Name: Cheesy Pumpkin Bites for Dogs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 20
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened; not pie filling); ¾ cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 large egg; 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour; ¼ cup rolled oats (optional for extra texture); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2–3 tablespoons water (as needed)

1. A Treat Inspired by Family Tradition

Growing up, summers at my Benji’s countryside home were filled with the scent of ripening pumpkins. After she baked her famous pumpkin pies, the leftover pumpkin never went to waste. The scraps were composted, and the extra flesh was turned into simple, wholesome treats for her little terrier, Bricco.

That memory inspired this recipe an easy, nourishing blend of creamy cheddar and naturally sweet pumpkin. These treats are perfect for rewarding good behavior, taking to doggie playdates, or simply sharing a bit of homemade love from your kitchen.

2. Why Pumpkin and Cheese Make a Great Dog-Friendly Duo

Pumpkin: Gentle on the Belly

Pumpkin is rich in fiber, great for digestion, and packed with beta carotene, which supports skin, eyesight, and immunity. Its hydrating, cooling nature makes it especially nice for warm weather.

Cheese: Flavor Dogs Love

Cheddar adds a satisfying boost of protein and calcium, and its bold flavor is irresistible to many pups. Used in moderation, it helps bind the dough and makes each treat extra enticing.

3. Ingredients & Nutrition Overview

This batch makes about 20 small to medium treats ideal for training or daily snacking.

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened; not pie filling)
¾ cup grated cheddar cheese
1 large egg
2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
¼ cup rolled oats (optional for extra texture)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2–3 tablespoons water (as needed)

Estimated Nutrition (Per Treat)

Calories: 45–50
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 1.5 g
Fiber: 1 g

4. How to Make Pumpkin Cheese Dog Treats

Timing

Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 20–25 minutes
Cool: 10 minutes
Total: ~45 minutes

Step 1: Preheat

Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Mix pumpkin purée, egg, and olive oil until smooth.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour, cheese, and oats. If the dough feels dry, add water slowly until it becomes soft and workable.

Step 4: Roll & Shape

Roll the dough to about ½ inch thick, then cut into shapes using cookie cutters. Re roll scraps until everything is used.

Step 5: Bake

Place treats on your baking sheet and bake 20–25 minutes, until firm and golden.
For an extra crispy finish, leave them in the warm oven for another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Cool & Store

Let the treats cool completely before serving.

Storage:

Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 3 weeks
Frozen: 3 months

Summer Tip:
Serve them frozen for a refreshing, crunchy treat.

5. Storage Tips for Freshness

Keep treats fully cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Use airtight containers and keep them in a cool, dry place.
In humid climates, adding a food safe moisture absorber can help prevent mold.

6. Fun Variations to Try

Cheese Swaps

Mozzarella, parmesan, or mild goat cheese can replace cheddar.

Herb Boosters

Add up to ½ teaspoon of:

Parsley (fresh breath)
Rosemary (antioxidants)
Turmeric (anti inflammatory)

Sweet Add Ins

Try a spoonful of applesauce or a little grated carrot for natural sweetness.

Grain Free Version

Use chickpea flour, oat flour, or coconut/almond flour blends adjusting water as needed.

Softer Treats

Reduce baking time by 5–7 minutes for senior dogs or pups with sensitive teeth.

7. Safety & Portion Guidance

Give in moderation these are treats, not meals.
- Small dogs: 1 per day
- Medium dogs: up to 2
- Large dogs: 2–3
Introduce new ingredients gradually.
Avoid ingredients like garlic, onion, nutmeg, or sweeteners.
If your dog has dietary restrictions, ask your vet before including cheese or higher-fat ingredients.

8. Serving Ideas & Engagement

Use as training rewards thanks to their firm texture.

Break into smaller pieces for puzzle toys and enrichment games.

Perfect for dog birthdays, holiday gatherings, or summer meetups package them in cute treat bags!