Finally, sweater weather for you and your pup! Fall brings seasonal flavors and ingredients. As we enjoy indulging in cozy treats, our dogs can also enjoy seasonal treats with healthy, organic snacks made at home. My dog doesn’t eat treats from the pet store like this, so I decided to try making them fresh. To my surprise, she ate them immediately! If your dog is like mine, I bet your dog will love this treat, too. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a pumpkin, blueberry, and carrot cookie-type treat that your dog will love.
Why Choose Organic Ingredients?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s discuss why organic ingredients are essential. Organic produce is free from pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This means fewer harmful chemicals and additives. By choosing organic, you ensure your dog enjoys wholesome, natural goodness.
Pumpkin, Blueberry & Carrot Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup fresh organic blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 organic carrot, grated
- 2 1/2 cups organic whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1/4 cup organic unsweetened applesauce
- 1 organic pasture-raised egg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper; you can also use foil.
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, grated carrot, applesauce, and egg. Mix until well blended.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.
- Fold in the Blueberries: Gently fold in them, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use cookie cutters in fun fall shapes (like leaves or pumpkins) to cut out the treats. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Store: Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving them to your dog. Store the treats in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Benefits of the ingredients:
- Pumpkin: Rich in fiber and beta-carotene, pumpkin aids in digestion and can help regulate your dog’s digestive system.
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, blueberries help support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
- Carrots: Carrots are a great source of vitamins A and K and fiber, which is beneficial for your dog’s digestive health.
- Note: This recipe makes a little over two dozen cookies (this batch came out to 27 cookies). I keep some for the week and freeze the rest. Take them out as needed. You can date the freezer bag with a Sharpie.
Personal Touch:
You will feel pretty accomplished after making these treats. There’s something special about making treats for your dog; it’s a joyous experience! The reasons to bake for your pup are the anticipation of your dog’s reaction, the delightful aroma filling your kitchen, and the satisfaction of providing a healthy, homemade treat.
Don’t forget to share your baking experience and the joy it brings you and your dog with other pet parents. Fall is a beautiful time to bond with your dog. This Pumpkin, Blueberry, and Carrot Delight recipe is easy to make, nutritious, and sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a baking session celebrating the best of the season. Your dog will thank you with happy wagging tails and a possible smooch!