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DIY Thanksgiving Dog Treat Recipes

June 12, 2024
Person holding a tray of Thanksgiving-themed dog treats shaped like turkeys and pumpkins, with autumn leaves and decorations.

We’ve gathered some of our favorite Thanksgiving treats formulated especially for dogs. DIY dog treats are a safe, healthy, and loving way to let your dog share in the holiday. Plus, many of these recipes use up your leftovers—or ingredients you already have on hand. Homemade Thanksgiving dog treats for the win! Now, on to the recipes.

Key Takeaways

  • DIY dog treats are a safe and healthy way to include your pet in holiday festivities.
  • Many recipes utilize leftovers or common household ingredients, making them convenient and cost-effective.
  • Homemade treats allow for better control over the ingredients, ensuring they are safe and nutritious for your dog.
  • Storage tips for each recipe help maintain the treats' freshness and longevity.
  • Special serving suggestions ensure that your dog enjoys these treats in a safe and enjoyable manner.

Leftover Turkey Meatballs for Dogs

Use up that leftover turkey in a way your dog will love! Serve these hearty meatballs to your dog as a special treat. You can also add to a meal; just cut back on the kibble to adjust for added calories.

These meatballs last for about five days in the fridge or freeze beautifully.

Dehydrated Green Bean Thanksgiving Dog Treat

Why Green Beans?

Green beans are a fantastic, low-calorie treat for dogs. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option. Plus, they are a great alternative to the almost homemade green bean casserole that we humans enjoy during Thanksgiving. Dogs love them fresh or dried, and they are easy on their tummies.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Start with fresh green beans. Make sure they are washed and trimmed.
  2. Preheat your oven to 150°F (or use a dehydrator if you have one).
  3. Spread the green beans on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the green beans dehydrate for about 6-8 hours. Check occasionally to ensure they are drying evenly.
  5. Once they are fully dehydrated, let them cool before serving.
These dehydrated green beans are not only healthy but also super easy to make. Your dog will thank you!

Storage and Shelf Life

Store the dehydrated green beans in an airtight container. They can last for up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them, and they will stay good for about a month. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to thaw before serving.

These treats are perfect for sprinkling on top of your dog's meal or serving as a low-calorie snack. Enjoy making these nutritious and appealing treats for your furry friend!

Pumpkin Dog Biscuits

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's what you'll need to whip up these delicious pumpkin dog biscuits:

  • 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup canned pumpkin
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Pro tip: Make sure to use plain canned pumpkin, not the sweetened pie filling. Your dog won't care about the flavor profile, and the plain version is much easier on their tummy.

Ready to get baking? Follow these simple steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, eggs, pumpkin, peanut butter, and salt until well combined.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
  4. Use a cookie cutter (bonus points for a Thanksgiving-themed one) to cut out shapes.
  5. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.
"My dogs love this recipe. They smell them cooking and get excited. I usually double the recipe so I use a whole small can of pumpkin," says Michael Behrens.

Pumpkin isn't just tasty; it's also super healthy for your furry friend. Here are some benefits:

  • Digestive Health: Pumpkin helps with dog digestion and is a well-regarded cure for stomach upsets.
  • Low in Calories: Great for dogs on a diet.
  • Rich in Vitamins: Pumpkin is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for your dog's overall health.

So go ahead, treat your pup to these homemade pumpkin peanut butter dog biscuits. They'll love you even more for it!

Doggie Pumpkin Pie

A dog in a chef hat next to a pumpkin pie on a wooden table with autumn leaves.

Alright, let's talk about the crust first. You want to make sure it's dog-friendly, so skip the sugar and spices. A simple mix of whole wheat flour, oats, and a bit of water will do the trick. For the filling, use plain pumpkin rather than the sweetened pie filling. Your dog won’t care about the flavor profile, and the plain version is much easier on them. If your dog is dairy-free, you can use canned coconut milk to create a tasty whipped topping.

Baking these pies is a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your crust dough and press it into mini pie tins. Fill them up with the pumpkin mixture and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn. Once they're done, let them cool completely before serving.

When it comes to serving, moderation is key. These pies are a treat, not a meal replacement. Depending on the size of your dog, one mini pie should be more than enough. If you have a smaller dog, consider cutting the pie into smaller pieces to avoid overfeeding. Remember, homemade dog treat recipes emphasize safe ingredients, moderation, and balanced nutrition.

Mini Turkey Loaf Muffins

Mini turkey loaf muffins garnished with parsley and cranberries in a muffin tray on a rustic wooden table.

Gobble, gobble! Here’s another dog treat recipe where turkey is the star ingredient. These mini muffins also feature pumpkin puree and some veggies!

Pumpkin Cranberry Turkey Dog Treats

Why Cranberries?

Cranberries are not just for humans during Thanksgiving! These little berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can help boost your dog's immune system. Plus, they add a nice tart flavor that dogs seem to love. Even dogs without diabetes will enjoy these home-baked treats.

Mixing and Baking

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, and 1 cup of cooked, shredded turkey.
  3. Add 2 cups of whole wheat flour and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
  4. Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the treats are firm and golden brown.
These tempting, bite-size Thanksgiving dog treats are tasty enough you might just eat one yourself!

Storage Tips

Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them before serving to your pup. This way, you can always have a homemade dog treat ready for your furry friend!

No-Bake Coco Nutter Pumpkin Dog Treats

These tempting, bite-size Thanksgiving dog treats are tasty enough you might just eat one yourself! They’re also gluten-free, which is a plus for dogs with wheat sensitivities.

Turkey Bone Broth for Dogs

Nutritional Benefits

Jazz up your pet’s mealtime with a big splash of this hearty and healthy bone broth. You can make this recipe by adding your turkey carcass and veggie ends (no onions or garlic please!) for a free and seasonal flavor boost. Bone broth is rich in minerals that support the immune system and contain healing compounds like collagen, glutamine, glycine, and proline. We’re a little obsessed with bone broth—check out our blog on 5 Ways Bone Broth Improves Your Pet’s Health!

How to Make It

  1. Gather your ingredients: turkey carcass, veggie ends (like carrots and celery), and water.
  2. Place the turkey carcass and veggie ends in a large pot.
  3. Fill the pot with water until the ingredients are fully submerged.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 12-24 hours.
  5. Strain the broth to remove bones and veggie pieces.
  6. Let it cool before serving to your dog.
Pro tip: Freeze the broth in ice cube trays for easy serving later!

Serving Ideas

Bone broth can be one of the best dog food toppers out there! Pour it over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra nutritious boost. You can also use it to rehydrate freeze-dried dog food or simply serve it as a tasty treat on its own. Just remember to balance treats with regular diet for overall health. Your pup will love it, and you’ll feel great knowing you’re giving them something healthy and delicious!

Sweet Potato and Apple Dog Chews

Homemade dog treats shaped like bones and paws, made from sweet potatoes and apples, on a rustic table with autumn decor.

Ingredients and Tools

Alright, let's get started with the basics. For these delicious dog chews, you'll need:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 2 apples (any variety will do)
  • A sharp knife
  • A baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help dehydrate the sweet potatoes and apples without burning them.
  2. Wash the sweet potatoes and apples thoroughly. No one likes dirty chews!
  3. Slice the sweet potatoes and apples into thin, even slices. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out the slices in a single layer.
  5. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let it bake for about 2-3 hours. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure even dehydration.
  6. Once they are done, let them cool completely before serving them to your pup.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep these chews fresh, store them in an airtight container. They should last for about 2 weeks at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a month.

Pro Tip: You can also freeze these chews for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them before giving them to your dog.

And there you have it! A simple, healthy, and tasty treat for your furry friend. Enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Pupcakes

Freshly baked peanut butter and pumpkin pupcakes on a wooden table with autumn leaves, perfect for Thanksgiving dog treats.

Baking Instructions

Alright, let's get baking! These pupcakes are so good your dog will ask for them by name. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together 2 ½ cups of whole wheat flour, 2 large eggs, ½ cup of canned pumpkin, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Spoon the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before serving to your furry friend.

Ingredients List

Here's what you'll need to whip up these delicious pupcakes:

  • 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup canned pumpkin
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt

These simple ingredients come together to make a treat that's not only tasty but also healthy for your dog.

How to Decorate

Now, let's talk about making these pupcakes look as good as they taste. You can top them with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a smear of extra peanut butter. For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed dog treats on top. If you're feeling extra fancy, you can even pipe the yogurt or peanut butter using a piping bag. Trust me, your dog will be drooling over these decorated delights!

Pro tip: These pupcakes are quick and easy to put together, making them perfect for a last-minute treat.

So there you have it, a simple and fun recipe for Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Pupcakes that your dog will absolutely love!

Cranberry and Oatmeal Dog Cookies

Why Oatmeal?

Oatmeal is a fantastic ingredient for dog treats. It's not only nutritious but also easy on your dog's stomach. Oatmeal is packed with fiber, which helps with digestion, and it's a great source of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it's gluten-free, making it a safe option for dogs with sensitivities. Your furry friend will love the taste and the health benefits!

Mixing and Baking

In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, cranberries, baking powder, and cinnamon. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, molasses, and coconut oil. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes using cookie cutters. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

These Thanksgiving Dog Biscuits are healthy and have all the yummy Thanksgiving Day dinner ingredients: turkey, sweet potato, cranberry, carrots, oats, and rice flour. All healthy for your pooch ingredients…

Storage Tips

Once the cookies have cooled, store them in an airtight container. They can last up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them before serving to your pup. This way, you can always have a tasty treat ready for your dog, even if you're busy with holiday preparations!

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! We’ve gathered some of our favorite Thanksgiving treats formulated especially for dogs. DIY dog treats are a safe, healthy, and loving way to let your dog share in the holiday. Plus, many of these recipes use up your leftovers—or ingredients you already have on hand. From leftover turkey meatballs to dehydrated green beans, there's something for every pup to enjoy. Remember, homemade Thanksgiving dog treats for the win! Now, go ahead and spoil your furry friend with these tasty creations. Happy Thanksgiving, and may your dog's tail wag with joy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover turkey for dog treats?

Yes, leftover turkey can be used in many dog treat recipes, such as the Leftover Turkey Meatballs for Dogs. Just make sure to remove any bones and skin before using the meat.

Are green beans safe for dogs?

Yes, green beans are safe for dogs and make a healthy treat. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to your dog's diet.

How long can I store homemade dog treats?

Storage time varies by recipe. For example, Leftover Turkey Meatballs last about five days in the fridge or can be frozen for longer storage. Always check specific storage instructions for each recipe.

Can dogs eat cranberries?

Yes, cranberries are safe for dogs and can provide various health benefits. They are used in recipes like Pumpkin Cranberry Turkey Dog Treats.

What are the benefits of pumpkin for dogs?

Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help with digestive issues in dogs. It is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, making it a healthy ingredient in dog treats.

Is it safe to give dogs bone broth?

Yes, bone broth is safe and nutritious for dogs. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and can help support joint health. Just make sure to remove any bones before serving.

Can I use peanut butter in dog treats?

Yes, peanut butter is commonly used in dog treats. Just make sure it does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

How do I know the right serving size for homemade dog treats?

Serving sizes can vary based on the treat and the size of your dog. For example, Doggie Pumpkin Pie serving sizes should be adjusted according to your dog's weight and dietary needs. Always consult with your vet if you're unsure.

*Food for Bark strives to deliver accurate and current pet care information. However, we are not veterinarians. Our content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not replace professional veterinarians' advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet's health. Use of our site indicates your agreement to this disclaimer and absolves us of responsibility for any outcomes from applying the information provided.
Hilda Wong

Hello! I'm a lifelong dog enthusiast, with a passion that's been part of me since childhood. Growing up, my home was always filled with the joyful presence of dogs. This wasn't just a coincidence; my family holds a deep-seated belief that dogs are more than pets—they are guardians that protect us from misfortune. This belief has profoundly shaped my life. We've always held the view that it's essential to have a dog in the household. In our tradition, if we sadly lose one, we honor their memory by welcoming a new furry friend into our lives. This cycle of care and companionship has been a cornerstone of my upbringing. For me, taking care of dogs is not just a responsibility; it's a way to show gratitude for the joy and protection they bring into our lives. Each dog I've had the privilege of caring for has taught me invaluable lessons about loyalty, joy, and unconditional love. I strive to give them the best life possible, just as they enrich mine every single day.

Hilda Wong