If you’re a gardener and a dog lover, there’s nothing more satisfying than using your homegrown pumpkins to create healthy, homemade treats for your furry friends. Pumpkin is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestive health and overall well-being for dogs. When combined with oatmeal, it creates a wholesome, easy-to-make snack your pup will love.

Why Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree?

I grew Rouge Vif de E’tamps in my garden last summer and they made a beautiful decoration for our front stoop. In the past when they started to break down, I would throw them into the garden, hoping that a seed or two would take and provide more pumpkins the following year. What a waste! I had heard about making pumpkin treats for dogs and I decided this would be a much better option. Plus, I saved some of the seeds to roast and some to plant, so I am feeling good about using all I could from the harvest.

Store-bought pet treats can be unhealthy. Growing your own pumpkins ensures that your dog’s treats are free from additives and preservatives. Fresh pumpkin puree is not only more nutritious but also provides a richer flavor than canned versions. It’s easy to make—simply roast your pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it into a smooth puree. If you choose to grow Rouge Vif de E’tamps, you will discover that once roasted, the flesh is soft and easy to scoop out. It also presents a smooth, very mild pumpkin flavor that would make a great addition to soups and stews! Sorry Buddy!

Simple Pumpkin Oatmeal Dog Treat Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pumpkin puree
• 2 ½ cups rolled oats
• Additional oats for rolling
• ¼ cup peanut butter
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but beneficial for digestion)

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cut the pumpkin into sections and place on a baking sheet. (scoop out seeds and place aside to roast or air dry to plant)
• Bake pumpkin sections for approximately 45 minutes, depending on the size of your pumpkin. Flesh will be soft and watery. 
• Scoop out pumpkin pulp into a blender or food processor.
• Blend the pumpkin into a puree.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, oats, peanut butter, and cinnamon.
• Stir all ingredients together until well combined. 
• Form small balls and roll in leftover oats.

Storage Tips

Store the treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer shelf life.

Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

• Digestive Support – Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and can ease both constipation and diarrhea.
• Immune Boosting – Loaded with vitamins A and C, pumpkin helps support a strong immune system.
• Healthy Skin & Coat – Pumpkin’s natural oils promote a shiny, healthy coat.

When to Plant Pumpkin Seeds

We suggest you directly sow pumpkin seeds into your garden bed. Plant your pumpkin seeds outside after all chances of frost have passed and the soil temperature is 65°F. Check your zone’s last frost date here. Most pumpkin varieties take between 85 to 125 days to mature. Learn more about planting your own pumpkins in our planting guide.

That’s a Good Doggie

Making homemade dog treats from your garden-grown pumpkins is a rewarding way to share the harvest with your pet. Not only do these treats provide a nutritious boost, but they’re also a great way to bond with your dog while ensuring they enjoy wholesome, preservative-free snacks. Happy baking and tail wags all around!