As the temperatures drop and the winter chill sets in, it’s the perfect time to pamper your furry friend with homemade treats that capture the cozy spirit of the season. At Dog City NYC, we believe that the love you share with your dog should be reflected in every snack they enjoy — and what better way to do that than by baking up a batch of healthy, seasonal dog treats made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and apple?
Not only are these ingredients packed with nutrients, but they’re also safe for your pup to enjoy. Pumpkin is great for digestion, while apples offer a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins. Together, they make for a delicious, tail-wagging treat that your dog will love, and it’s easy enough to whip up at home.
Why Choose Pumpkin and Apple for Your Dog’s Treats?
Pumpkin: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, pumpkin is great for digestion, making it an ideal ingredient for pups with sensitive tummies. It’s also low in calories and packed with vitamins A, C, and E — perfect for keeping your dog’s immune system in top shape.
Apple: Apples are a wonderful source of vitamin C and fiber, and they can help freshen your dog’s breath. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core before serving them to your furry friend, as these can be harmful in large quantities.
Pumpkin & Apple Dog Biscuits: A Simple DIY Recipe
Here’s a super simple, delicious recipe that will make your pup’s winter even more delightful. These homemade treats will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, and your dog will love the taste!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not the spiced pie filling!)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (or finely chopped, peeled apple)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, but adds great texture)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (a pinch is fine for dogs)
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional, for extra anti-inflammatory benefits)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, applesauce (or finely chopped apple), and egg. Stir until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the whole wheat flour, oats, cinnamon, and turmeric (if using). Stir until you form a dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it’s firm and manageable.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes — we love using bone-shaped cutters for that extra doggy charm, but any shape will do!
- Bake the treats: Place the cut-out shapes on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
- Cool and serve: Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This is important, as the treats will firm up more as they cool.
- Store properly: These treats will last for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Why Homemade Treats Are the Best
At Dog City NYC, we love sharing the joy of making treats that are not only tasty but healthy for your dog too. When you bake at home, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring there are no hidden preservatives or artificial additives. Plus, making your own treats is a fun way to bond with your dog — and your pup will absolutely appreciate the extra effort!
Click here for more dog treat recipes.
