Homemade treats are a fantastic way to reward your dog with something special. Remember, while these treats are healthy, they’re still treats. Always watch portion sizes and how often you give them to your dog. Happy baking, and enjoy treating your pup to something delicious!