These homemade chew twists are made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter, and oats. They’re a safe, tasty, and nutritious way to treat your dog with something special and healthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists are a simple, budget-friendly way to make healthy treats for your dog at home. They’re free from artificial additives, packed with nutrients, and made with pet-safe ingredients. Pumpkin is great for digestion, peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, and oats add fiber. The chewy texture helps keep dogs engaged, making these perfect for training rewards, daily treats, or a special snack between meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsweetened, no xylitol)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp water (if needed to adjust consistency)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add the egg and honey (if using) and mix to combine.
- Gradually incorporate the flour and oats until a thick dough forms.
- If the dough is too dry, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to adjust consistency.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into strips using a knife or pizza cutter and twist each strip into a spiral.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
- Allow to cool completely before serving to your dog.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12–15 treats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per treat: Approximately 60 kcal
Variations
- Grain-Free Option: Substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or a grain-free blend.
- Add-Ins: Mix in small amounts of dog-safe extras like shredded carrots or apples.
- Shape Options: Use cookie cutters for fun shapes instead of twists.
- Crunchier Treats: Bake a few extra minutes for a firmer texture.
- Soft Treats: Bake for a shorter time if your dog prefers softer chews.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container or bag for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving. These treats do not require reheating.
FAQs
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Yes, as long as it’s unsweetened and does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?
No, only use 100% pure pumpkin puree with no added sugar or spices.
What type of oats should I use?
Rolled oats are ideal. Avoid instant oats, as they are more processed.
Can I make these treats gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour that is safe for dogs, such as oat flour.
How many treats can I give my dog per day?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Are these treats suitable for puppies?
Yes, but consult your vet if your puppy is under 12 weeks old or has dietary restrictions.
Can I add meat or cheese?
Yes, small amounts of finely shredded cheese or cooked meat can be mixed in, if tolerated.
What’s the benefit of pumpkin in dog treats?
Pumpkin supports healthy digestion and is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
How do I make the twists uniform in size?
Use a ruler or guide to cut strips evenly before twisting.
Can I dry these out further for long-lasting chews?
Yes, reduce the oven temperature to 200°F (95°C) and bake for an additional 30–45 minutes.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists are a healthy, homemade way to spoil your dog with a treat that’s both tasty and beneficial. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of chewy snacks that your dog will eagerly look forward to. Whether for training, rewarding good behavior, or simply showing love, these treats are a safe and wholesome option for dogs of all ages.
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs
Nutritious and homemade dog treats made with pumpkin, peanut butter, oats, and whole wheat flour. These chewy twists are perfect for rewarding your furry friend with a healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 treats 1x
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Pet
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsweetened, no xylitol)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp water (if needed to adjust consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree and peanut butter until well combined.
- Add the egg and honey (if using), and stir to incorporate.
- Gradually mix in flour and oats until a dough forms. Add water if needed to adjust consistency.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into strips and twist each strip into a spiral shape.
- Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
- Cool completely before serving to your dog.
Notes
- Ensure peanut butter does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for longer shelf life.
- Always supervise your dog while they enjoy treats.
- These treats are for supplemental feeding only and not a meal replacement.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 treat
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg