Name: Homemade Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls for Dogs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Dog-Friendly
Ingredients: 1 cup of cooked and mashed sweet potato (peeled and boiled); 1/2 cup of canned or cooked pumpkin puree (unsweetened); 2 cups of rolled oats; 1/4 cup of peanut butter (unsalted and xylitol-free); Optional: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; Optional: A drizzle of honey; Optional: Chia seeds or flax seeds

There’s something heartwarming about making homemade dog treats. Not only does it show our furry friends how much we care, but it also gives us peace of mind knowing exactly what goes into each bite. This recipe for Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls is a major hit in my house—it’s simple, tasty, and packed with nutrients your pup will love. Today, I’m breaking down exactly how to whip these up and why they’re a great addition to your dog’s treat lineup.

Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?

When it comes to spoiling my dog, Rocky, I’ll admit I go all in. But after reading the labels on some store-bought treats—full of unpronounceable preservatives and fillers—I knew I had to find a better option. That’s when I turned to homemade treats. There’s just something special about knowing you’re giving your dog a treat made with love and whole ingredients.

These Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls hit all the marks. They’re easy to make, healthy, and a great way to use ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, they’re a lifesaver when Rocky’s begging for a snack!

Why Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Are Great for Dogs

Sweet Potato: The Superfood for Dogs

Sweet potatoes are more than just a tasty treat for your pup. They’re loaded with nutrients that can benefit your dog in many ways. Rich in dietary fiber, sweet potatoes support healthy digestion and can help regulate bowel movements. They’re also packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, which is great for eye health and immune support.

Nutritional Highlights of Sweet Potatoes:

High in fiber for digestive health
Packed with vitamins A, C, and B6
Low in fat but high in healthy carbohydrates

If your pup has a sensitive tummy, sweet potatoes can be a gentle option that delivers big benefits.

Pumpkin: A Digestive Wonder

Pumpkin is like the Swiss Army knife of dog-friendly foods. Whether your pup is dealing with an upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation, pumpkin can help balance things out. The high fiber content supports digestion, while the vitamins and antioxidants boost your dog’s overall health.

Why Pumpkin Is a Winner:

High in soluble fiber for smooth digestion
Loaded with vitamins A, C, and E
Low in calories, but full of nutrients

When you pair sweet potatoes with pumpkin, you’ve got yourself a treat that’s healthy, filling, and downright irresistible.

Looking for more pumpkin-based dog treats? Check out Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs for another hit recipe.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls

Making dog treats at home doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe keeps it simple while delivering big on flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you need to get started:

Main Ingredients:

1 cup of cooked and mashed sweet potato (peeled and boiled until soft)
½ cup of pumpkin puree (canned is fine—just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling)
2 cups of rolled oats (you can use old-fashioned or quick oats)
¼ cup of peanut butter (unsalted, and make sure it’s free from xylitol, which is toxic to dogs)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Goodness:

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a touch of flavor)
A drizzle of honey (if your pup enjoys a hint of sweetness)
Chia seeds or ground flaxseed (for added fiber and omega-3s)

Love peanut butter? Try our Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs: A Tail-Wagging Treat Your Pup Will Love. It’s always a favorite!

How to Make Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls for Dogs

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by peeling and boiling a sweet potato until it’s soft. Once cooked, mash it up with a fork and let it cool. If you’re using canned pumpkin puree, double-check to make sure there’s no added sugar or spices.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, pumpkin puree, and peanut butter. Mix it all together until you get a smooth, creamy texture. This is where the magic starts!

Step 3: Add the Oats

Slowly stir in the rolled oats. You want the mixture to be thick but easy to roll into balls. If you’re adding optional ingredients like ground cinnamon or chia seeds, now’s the time to mix those in.

Step 4: Roll Into Balls

Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls using your hands. Roll each ball in a bit of extra oats if you want a fun, textured coating. This adds a little crunch that dogs seem to love!

Step 5: Chill the Treats

Place the sweet potato pumpkin balls on a baking sheet or in a container and pop them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps the balls firm up and gives them a nice chewy texture.

Step 6: Treat Time!

Once the treats are chilled, they’re ready for your pup to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Why Oats Are a Great Addition to Dog Treats

Oats are one of my go-to ingredients for homemade dog treats. They’re affordable, healthy, and easy to digest. Plus, oats provide slow-burning energy, so your pup can stay active and happy throughout the day. They’re also great for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies since they’re gluten-free.

Want more oat-based treats? Check out our Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs.

My Experience: A Treat-Making Day with Rocky

I still remember the first time I made these treats for Rocky. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon, and I wanted to try something new for him. As soon as I started peeling the sweet potatoes, he was by my side, tail wagging and eyes wide. By the time I mixed the pumpkin and peanut butter, he was practically drooling.

When I finally gave him one of the finished treats, he gobbled it up in seconds and looked at me like I was the best person on earth. Seeing his excitement made it all worth it, and now these Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls are a regular in our treat rotation.

Making treats for your dog isn’t just about the food—it’s about the moments of joy and the bond you share. Plus, there’s nothing better than knowing exactly what’s in your dog’s snack.

Customizing Your Dog Treats

Change Up the Size

You can make these treats any size you want. Smaller treats are great for training rewards, while larger balls can be used for an occasional snack.

Extra Nutrients? No Problem!

Want to give your dog a little extra boost? Add ingredients like:

Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants
Carrots or apples (chopped): For a little crunch
Pumpkin seeds: Great for fiber and healthy fats

Freeze Them for Later

These treats freeze beautifully. Just pull one out whenever you need a quick snack for your dog, and you’re good to go.

For more frozen treats, try our Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs. Perfect for a hot day!

FAQ: Common Questions About These Treats

Are These Treats Safe for All Dogs?

In general, yes! But if your dog has any special dietary needs or sensitivities, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet first.

How Many Treats Can I Give My Dog?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Depending on the size of the treats and your dog’s weight, adjust accordingly.

Can I Swap Ingredients?

Absolutely! If your dog doesn’t tolerate peanut butter, try sunflower seed butter. Just make sure whatever you use is dog-safe and free of harmful additives like xylitol.

More Treats to Spoil Your Pup

Looking to treat your dog even more? Check out these other recipes that will have your furry friend begging for more:

Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs: A Treat Your Pup Will Love
Bull Penis Dog Treats (A natural chew option for dogs who love to gnaw)
Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs

For even more fun recipes, visit our Pinterest page.

Final Thoughts: Why Your Pup Deserves Homemade Treats

Making treats like these Sweet Potato Pumpkin Balls is about more than just food—it’s about the love and care we show our dogs

. There’s nothing like seeing the pure joy on your pup’s face when they get a treat made just for them. So grab those sweet potatoes, mix up some pumpkin, and get ready to make your dog’s day!