Autumn Treats For Dogs

Autumn is here, and the stores are filling up with pumpkin-flavored everything. Many of you likely have seasonal favorites, whether that means a caramel latte, pumpkin desserts, or even candy corn. Our canine pals can also enjoy a few fall snacks! Read on as a local Washington DC vet lists some things you can give Fido this fall.

Pumpkin Yums

Combine one can of pureed pumpkin with some natural peanut butter, an egg, and some whole-wheat flour. Form into balls, or use a bone-shaped mold to divide the batter into small portions. Bake for about 15-20 minutes at 350F, or until you get the desired crunchiness. Just be sure to use peanut butter that does not contain xylitol, as it is toxic to Fido.

Sweet Potato Jerky

Start by slicing a sweet potato into small strips or rounds. These should be about a quarter inch thick. Bake in the oven at 225 for about 3 or 4 hours. Before giving them to your pup, let them cool off. Make sure they’re a manageable size for Fido, and don’t pose a choking risk. 

Sweet Potato Treats

For this one, you’ll mix one cooked and mashed tater with two and a half cups of whole wheat flour, two large eggs, and a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce. Divide into small portions and cook for about 20 minutes at 350F.

Apple Carrot Treats

These tend to be popular with both people and pets. You’ll need to combine two and a half cups of whole wheat flour, a half cup of grated carrots, a half cup of oats, and one cored, chopped apple. (Be sure to remove the seeds.) In a separate bowl, mix an egg, one third cup of olive oil, and a little water. Then, combine everything together, roll out the dough, and divide into portions. Twenty minutes at 350F should do it! 

Chicken

Cooked, plain chicken and turkey are also good for Fido. Just be sure to remove the skin, bones, and fat first. You can combine ground turkey with an egg, pureed squash or pumpkin, and almond or whole-wheat flour. You can also add cranberries, turmeric, or cinnamon. As with the other recipes, you’ll want to divide the mixture into small pieces, though you can also spread it across a cookie sheet and cut into squares when it’s cooked.

Please feel free to contact us, your Washington DC vet, with any questions about your dog’s diet or care. We’re here to help!