Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs

Homemade dog treats are a fantastic way to ensure your furry friend is getting healthy, wholesome ingredients. These Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs are packed with natural flavors and nutrients that your dog will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious snack that’s both chewy and full of fiber and vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 2 large carrots
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Prepare Carrots: Peel the carrots and slice them lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Coat Carrots: In a bowl, mix the carrot strips with the pumpkin puree and olive oil until they are evenly coated.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated carrot strips in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake: Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping the strips halfway through. The chews are ready when the carrots are dried and chewy.
6. Cool: Allow the chews to cool completely before serving them to your dog.

Servings and Timing:

This recipe makes approximately 10-12 carrot and pumpkin chews, depending on the size of your carrot strips.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours

Variations:

• Sweet Potato Chews: Substitute the carrots with sweet potatoes for a change of flavor. Slice them similarly and follow the same steps.
• Add Cinnamon: Sprinkle a small amount of cinnamon over the chews before baking for an extra boost of flavor and added antioxidants.
• Banana Carrot Chews: Add a mashed ripe banana to the pumpkin puree for a sweeter treat.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store the chews in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months.
• Reheating: If your dog prefers the treats warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds. However, ensure they are cooled down before serving.

10 FAQs:

1. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree? No, canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can be harmful to dogs. Always use unsweetened pumpkin puree.
2. Are these chews safe for puppies? Yes, these chews are safe for puppies as long as they are introduced gradually into their diet.
3. Can I use other types of oil? Yes, you can use coconut oil or sunflower oil as an alternative to olive oil.
4. How long can I store the chews? You can refrigerate them for up to one week or freeze them for up to two months.
5. Can I use baby carrots for this recipe? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since baby carrots are smaller.
6. Are these chews suitable for all dog breeds? Yes, these chews are suitable for most dog breeds, but always supervise your dog when introducing new treats.
7. What if my dog doesn’t like pumpkin? You can substitute the pumpkin with mashed sweet potatoes or applesauce (unsweetened).
8. Can I use dried carrots instead of fresh ones? Fresh carrots are recommended for this recipe to achieve the chewy texture.
9. Can these chews be made in a dehydrator? Yes, you can use a dehydrator instead of an oven. Set it to 135°F and dehydrate for 6-8 hours.
10. How often can I give these chews to my dog? These treats should be given in moderation, about 1-2 chews per day depending on your dog’s size and dietary needs.

Conclusion:

These Carrot & Pumpkin Chews are an easy-to-make, healthy alternative to store-bought dog treats. Packed with fiber, beta-carotene, and natural oils, they support your dog’s digestive health while giving them something to happily chew on. With a few variations and easy storage options, you can customize these treats to suit your dog’s preferences. Give them a try, and watch your dog enjoy a chewy, nutritious snack!

Print