Fall is the perfect time to enjoy cozy days, colorful leaves, and delicious seasonal foods. And while you’re baking pumpkin bread or roasting sweet potatoes, you might wonder if your four-legged family member can enjoy a little taste of fall, too!
The good news is that several seasonal ingredients can make wonderful occasional treats for dogs when prepared properly. Pumpkin, apples, sweet potatoes, and oats are popular choices that can be used to make simple homemade snacks. Here are four easy recipes your pup can enjoy this fall!
1. Homemade Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
Pumpkin is a fall favorite, and plain pumpkin puree can be a tasty addition to your dog’s treat rotation. It also contains fiber, which supports normal digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- 2 cups whole-wheat flour
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix the pumpkin, egg, and flour until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut it into small biscuits. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until firm. Let the biscuits cool completely before serving.
Always use 100% pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which may contain added sugar and spices.
2. Apple and Oat Dog Treats
Apples offer a naturally sweet crunch that many dogs enjoy. They also contain fiber and vitamins. Just remember to remove the core, seeds, and stem before preparing them.
Ingredients:
- 1 small apple, cored and finely grated
- 1 cup plain rolled oats
- 1 egg
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Combine all three ingredients in a bowl. Form the mixture into small bite-sized treats and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, until set. Allow them to cool before giving one to your dog.
Skip added sugar, cinnamon-sugar blends, and sweeteners.
3. Sweet Potato Bites
Sweet potatoes are another seasonal favorite. When cooked and served plain, they provide fiber and beneficial nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium sweet potato
Directions:
Wash and peel the sweet potato, then cut it into small cubes. Steam or boil until completely soft. Let the pieces cool before serving.
That’s it! No butter, salt, oil, or seasoning is needed. You can also mash the cooked sweet potato and offer a small spoonful as an occasional topper for your dog’s regular food.
4. Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Bites
For dogs who love peanut butter, these simple treats combine two popular flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 1 cup oat flour
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix the pumpkin and peanut butter together, then gradually stir in the oat flour until a soft dough forms. Roll into small balls and flatten slightly on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, then cool completely before serving.
Important: Check the peanut butter label carefully. Never use a product containing xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs.
Keep Your Dog Safe This Fall
Before sharing homemade treats, remember that even dog-safe foods should be offered in moderation. Treats should generally account for no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, with the rest coming from a complete and balanced diet. Introduce new ingredients gradually, and check with your veterinarian if your dog has food allergies, a sensitive stomach, diabetes, or another health condition.
Keep chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and foods containing xylitol away from curious noses. During fall celebrations, store Halloween candy and baked goods securely, too.
At The Ranch Pet Resort & Spa, we know that pets are family. Whether your dog is enjoying a cozy afternoon at home or spending a fun-filled day with us, a little seasonal fun can make autumn extra special.
Try one of these simple recipes, snap a picture of your happy pup, and enjoy the season together. After all, fall is even better when you can share a little of the fun with your best furry friend!
Reservations for the Holidays
If you are considering traveling for the holidays or want somewhere safe for your dog or cat to go while family or friends are visiting, please reserve your spot as soon as you can. We are booking up very quickly!
