10/11/2024
1 cup of pumpkin puree (unsweetened): Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that can be harmful to dogs.
1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes: You can bake, boil, or microwave the sweet potatoes until they are soft enough to mash smoothly.
2 cups of whole wheat flour: For dogs with gluten sensitivities, you can use oat, almond, or coconut flour.
1 egg: This will act as a binding agent to help hold the chews together.
1-2 tablespoons of water (if needed): Add water only if the dough feels too dry or crumbly.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
The first step is to prep the star ingredients—pumpkin and sweet potato. I like to bake my sweet potatoes, as it brings out their natural sweetness and makes them extra tender. Simply wash and poke a few holes in the potato with a fork, then bake at 400°F (204°C) for about 45-60 minutes until soft. Once cooled, peel off the skin and mash until smooth.
If you’re using canned pumpkin, double-check that it’s pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin and Sweet Potato
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato and pumpkin puree. Stir until well combined. At this stage, you’ll see the rich orange color of the mix—a sign of all the good nutrients packed inside.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack the egg into the pumpkin and sweet potato mixture and mix thoroughly. The egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring that the treats hold their shape during baking.
Step 4: Gradually Add the Flour
Slowly add the flour to the mixture, about half a cup at a time. You want to achieve a dough consistency that is firm but not crumbly. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it becomes pliable. On the other hand, if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Lightly flour a flat surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the treats. I love using bone-shaped cutters for an extra dash of whimsy. Charlie always seems to know he’s getting something special when his treats come in fun shapes!
Place the cutouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Step 6: Bake the Chews
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the chews for 25-30 minutes or until they are firm and lightly golden. If you want a chewier treat, you can reduce the baking time slightly. For a crunchier texture that can help clean teeth, bake a little longer and allow the chews to cool in the oven with the heat turned off.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Transfer the chews to a wire rack and let them cool completely before serving. Trust me, your pup will be drooling by this point!
Once cooled, store the chews in an airtight container. They will keep fresh at room temperature for about two weeks. For extended shelf life, consider refrigerating them or even freezing batches for future use.
Customizing the Recipe for Your Dog’s Preferences
1. Add a Nutritional Boost
If you want to up the nutritional value of these chews, try incorporating some of these add-ins:
Ground flaxseed: Adds omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat.
Chia seeds: Provides fiber and protein.
Peanut butter: Dogs love the taste, and it adds protein and healthy fats. Be sure to use Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs or choose a brand that is free of xylitol.
2. Experiment with Flours
Dogs with gluten sensitivities can benefit from using alternative flours like:
Oat flour: Adds a chewy texture.
Almond flour: A protein-rich option.
Coconut flour: Low in carbs and high in fiber.
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1 cup of pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
1 cup of cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
2 cups of whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
1 egg
1–2 tablespoons of water (if needed)
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare your sweet potato by baking or boiling until soft. Once cooled, peel and mash to create a smooth consistency.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato with the pumpkin puree. Stir until thoroughly blended.
Crack and add the egg into the mixture, stirring until it is fully incorporated.
Gradually add the flour, half a cup at a time, and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water as needed until the dough is pliable but not sticky.
Lightly flour a flat surface and roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to shape the treats and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the treats for 25-30 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden. For chewier treats, bake for a shorter time; for crunchier treats, bake longer.
Allow the chews to cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.
