Cool and Healthy: Easy Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats for Fall
According to Starbucks, pumpkin season is officially here! The moment those beloved pumpkin spice lattes hit the menu, we know it’s time to start embracing all things pumpkin — and that includes treats for our four-legged friends. Dogs love the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin just as much as we do, and luckily, it’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
From supporting digestion to promoting a shiny coat, pumpkin is one of the most versatile ingredients you can add to your dog’s diet. In honor of the season, we’re sharing a quick and easy recipe for frozen pumpkin dog treats — a cool, creamy snack your pup will love all year long.
Why Pumpkin Is Great for Dogs
Pumpkin isn’t just a fall favorite; it’s a canine superfood. It’s loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support your dog’s overall health. A few of its top benefits include:
- Healthy digestion: Pumpkin’s high fiber content helps regulate digestion, easing both constipation and diarrhea.
- Weight management: Low in calories but high in fiber, pumpkin helps dogs feel full without overeating.
- Eye and skin health: Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, pumpkin supports healthy vision, nourishes the skin, and promotes a glossy coat.
- Hydration: Pumpkin contains natural moisture, which can help keep your dog hydrated — especially when served frozen.
Combined with plain yogurt, this treat also provides probiotics to promote gut health and improve nutrient absorption. Together, pumpkin and yogurt make the perfect pair for a nutritious and refreshing dog snack.
Simple Two-Ingredient Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe
If you’ve been looking for a healthy, homemade way to spoil your pup, this recipe couldn’t be easier. It requires only two ingredients, no baking, and minimal cleanup. You can whip up a batch in minutes, then let the freezer do the rest of the work!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened, with no added flavors or artificial sweeteners)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
Directions:
- Mix the ingredients. Combine the pumpkin puree and plain yogurt in a medium-sized bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Prepare your molds. Divide the mixture evenly into an ice cube tray or silicone molds. Fun shapes like bones, paws, or pumpkins make for adorable seasonal treats.
- Freeze. Place the tray in the freezer for at least 24 hours, or until the treats are completely solid.
- Serve or store. Pop the frozen pumpkin dog treats out of the molds and transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for easy storage. You can also leave them in the tray if you have space in your freezer.
Tips and Variations
- Go dairy-free: If your pup is sensitive to dairy, substitute the yogurt with coconut milk or lactose-free yogurt.
- Add texture: Mix in a spoonful of natural peanut butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon (in small, safe amounts) for extra flavor.
- Perfect portioning: Small molds are great for little dogs, while larger ones make the ideal portion for bigger breeds.
- Use them for training: Because these treats are bite-sized and low in calories, they make a great high-value reward during training sessions.
A Year-Round Favorite
Even though frozen pumpkin dog treats are perfect for celebrating fall, dogs love them in any season. During the hot summer months, they’re a cooling snack that helps regulate temperature and hydration. In the winter, they’re a healthy alternative to heavy treats and a great way to get some pumpkin nutrition into your pup’s diet.
These treats are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the best. With just two wholesome ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can make a treat your dog will wag their tail for every time. So grab that can of pumpkin, fill up your molds, and let the freezing begin — your pup will thank you!