As a devoted dog parent, there’s something incredibly special about making your own dog treats at home. Not only does it ensure your pup is getting all-natural, healthy ingredients, but it’s also a bonding experience that shows just how much you care. Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite homemade dog treat recipes: Banana and Pumpkin Chews.

These soft, chewy bars are packed with the flavors of two beloved ingredients that are as nutritious as they are tasty—ripe bananas and earthy pumpkin. Together, they create the perfect snack that will have your furry friend wagging their tail and begging for more. And the best part? This recipe is easy, quick, and requires minimal effort, so you can whip up a batch whenever the mood strikes.

Whether your dog needs a snack during training, or you simply want to spoil them with a homemade treat, these Banana and Pumpkin Chews are the perfect solution. In this post, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to create these chews, while also diving into why the ingredients are so great for your dog and how you can store them for long-lasting freshness. I’ll also share a few variations and additional recipes so you can keep your pup’s taste buds excited with new flavors!

Why Banana and Pumpkin?

Before we get into the recipe, let’s explore why these ingredients are such fantastic choices for dog treats.

Bananas: A Sweet, Nutritious Superfood

Bananas are not only a popular snack for humans, but they also provide several health benefits for dogs. They are rich in:

Potassium: This essential mineral helps maintain proper heart function and regulates muscle and nerve functions.
Vitamin B6: An important vitamin that helps regulate brain function and metabolism.
Vitamin C: This antioxidant helps boost the immune system and supports overall health.
Fiber: Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help regulate your dog’s bowel movements.

Because bananas are naturally sweet, they add a delightful flavor to dog treats without needing any added sugars, making them a great option for dogs with a sweet tooth. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as too much banana can contribute to weight gain due to their sugar content.

Pumpkin: A Digestive Powerhouse

Pumpkin is often referred to as a superfood for dogs—and for good reason! It’s incredibly beneficial for their overall health, offering a wealth of nutrients, including:

Fiber: Like bananas, pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and can alleviate both constipation and diarrhea in dogs.
Vitamins A, C, and E: These vitamins are important for maintaining eye health, boosting the immune system, and keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
Beta-carotene: This antioxidant helps reduce inflammation and supports the immune system.

Pumpkin is especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those that suffer from digestive issues. Its mild flavor and smooth texture make it an ideal ingredient in dog treats that are easy on your dog’s stomach.

Combining bananas and pumpkin in dog treats results in a powerful nutritional duo that is both tasty and beneficial for your furry friend’s health.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now that you know the benefits of these two key ingredients, let’s gather what we’ll need to create these chewy, delicious treats. You may already have most of these ingredients in your pantry:

1 ripe banana: The riper the banana, the better! This will provide natural sweetness and moisture to the chews.
1/2 cup of pure pumpkin puree: Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains spices that aren’t safe for dogs.
1/4 cup of oats: Oats are an excellent source of fiber and add a chewy texture to the treats. If your dog has a sensitivity to grains, you can substitute with a gluten-free alternative like oat flour.
1/4 cup of whole wheat flour: This helps bind the chews together. If your dog is sensitive to wheat, you can substitute with coconut or almond flour.
1 tablespoon of peanut butter: Be sure to use natural peanut butter without xylitol, as this sweetener is toxic to dogs. Peanut butter adds a protein boost and a rich flavor that most dogs love.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add some extra ingredients to switch things up. For example, a few blueberries or a tablespoon of flaxseed can enhance the nutritional profile and add even more flavor. For a fun variation, try my Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews recipe that combines all these delicious ingredients!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part—let’s make these Banana and Pumpkin Chews! This recipe is super simple and only requires a few basic kitchen tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help dry out the chews while ensuring they don’t burn.

Step 2: Mash the Banana

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe banana with a fork until it’s completely smooth. If the banana has a few lumps, keep mashing until the texture is silky. The riper the banana, the easier this step will be!

Step 3: Add the Pumpkin and Peanut Butter

Next, mix in the pumpkin puree and peanut butter with the mashed banana. Stir the mixture until everything is thoroughly combined. You’ll notice the mixture becomes thick and creamy, with a wonderful aroma that your dog will likely start to notice!

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the oats and flour into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently fold the dry ingredients into the mixture until a thick dough forms. The dough should be soft and malleable but not too sticky. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the right consistency is reached.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. You can use a rolling pin or simply press it out with your hands. For an added bit of fun, use dog-themed cookie cutters to create shapes like bones or paws, or simply cut the dough into rectangular bars with a pizza cutter.

Step 6: Bake the Chews

Place the cut-out shapes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one. Bake the chews in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and slightly golden around the edges. Depending on your oven, you may need to rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the chews are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. The chews will continue to firm up as they cool. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed by your dog!

Why Your Dog Will Love These Chews

If you’ve ever seen the pure excitement on your dog’s face when they realize a treat is coming, you know just how rewarding it is to make them happy. These Banana and Pumpkin Chews are not only delicious but also healthy, which makes them the perfect choice for snack time or training rewards.

Taste and Texture

The natural sweetness of bananas and the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin make these chews irresistible to most dogs. Their soft and chewy texture also makes them ideal for dogs of all ages, from puppies to senior dogs who might have trouble with harder treats.

Health Benefits

In addition to being delicious, these chews are loaded with nutrients that support your dog’s overall health:

Digestive Health: The fiber from the pumpkin and oats helps regulate your dog’s digestive system, promoting healthy bowel movements and soothing upset stomachs.
Skin and Coat Health: The vitamins in pumpkin, particularly Vitamin A, help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Energy Boost: Bananas provide a natural source of energy, which is great for keeping your dog active and alert.

Tips for Personalizing This Recipe

One of the best things about making homemade dog treats is that you can customize the recipe to suit your dog’s preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ways to make these Banana and Pumpkin Chews even more special:

Add Some Blueberries

If your dog loves fruit, try adding a handful of blueberries to the dough before baking. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cell damage and support overall health. Plus, their tart flavor complements the sweetness of the banana perfectly.

Substitute for Grain-Free Flour

For dogs with grain sensitivities, you can easily substitute the whole wheat flour in this recipe for a gluten-free option like oat flour, coconut flour, or almond flour. Just keep in mind that each type of flour has a slightly different texture, so you may need to adjust the amount to achieve the right dough consistency.

Flaxseeds for Added Nutrition

For an extra boost of omega-3 fatty acids, sprinkle in a tablespoon of ground flaxseed. Flaxseeds are great for maintaining a healthy coat and reducing inflammation. They also add a slight crunch to the treats, which some dogs enjoy.

Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness

Once

you’ve baked these delicious treats, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh for as long as possible. Here are some simple storage tips to keep your chews at their best:

Short-Term Storage

If you plan on using the chews within a week, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain soft and fresh for up to 5-7 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the chews from drying out.

Long-Term Storage

For longer storage, you can freeze the chews for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to give your dog a treat, simply remove one from the freezer and let it thaw for a few minutes before serving. This is a great way to always have a healthy snack on hand without worrying about spoilage.

Other Delicious Treats for Your Dog

If your dog loved these Banana and Pumpkin Chews, why not explore more homemade treat options? Making a variety of treats keeps things exciting for your pup, and it ensures they’re getting a well-rounded diet of different nutrients. Here are some other great recipes you can try:

Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs: These easy-to-make oatmeal cookies are perfect for dogs who love a hearty, fiber-packed snack.
Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs: A Treat Your Pup Will Love: Combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the soothing properties of honey in this crunchy biscuit recipe.
Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs: Cool your dog off with these frozen pumpkin pupsicles—a refreshing treat for hot days.
Bull Penis Dog Treats: These protein-rich treats are a chewy delight that will keep your dog entertained and satisfied for hours.

For more inspiration and ideas, be sure to check out My Dog Recipe’s Pinterest page. You’ll find tons of creative treat ideas, DIY projects, and tips for spoiling your dog in the best way possible!

A Homemade Treat Filled with Love

At the end of the day, making homemade dog treats is more than just a fun kitchen activity—it’s a way to show your dog how much you care. These Banana and Pumpkin Chews are a perfect example of how simple, healthy ingredients can create something truly special for your furry friend. Whether you’re using them as a reward during training sessions or just spoiling your pup for being their adorable self, these treats are sure to bring joy to both of you.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of these wholesome chews. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails, happy barks, and maybe even a few extra cuddles.

And if you’re looking for even more ways to spoil your dog, don’t forget to explore all the fun and healthy recipes on My Dog Recipe. Happy baking!