8 DIY Dog Food Recipes with Pumpkin That’ll Have Your Pup Drooling
So, you’ve realized your furry best friend deserves more than the same boring kibble every day? Good news: pumpkin is here to save the day (and your pup’s taste buds).
Not only is pumpkin delicious for dogs, but it’s also packed with fiber, vitamins, and tummy-soothing magic. Plus, it’s versatile AF.
Let’s dive into 8 pumpkin-loaded recipes that will make your dog love you even more (if that’s even possible).
1. Pumpkin and Chicken Stew
Dogs love chicken. Dogs love pumpkin. Combine them, and you’ve got a match made in doggy heaven.
Ingredients:
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- 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin (plain, no sugar or spices—save the PSL vibes for yourself)
- 1/4 cup green beans, chopped
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
How to make it: Throw everything in a pot, simmer for about 10 minutes, and let it cool before serving. Easy, right? This stew is great for picky eaters or pups who act like they’re reviewing your cooking on Yelp.
No time for cooking? These biscuits with pumpkin & chia are my pup’s favorite.
2. Turkey, Pumpkin, and Green Bean Mash
Let’s be real: turkey isn’t just for Thanksgiving. Your dog deserves a feast too.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ground turkey, cooked
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup green beans, steamed and chopped
How to make it: Mash it all together like you’re making a chunky doggy dip. Serve it as-is or mix it with their regular food for a gourmet twist.
Pro Tip: This recipe is a lifesaver for dogs with sensitive tummies. Fiber + lean protein = happy pup.
3. Beef and Pumpkin Casserole
Who says casseroles are just for humans? This one is so good, you might even be tempted to try it yourself (we won’t judge).
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ground beef, cooked
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup quinoa, cooked
How to make it: Layer the ingredients in a baking dish, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, and let it cool. This dish is packed with protein and veggies, and your pup will think they’ve hit the jackpot.
4. Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Medley
Because let’s face it, sweet potatoes are the MVP of dog-friendly foods. Add pumpkin? You’ve got a nutritional powerhouse.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup steamed peas
How to make it: Mix it all up and serve. This is a great option for dogs who prefer softer foods, or for sneaking in extra veggies without them realizing. Sneaky, huh?
5. Salmon and Pumpkin Patties
Feel like being fancy? These patties are basically gourmet burgers for your dog. You might even feel underdressed serving them.
Ingredients:
- 1 can salmon (boneless, skinless, and packed in water)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 egg (to bind)
- 1/4 cup oats
How to make it: Mix everything, form into patties, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. These freeze well, so make extra for those days you’re too tired to cook. (Yes, we’re talking about you, not your dog.)
6. Lamb, Pumpkin, and Carrot Delight
This one’s for the bougie pups who demand top-tier meals. (Looking at you, Fluffy.)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked lamb, shredded or minced
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- A dash of parsley (for flair, obviously)
How to make it: Combine everything in a bowl and mix well. Serve warm for that extra cozy vibe your dog will appreciate.
7. Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Frozen Treats
Let’s keep things cool with these ridiculously easy frozen treats. Perfect for hot days or spoiling your dog just because.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter (check for xylitol!)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
How to make it: Mix the ingredients, spoon into silicone molds (bone-shaped, if you’re feeling extra), and freeze for a few hours. Your pup will thank you for this refreshing snack.
8. Pumpkin, Oats, and Blueberry Bites
Treats that are healthy and Instagram-worthy? Yes, please.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup oats
- 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 egg
How to make it: Mix, scoop into small balls, and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. These are perfect for training or just spoiling your dog because they exist (and let’s be honest, they deserve it).
Final Thoughts
There you have it: 8 pumpkin-packed recipes your dog will absolutely devour. Not only are these meals and treats super easy to make, but they’re also loaded with nutrients your pup needs to thrive. Bonus? You’ll feel like a rockstar dog parent for putting in the effort.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab that can of pumpkin, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking. Your dog might not say thank you out loud, but those tail wags and puppy-dog eyes will say it all. 🐶❤️
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
