Healthy homemade dog treats (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
1 cup pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened, no spices)
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2 cups oat flour (or finely blended oats)
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1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
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1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
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In a medium bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, applesauce, and peanut butter until well combined and smooth. These ingredients give the treats their flavor and help bind everything together.
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Gradually add the oat flour and cinnamon (if using) to the wet mixture, stirring as you go. Keep mixing until you have a thick, slightly sticky dough. If it seems too wet, just add a bit more oat flour until it's workable.
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Take small portions of the dough and roll them between your hands to create sticks about 4-5 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Think of them as dog-sized breadsticks!
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Place all your formed sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one so they can bake evenly.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You're looking for the edges to turn golden brown and the sticks to feel firm when gently pressed. For crunchier treats, you can bake them about 5 minutes longer.
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Take the treats out of the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before giving them to your furry friend. They'll harden a bit more as they cool.
# Notes:
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These homemade dog treats contain healthy ingredients like pumpkin and oats that are good for your dog's digestion.
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Always ensure your peanut butter is xylitol-free, as this sweetener is toxic to dogs.
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Store treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.