Dog-Friendly Fall Treats
Friday, September 16, 2022 11:00:00 AM America/Los_Angeles
With pumpkin spice lattes, apple pies, and baked yams gracing our homes in the autumn, it’s no wonder that fall is a favorite time of year for many. But these scrumptious foods aren’t just for humans, many of these seasonal ingredients are tasty and safe for our canine companions, too! Below are a couple of simple yet fall-inspired, dog-friendly treats that your fur baby can enjoy as well. If you’re looking to go the extra mile and include your pooch in fall festivities, check out our post on hosting a dog-friendly Thanksgiving here!
Photo by Ben Hanson
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Bites
With just three ingredients, these bites are a great way to use up those plentiful fall time foods that are already in your kitchen. Whether you decide to add roasted pumpkin bits or mix pumpkin puree into the peanut butter, this is a potassium-filled treat to keep your dog feeling energetic and perky during those cold, dreary days. If you prefer a grain-free binder, oats can be substituted for flour to provide some shape and texture.
Pumpkin Puree
While you may prefer your pumpkin puree in a pie, dogs can enjoy this autumnal snack in plain form. Just be sure that the puree doesn’t contain spices, as many store bought varieties do. Pumpkin puree is incredibly safe for dogs to eat but those spices may not be. Luckily, it’s easy enough to set some aside for your doggo if you make the puree at home. Simply scoop some into a jar for safekeeping before any spices are added. The best part? Pumpkin puree is a versatile treat that can be served all by itself or as a tasty topper for your dog’s usual meal.
Sweet Potato “Scones” with Cranberries
Ah, cranberries–that sweet fruit that no one likes to eat during Thanksgiving dinner. Get crafty with leftover (but unsweetened) cranberries by turning them into chewy treats! Mash baked sweet potatoes and mix in a handful of cranberries before shaping into bite sized clumps. Because sweet potatoes are starchy, you won’t have to add any ingredients like flour that may be less appropriate in a dog treat. The “scones” will stick together naturally and can be baked into a simple and quick dog-safe snack!
Apple and Oatmeal Clusters
Oatmeal is chock full of fiber, which can be helpful after those filling holiday meals. Apples will need to be crushed before they can be combined with the oats–just be sure to use plain (not sweetened) oats, as sugar will give your pup an upset tummy. Mix in a dog-safe raw honey to glue ingredients together before baking. Now that’s what you call a sweet treat!
Keep in mind that any shift in a dog’s diet can result in potty changes. While these ingredients are dog-friendly, changes in diet can lead to increased urination or bowel movements. Luckily, an indoor pet potty is all you need to help your fur baby out with those extra potty trips. As schedules get a bit more hectic around the holidays, a real bark pee pad like Bark Potty is the perfect dog bathroom for your holiday needs!