There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming coziness of autumn—the crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and of course, the wonderful flavors that come with the season. Our dogs may not sip on pumpkin spice lattes, but they certainly can enjoy the savory goodness of these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls for Dogs.

This recipe is simple to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and offers the perfect balance of flavors and nutrients for your beloved pet. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the recipe while sharing a few personal experiences along the way—because cooking for our pups is all about love and care. Whether you’re new to homemade dog treats or already a pro at whipping up canine cuisine, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why Homemade Dog Treats Are the Best Choice

As a dog parent, I’m always looking for ways to give my furry friend the best nutrition possible. That’s what led me down the path of homemade dog treats. Unlike store-bought snacks, these treats give me complete control over the ingredients. I know exactly what goes into each bite, and I can tailor the recipe to meet my pup’s needs.

Benefits of Homemade Treats

One of the best things about these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls is their versatility. Pumpkin is a fall favorite that’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, while turkey provides a lean source of protein that’s gentle on the stomach. Plus, the addition of rolled oats and carrots makes these treats both delicious and nutritious.

When I first started making dog treats at home, I was a bit unsure about the process. Would it be time-consuming? Would my dog even like them? The first time I tried making homemade treats, it was a simple peanut butter and oat recipe, and to my delight, my pup absolutely loved it. From then on, I was hooked, and I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different recipes to keep him happy and healthy.

The Turkey & Pumpkin Balls were an instant hit. I still remember how the first time I made them, my pup’s wagging tail and excited eyes told me everything I needed to know—they were a huge success. I couldn’t get over how easy they were to make, and since then, they’ve become a staple in our household.

Ingredients You Will Need

Before we get started, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. This simple list uses pantry staples that are easy to find, and they come together beautifully to make these nutritious treats.

• 1 pound ground turkey 🦃
• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) 🎃
• 1/2 cup rolled oats 🌾
• 1/4 cup carrots (grated) 🥕
• 1 egg (beaten) 🥚
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) 🌟
• Note: Garlic powder is controversial in pet care, so this is entirely optional. Always consult with your vet if you are unsure.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional) 🌿

The combination of ground turkey and pumpkin is not only flavorful but also beneficial for your pup’s digestive health. Pumpkin is well known for aiding digestion, and it pairs perfectly with lean ground turkey, which provides a good protein boost without excess fat.

Ingredient Spotlight: Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a true superstar ingredient when it comes to canine nutrition. It’s rich in fiber, which helps support digestion—particularly helpful if your dog has a sensitive stomach. It’s also loaded with Vitamin A, which is great for vision and immune health. Just be sure to use pure pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that aren’t safe for dogs.

For more pumpkin-inspired recipes, be sure to check out these Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs—a frozen treat perfect for any season!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking. This step is crucial for easy cleanup!

I can’t count the number of times I’ve skipped lining a pan and regretted it. Parchment paper is a game-changer. It ensures you don’t lose any of those valuable nutrients stuck to the baking sheet, and it makes cleaning up a breeze—something that’s especially helpful if you’ve got an excited pup underfoot while you’re trying to cook.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients:

• Ground turkey
• Pumpkin purée
• Rolled oats
• Grated carrots
• Beaten egg
• Optional: garlic powder and dried parsley for extra flavor

Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Mixing by hand might be a bit messy, but it allows you to ensure that all the ingredients are distributed evenly. Personally, I love involving my kids in this part—they get to enjoy the tactile experience, and our dog loves the extra attention from his little humans.

I still remember when my daughter, who was about five at the time, decided to “help” by sneaking some extra oats into the mixture. The treats ended up with a bit more crunch than intended, but our dog didn’t seem to mind one bit! It’s those little moments that make baking for your pets such a heartwarming experience.

3. Form the Turkey & Pumpkin Balls

Next, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. The size is up to you, but I usually aim for golf ball-sized treats. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space in between.

When rolling the balls, it’s helpful to wet your hands slightly. This keeps the mixture from sticking and makes it much easier to work with. It’s also a great trick to get smoother, more evenly shaped treats, which means they’ll cook more consistently.

If you want to get creative, you could even use small cookie cutters to make different shapes. Just flatten the mixture slightly and press your favorite cookie cutter into it. We’ve done bone-shaped treats before, and the kids had so much fun making them.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The turkey & pumpkin balls should be cooked through and golden in color. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overcook. The smell that fills your kitchen will be incredible, and your dog might even hang out by the oven, eagerly waiting for their treat!

One of the joys of baking these treats is that they make the house smell wonderful—not unlike a savory autumn stew. I have often joked that I wouldn’t mind eating one myself, and I’ll admit that once, curiosity got the best of me. While they’re a bit bland for my taste, the wholesome ingredients make them perfectly safe for humans too!

5. Cool Completely Before Serving

Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your dog. Cooling is important because hot treats could burn your dog’s mouth, and cooling also helps the flavors settle.

I usually set the tray on a cooling rack and keep a watchful eye on our dog—he knows when I’m making something for him, and he can hardly contain his excitement. Giving the treats enough time to cool is key, as I learned the hard way once when I gave in to those puppy-dog eyes a little too soon.

6. Storage Tips

Store the Turkey & Pumpkin Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them if you’d like to make a larger batch—just thaw a few as needed. I usually make a double batch so I can keep some on hand for when my dog deserves a little something special, which is, well, most days!

How to Freeze the Treats

Freezing is a great option if you’d like to extend the shelf life of these delicious snacks. To freeze, simply lay the treats out on a baking sheet so they’re not touching each other, then freeze until solid (usually about an hour). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. This method helps keep the treats from sticking together, so you can easily grab just a few at a time.

A Healthy Snack Your Dog Will Love

These Turkey & Pumpkin Balls aren’t just tasty—they’re good for your dog too. They contain lean protein, fiber, and vitamins that help keep your pup healthy and happy. Making these treats for my dog always feels special, especially knowing that I’m giving him a wholesome snack without any artificial preservatives or fillers.

If you’re looking for more wholesome dog treat ideas, you might also enjoy Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs or Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs. These recipes are all easy to make, nutritious, and most importantly, sure to delight your furry friend.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s break down why these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls are so nutritious:

• Ground Turkey: Turkey is a lean source of protein, which is essential for your dog’s muscle development and maintenance. Unlike fattier meats, turkey is less likely to cause digestive upset, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Pumpkin: As mentioned, pumpkin is high in fiber, which helps to regulate your dog’s digestive system. It’s also packed with Vitamin A, which supports immune function and vision health.
• Rolled Oats: Oats are a fantastic source of fiber and contain a host of vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins. They’re also a good option for dogs who are sensitive to wheat or other grains.
• Carrots: Carrots provide beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, and they also help promote good dental health for dogs by reducing plaque.
• Eggs: Eggs are a powerhouse of protein and fatty acids, which help maintain your dog’s skin and coat health.

Customizing the Recipe for Your Pup

One of my favorite parts about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can make small adjustments depending on your dog’s preferences or dietary needs.

• Add Blueberries: If your pup loves a touch of sweetness, consider adding a handful of blueberries to the mix. They’re rich in antioxidants and offer an extra burst of flavor. For more blueberry-inspired treats, you can also try Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs.
• Replace Oats with Quinoa: For dogs with grain sensitivities, substitute rolled oats with cooked quinoa. It’s gluten-free and adds extra protein to the mix.
• Homemade Peanut Butter Drizzle: For a special occasion, you could drizzle a bit of Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs over the cooled treats. Be careful with portion sizes since peanut butter is quite calorie-dense, but it makes a lovely addition for those days when your dog deserves something a little extra special.

Turkey & Pumpkin Balls: A Year-Round Treat

While pumpkin is often associated with autumn, this recipe is perfect for any time of year. The ingredients are available year-round, and the combination of flavors makes it an irresistible treat no matter the season. Whenever I make these treats, it feels like I’m giving my dog a little taste of fall—comforting, warm, and filled with love.

One of my favorite memories with these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls was during a family hike last October. We took a batch with us, and every time we paused to rest, our pup got to enjoy a treat while we enjoyed the crisp autumn air. It was the perfect way to celebrate the season together, and these treats made the outing feel extra special.

Our dog is a member of the family, and making these treats is my way of including him in our seasonal traditions. Plus, since they’re healthy, I don’t have to worry about overindulging him. It’s such a great feeling to know I’m giving my pup something that’s genuinely good for him—both in terms of nutrition and joy.

More Recipes to Explore

Cooking for your dog can be a wonderful bonding experience, and there are so many treats you can create right in your own kitchen. If your pup loved these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls, why not explore more delicious recipes? Here are a few favorites:

• Bull Penis Dog Treats: High in protein, these are a unique chew treat for your pup.
• Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs: Perfect for cooling your pup down during the warmer months.
• Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs: Simple to make and packed with healthy oats.

For more dog treat inspiration, you can also explore our collection on Pinterest. Whether you’re planning a special occasion for your dog or just want to make every day a little more fun, there’s always a recipe to try!

Incorporating Homemade Treats Into Your Dog’s Routine

While treats are a great way to show your dog some extra love, it’s important to remember that they should complement a balanced diet, not replace it. I generally use these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls as training rewards, but they also make a wonderful post-walk snack or a way to give my dog some extra calories on particularly active days.

Portion Control and Treat Frequency

Even though these treats are healthy, portion control is still key. You should consider your dog’s daily caloric intake and ensure that treats only make up around 10% of their daily calories. These Turkey & Pumpkin Balls can be broken into smaller pieces if you have a small dog or want to use them as training treats.

Creating a Treat Jar Tradition

In our home, we keep a jar of homemade treats on the counter. This has become known as the “special jar,” and even though our pup doesn’t speak our language, he sure knows what the word “special” means. Whenever one of the kids or I say, “Who wants something special?” our dog’s ears perk up, and he comes running.

The treats in the jar vary—we cycle through recipes like these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls, Oatmeal Cookies, and Banana and Honey Biscuits—but each one is made with love, and our dog can certainly tell. I think that having that treat jar has become part of the daily rhythm of our household. It’s a little moment of happiness that we all share, and it’s a beautiful way to include our furry family member in our everyday lives.

The Joy of Cooking for Your Dog

Cooking for our pets may seem like an extra effort, but the truth is that it’s an effort that pays off tenfold. The happiness, the wagging tail, the eager eyes—every time I make a batch of homemade treats, I’m reminded of why I do it. It’s not just about the nutrients or the flavors; it’s about the bond we share and the way we show our love.

And at the end of the day, there’s no better reward than seeing your dog’s tail wag in anticipation, knowing that you made something special just for them. That’s what these Turkey & Pumpkin Balls for Dogs are all about—creating moments of joy and connection.

So why not preheat that oven and get mixing? Your dog will thank you with endless tail wags and maybe even a few extra cuddles. And don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear how your pup enjoys these treats—feel free to drop a comment or explore even more recipes for dogs at My Dog Recipe. Happy baking!

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