When fall rolls around or your dog’s tummy needs a little extra love, there’s nothing better than a batch of Pumpkin Oatmeal Dog Biscuits baking in the oven. These homemade treats are crunchy, satisfying, and made with dog-safe, wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Pumpkin is not only seasonal and delicious—it’s incredibly beneficial for your dog’s digestion. Paired with rolled oats and a touch of peanut butter, these biscuits are high in fiber, naturally flavored, and perfect for pups of all sizes. They bake up with a crispy texture and can be made in fun shapes your dog will love to crunch.
This recipe is ideal for regular treating, homemade gift bags, or even as part of a training rotation. Once you see how easy they are to make, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought.
Why Your Dog Will Love This Recipe
These biscuits are packed with flavor and crunch. Dogs love the smell and taste of pumpkin, and the peanut butter adds an irresistible richness. Rolled oats give them a hearty texture and boost of fiber. The biscuits are firm enough to promote chewing (great for dental health) yet made from ingredients that are gentle on sensitive stomachs. Whether you’re using them as a daily reward or a crunchy snack between meals, your pup will happily come running every time the jar opens.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup natural unsweetened peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 2 eggs
- 2 1/2 cups rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned)
- 2–2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (start with 2 cups, add more if needed)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (dog-safe in small amounts)
Pro Tips
- Use 100% pure pumpkin—check that the label doesn’t include sugar, spices, or fillers.
- Roll between two sheets of parchment to avoid sticking without using excess flour.
- Choose the right size cutter based on your dog’s breed—small bones for tiny pups, bigger ones for large breeds.
- For extra crunch, let the biscuits sit in the turned-off oven for 1–2 hours after baking.
- Use a food processor to pulse the oats slightly for a finer texture if you prefer smoother biscuits.
Tools Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (bone or paw shape, optional)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Food processor (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
- Wheat-free: Use oat flour, rice flour, or a gluten-free baking blend.
- No peanut butter: Substitute with mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce.
- Extra boost: Add 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds for omega-3s.
- Flavor variety: Mix in a pinch of turmeric or dried parsley for added health benefits and breath freshening.
- Soft treats option: For softer biscuits, reduce the flour slightly and bake for less time (12–14 minutes).
Make Ahead Tips
Make a big batch of dough and freeze half for future baking. Shape and freeze raw biscuits on a tray, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen with just a few extra minutes in the oven.
Baked biscuits store well and can also be frozen for long-term use, making this an excellent recipe for weekly or monthly meal prep.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, peanut butter, and eggs until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in the oats and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a thick dough forms. If the dough is sticky, add more flour 1/4 cup at a time until it becomes workable.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
On a floured surface or between parchment paper, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
Step 5: Bake
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until dry and firm to the touch. For crispier biscuits, bake up to 25 minutes.
Step 6: Cool
Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely. The biscuits will firm up more as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
- Offer as a daily crunchy snack
- Use as a training reward (break into smaller pieces if needed)
- Pair with a dollop of plain yogurt for a special treat
- Add to dog gift baskets or use as party favors for dog birthdays
- Store in a treat jar and give one after each walk or play session
Allergy-Friendly Substitutions
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oat flour or a GF baking blend.
- Peanut allergy: Use pureed pumpkin + banana or unsweetened sunflower seed butter.
- Egg-free: Replace each egg with 1 tablespoon chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water (let sit for 5–10 mins).
- No oats: Use more flour or try cooked quinoa as a filler.
Leftovers and Storage
Allow treats to cool fully before storing:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight jar or tin for up to 7 days.
- Refrigerator: Extend freshness up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight or at room temperature before serving.
To keep biscuits crunchy, avoid storing in sealed containers while still warm—moisture can soften them.
Nutrition & Benefits
These biscuits are filled with natural fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Pumpkin supports digestive health and is known to help regulate both constipation and diarrhea. Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, promoting heart health and fullness. Peanut butter adds protein and healthy fat, giving your dog lasting energy between meals.
There are no preservatives, added sugar, or artificial ingredients—just clean, real food baked into a fun and functional treat.
Recipe FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes, just make sure it’s fully cooked and mashed. Avoid using pie pumpkins with added sugar or spice.
Q: Can I make these softer?
A: Yes, reduce baking time to 12–14 minutes for a softer cookie. Store in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Q: Are these okay for small dogs or puppies?
A: Absolutely! Just cut them into smaller shapes or break them up before serving.
Q: Can I double the batch?
A: Yes! This recipe doubles easily and freezes well—great for bulk baking.
Q: My dough is crumbly—what should I do?
A: Add a little water or more pumpkin, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Recipe Wrap-Up
These Pumpkin Oatmeal Dog Biscuits are easy to make, great for your dog’s digestion, and absolutely packed with flavor dogs love. They’re a perfect fall treat—or really, an anytime snack that’s both healthy and satisfying. With a simple ingredient list, plenty of customization options, and long shelf life, this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.