About the Recipe
These soft-baked bites are a savory alternative to the sweeter treats. The natural umami of Parmesan cheese is irresistible to most dogs, while pumpkin provides a boost of fiber. They are perfect for training, stuffing into puzzle toys, or as a simple "good dog" reward.
Ingredients
½ cup 100% Pure Canned Pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 large Egg
1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Coconut Oil, melted
1 ½ cups Whole Wheat Flour (or Oat Flour for a gluten-free option)
Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for fresh breath)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Create the Dough
In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.Gradually add the whole wheat flour and optional parsley, stirring until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour one tablespoon at a time.
Step 3: Roll and Cut
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. You can use a small cookie cutter (like a bone shape) or simply use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into small, bite-sized squares or strips. For training treats, aim for pea-sized pieces.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Place the cut-out treats on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm to the touch and the edges are just starting to turn a light golden brown.Let the treats cool completely on the baking sheet. They will harden slightly as they cool.
Serving Suggestion:
These are treats, so they should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake.
For Training: Use the pea-sized pieces. Their strong smell makes them a high-value reward.
As a Snack: 2-3 larger bites are perfect for a small dog, while a larger dog could have a few more.
Pro-Tip: For a crunchier texture, after baking, turn off the oven and let the treats sit inside as the oven cools completely. This will dry them out further. If your dog is sensitive to wheat, you can easily substitute oat flour by blending old-fashioned rolled oats in a food processor until fine
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.