Fall Dog Treats

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 this one, you’ll mix pureed plain pumpkin with ground turkey, eggs, rolled oats, and oat or whole-wheat flour. Mix the wet ingredients together, and then add the oats and flour. Divide the snacks into individual portions. You may want to get a silicone mold with bone-shapes. Once you have them parceled out, bake for about 20 minutes at 325. Let them cool before giving them to your pooch. Remember to have Fido do a trick for his treat!

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 are just a few of the things you can make for your canine companion. You’ll find many more great recipes online. You can also make your own! Just stick with safe ingredients. Never give Fido garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, or raisins; avocado; any fruit with seeds or pips; coffee; chocolate; or anything with xylitol and/or a lot of salt, sugar, or fat. Meat on the bone is also unsafe, as is raw dough. While focusing on what’s safe to feed, it’s also crucial to be aware of health issues that could affect your dog. Learn more about one such serious health concern during ‘Canine Lymphoma Awareness Month‘. Ask your vet for more information.

Our Advice on Fall Dog Treats

What are some dog-friendly fall treats I can make at home?

For homemade dog-friendly fall treats, try Pumpkin Yums with pureed pumpkin, ground turkey, oats, or Apple Chicken Treats combining grated apple, carrots, and peanut butter. Sweet Potato Jerky, made from thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked until crisp, is also a great choice. These treats are seasonal and healthy for your pup; avoid harmful ingredients like garlic, onions, and chocolate. Always consult your vet for dietary advice specific to your dog.

How do you make Pumpkin yams for dogs, and what are the ingredients?

To make Pumpkin Yums for dogs, you’ll need pureed plain pumpkin, ground turkey, eggs, rolled oats, and oat or whole-wheat flour. Mix the wet ingredients (pumpkin, turkey, eggs), then blend in the oats and flour. Portion the batter using a silicone mold or spoon into small portions, and bake at 325°F for about 20 minutes. Let them cool before serving. These treats are a nutritious, seasonal delight for dogs, but always check with your vet regarding your dog’s specific dietary needs.

What is the recipe for making Apple Chicken Treat for dogs?

For Apple Chicken Treats for dogs, gather one ¼ cup grated carrots, 1 cup grated apple, ½ cup natural peanut butter, two eggs, and instant oats. Mix the grated apple, carrots, and oats in one bowl and blend the peanut butter and eggs in another. Combine them to form a batter. Portion into small treats and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. These treats are a wholesome dog snack, but always consult your vet for any specific dietary concerns.

What are the critical tips for making homemade dog treats?

When making homemade dog treats, use safe, dog-friendly ingredients. Avoid garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, avocado, chocolate, caffeine, and xylitol. Opt for lean meats, dog-safe fruits and veggies, and whole grains. Ensure treats are appropriately sized for your dog to prevent choking hazards. Avoid excessive fat, salt, and sugar. Always cook meats thoroughly and avoid raw dough. Consult your vet for tailored dietary advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions. Homemade treats should complement, not replace, a balanced diet.

Which ingredients should be avoided in homemade dog treats for dogs?

Avoid ingredients toxic to dogs in homemade dog treats like chocolate, xylitol (a sweetener found in many products), grapes, raisins, avocado, garlic, onions, and caffeine. Steer clear of nuts, especially macadamia nuts, and avoid excessive salt, sugar, and fat. Raw dough, yeast, and bones can also be harmful. Always check with your vet, as some dogs have specific dietary restrictions or allergies. Safety first to keep your furry friend healthy and happy!

Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? As your local Easley, SC animal clinic, we’re here to help! Contact us anytime!