!Call To Action

!Header Logo

Valley Animal Hospital

!Call Today!

Hospital (909) 877-2384 Cathy’s Grooming (951) 284-9744 Valley Pet Hotel (909) 301-8299

Fall Dog Treats

October 15 2023

There’s something magical about autumn’s crisp breezes and vibrant foliage that makes it the perfect time to spoil your four-legged companion. When it comes to creating fall homemade dog treats, using seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, and apple not only offers your pup a delicious taste of autumn but can also deliver beneficial nutrients. Pumpkin, for instance, is high in fiber and can promote healthy digestion, while apples supply vitamins and a delightful crunch. Avoid ingredients such as chocolate, raisins, or artificial sweeteners to keep your pooch safe. Incorporating protein sources like lean meats or peanut butter can further enrich these tasty treats. Studies have shown that incorporating wholesome elements in your dog’s diet can bolster immune function and support overall well-being. By harnessing the flavors of the season, fall homemade dog treats provide a unique, nutritious way to celebrate autumn while keeping your canine companion happy and healthy.

Autumn is in the air! The leaves are changing, and the temperatures are cooling off. Many of you are likely enjoying some of your favorite seasonal foods, whether that means a pumpkin spice latte, fresh apple cider, or candy corn. Our canine pals can also enjoy a few autumn classics. A local vet offers some tips on giving Fido some fall treats in this article.

Pumpkin Yums

For fall homemade dog treats, start by blending pureed plain pumpkin with ground turkey, eggs, rolled oats, and your choice of oat or whole-wheat flour. Combine the wet ingredients first, then gradually incorporate the oats and flour. For a festive touch, use a silicone mold in bone shapes. Divide the mixture into these molds, and bake at 325°F for about 20 minutes. Allow the treats to cool completely before treating your dog. Encourage a playful trick from your pooch as a fun exchange for these seasonal snacks!

Apple Chicken Treat

You’ll need 1 ¼ cups grated carrots, a cup of grated apple, ½ cup of natural peanut butter, two eggs, and instant oats for this one. Mix the apples, oats, and carrots in one bowl, and the peanut butter and eggs in another. Then, combine into a batter and, as with the Pumpkin Yums, divide into small portions. Cook for about 15 minutes at 350. Voila!

Sweet Potato Jerky

Jerky is one of Fido’s favorite snacks: it not only tastes great, but has that hard texture that he can really sink his teeth into. To make jerky for your canine companion, you’ll want to slice some freshly-scrubbed sweet potatoes into thin strips. They should be about ¼ inch thick. Next, put them on a cookie sheet. You can use parchment paper for lining if you like. Cook at 225F for about 3 to 4 hours. You can add more time if you want them crunchier. Just make sure that the strips aren’t a choking hazard.

Tips

These homemade treats, perfect for the fall season, offer a variety of safe and healthy options for your canine companion. Exploring fall homemade dog treat recipes allows for creativity in using seasonal, dog-friendly ingredients like pumpkin and sweet potato. When making these treats, ensure all ingredients are safe for dogs. Avoid harmful foods such as garlic, onions, scallions, chives, grapes, currants, raisins, avocado, and any fruits with seeds or pips. Also, steer clear of coffee, chocolate, xylitol, and foods high in salt, sugar, or fat. Meat on the bone and raw dough should also be avoided. For specific dietary guidance tailored to your dog’s needs, consult your veterinarian.

How to Store Fall Homemade Dog Treats Safely in 2025

How long can these treats be stored?

Homemade treats like pumpkin-based biscuits, apple-chicken bites, or sweet potato jerky generally keep in an airtight container for around one week when refrigerated. Freezing them can extend their freshness to approximately three months, though quality may decline over time. Jerky-style snacks often last a bit longer due to reduced moisture, but checking regularly for any mold or unpleasant odors is recommended. Natural ingredients can spoil quickly, so discard anything that appears off. Proper temperature control helps maintain both flavor and safety. For best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients and handle them properly.

What are the nutritional benefits of fall ingredients?

Fall ingredients such as pumpkin, apples, and sweet potatoes offer substantial nutritional benefits for dogs. Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which aids in digestive health, and also provides vitamin A and antioxidants. Apples supply vitamins A and C, which support immunity and skin health, while being low in protein and fat, making them a healthy snack. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin B6, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, boosting overall health and providing essential dietary fiber. Incorporating these ingredients into dog treats can enhance your pet’s diet with beneficial nutrients while aligning with the festive spirit of the season.

How can treats be made more appealing?

To make treats more appealing for dogs, incorporating their favorite flavors with a focus on texture and shape enhances the experience. For instance, using silicone molds to create fun shapes like bones can make snacks visually interesting. Adding a variety of textures, such as the crunchiness of homemade sweet potato jerky or the softness of pumpkin and turkey treats, caters to different canine preferences. Always ensure treats are made with dog-safe ingredients, avoiding harmful items like chocolate, xylitol, and grapes, and consult a veterinarian for personalized advice tailored to your dog’s dietary needs.

What size should treats be?

When preparing treats for dogs, size is crucial to ensure they are safe and enjoyable for your pet. Treats should be proportionate to your dog’s size to prevent choking hazards. For small dogs, treats should be bite-sized, about the size of a pea. For larger breeds, treats can be slightly larger, roughly the size of a standard dice. Always monitor your dog when introducing new treats and adjust sizes based on their ability to chew and swallow without difficulty.

What are the signs of proper preparation?

Properly prepared dog treats display an even texture, color, and firmness without soggy or raw spots. Mixtures should blend thoroughly, ensuring no pockets of wet batter or lumps of flour remain. Baked treats appear lightly browned, releasing a pleasant, mild aroma instead of a heavy doughy smell. Jerky slices should be fully dehydrated yet slightly flexible, avoiding brittle edges that can splinter. Once cooled, the final product can be tested for uniform consistency: it shouldn’t crumble too easily or feel gummy. Relying on safe, dog-friendly ingredients reduces health risks and ensures each treat is ready to be enjoyed.

Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Bloomington, CA animal clinic, anytime!

January 2025 Newsletter

Read our January 2025 Newsletter!

Fido’s Year In Review

Happy New Year! That’s officially a wrap on 2024. While we can’t make many predictions

Choosing Holiday Gifts For Fido

Happy Holidays! Have you finished your shopping yet? Or are you one of those last-minute
1 2 3 29