Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that don’t need an oven, take minimal time, and still come out looking like something out of a doggie bakery. These no-bake pumpkin dog treats check every one of those boxes.
They’re perfect for busy days, and even better for furry friends who deserve something special. Whether the goal is to keep things wholesome, sneak in a little nutrition, or just create a cute project with the kids, these treats are definitely worth trying.
No fancy ingredients. No complicated steps. Just a handful of pantry staples, a bit of mixing, and a refrigerator. These little bites are soft, chewy, and full of flavors dogs tend to love (and beg for).
And the best part? They’re made with simple, dog-safe ingredients that are easy on sensitive tummies and surprisingly nutritious.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything needed to whip up a batch of these no-bake pumpkin dog treats. Each ingredient serves a helpful purpose and was chosen with both flavor and safety in mind.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (must be xylitol-free – this is important!)
- 2½ cups old-fashioned oats (plus extra for rolling if preferred)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, but adds extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional for flavor, but skip if unsure about allergies)
Everything on this list is easy to find and affordable. If peanut butter or yogurt is already a staple in the fridge, then most of this list is already covered.
Pro Tips
These helpful little tips can make this recipe even better — especially for those making it the first time or involving the family.
- Use a silicone mat or parchment paper when rolling out the treats. It keeps things from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Make smaller treats for smaller dogs. Large breeds can handle bigger bites, but smaller pups appreciate a size they can nibble on easily.
- Let kids help with mixing and shaping. This recipe is dog-safe and people-safe, making it a great bonding activity.
- Chill the mixture for 15 minutes before rolling if it feels too soft or sticky. It firms up nicely in the fridge.
- Store in the fridge or freezer for longer freshness, especially if making a larger batch.
These pro tips not only help the recipe go smoothly, but they also turn a simple treat-making session into a fun little event for everyone involved.
Tools You’ll Need
No baking means no oven. But a few basic kitchen tools still help bring everything together quickly and easily.
- Medium to large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheet or flat tray
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Airtight storage container
No special equipment required — just the basics.
Substitutions & Variations
These treats are pretty flexible, which is great for adjusting based on what’s already available in the pantry or what works best for each dog.
- Pumpkin puree can be swapped with cooked, mashed sweet potato or plain butternut squash.
- Peanut butter can be replaced with almond butter or sunflower seed butter (as long as it’s xylitol-free).
- Oats can be pulsed in a food processor for a finer texture, especially for smaller dogs or those with chewing sensitivities.
- Plain Greek yogurt is optional but adds creaminess. It can be skipped or swapped with mashed banana or applesauce.
- Cinnamon adds a little extra flavor, but some dogs may be sensitive, so it’s perfectly fine to leave it out.
And if there’s time to experiment, a few finely shredded carrots or a sprinkle of flaxseed can offer extra nutrition and texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
For those planning to make a large batch, these treats store beautifully.
- Roll the mixture into balls and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill in the refrigerator until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Pull out a few at a time and let them thaw in the fridge before giving them to the pup.
Great for busy days or keeping a supply on hand for training treats and rewards.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s the full breakdown on how to make these easy no-bake pumpkin dog treats from start to finish.
- Mix the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, add the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt (if using). Stir together until everything is smooth and fully combined.
- Add the dry ingredients. Gradually stir in the oats and cinnamon (if using). Mix until a thick dough forms. If it feels too soft, let it rest in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.
- Shape the treats. Scoop out small amounts of the dough and roll into balls using clean hands. For a textured finish, roll each ball in extra oats. Aim for treat sizes that fit the size and breed of each dog.
- Chill until firm. Place the rolled treats onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray and chill in the fridge for about 1 hour. This helps them set and keeps them from crumbling.
- Store for future treats. Once firm, store the treats in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
The entire process takes less than 30 minutes, with most of the time spent waiting for them to chill.
Nutrition Breakdown (per treat, approx.)
- Calories: 45–55
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
These are just estimates and will vary based on the size of each treat and exact ingredients used. A great low-calorie, high-fiber option for daily rewards or training reinforcements.
Leftovers & Storage
For treats that last longer and stay fresh:
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer first, then store in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Let frozen treats thaw in the fridge before giving them to dogs. They’ll soften back up without losing texture.
Perfect for making ahead and offering one or two at a time.
FAQs
Can canned pumpkin pie filling be used? No. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugars and spices that are not safe for dogs. Always choose plain pumpkin puree with no added ingredients.
How many can be given per day? It depends on the dog’s size, activity level, and daily calorie allowance. Treats should only make up 10% or less of daily intake. Always check with a vet for personalized recommendations.
Are these safe for puppies? Yes — but make the treats smaller, and introduce them one at a time to make sure there are no sensitivities.
Can supplements be added to the mix? Definitely. Dog-safe supplements like fish oil or joint support powders can be mixed into the dough, but dosage should be based on vet guidance.
What if the dough is too sticky to roll? Chilling the mixture for 15 minutes before rolling can help. Adding a little more oats can also thicken it up without changing the flavor.
Final Thoughts
These no-bake pumpkin dog treats are such a fun way to create something meaningful (and delicious) for the family pet. The ingredients are wholesome, the steps are easy, and the result is a treat that’s loved by both pups and pet parents.
They make a sweet little reward, a thoughtful gift for another dog owner, or just a fun project with kids on a cozy afternoon.
So go ahead and give them a try. And if there’s a favorite twist or a creative variation that worked well, feel free to share in the comments! Questions are always welcome too — the goal is to make this a treat both pets and people can feel good about.
