It’s that time of year again—pumpkin spice is everywhere! But did you know that pumpkin isn’t just for lattes and pies? It’s also a fantastic, healthy treat for your dog, especially when used as a training reward.

Why Pumpkin?

Pumpkin is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins A, C, and E, and beta-carotene. It’s gentle on your dog’s stomach and can help with digestion, making it a perfect treat to use during training sessions.

How to Use Pumpkin Filling for Dog Training

1. Choose the Right Pumpkin: 

Ensure you’re using plain canned pumpkin filling, not spiced or sweetened. Look for 100% pure pumpkin with no added sugars or spices.

2. Freeze for Longer-Lasting Treats: 

Pour the pumpkin into ice cube trays and freeze it. These frozen pumpkin cubes make excellent training treats, especially on warmer days.

3. Mix with Kibble:

If your dog is food-motivated, mix a spoonful of pumpkin with their kibble during training. The rich aroma of pumpkin will make their regular food even more appealing.

4. Stuff in a Kong:

For a fun and engaging training reward, stuff some pumpkin filling inside a Kong toy. This not only keeps your dog entertained but also provides a nutritious treat during their training sessions.

5. Pumpkin-Peanut Butter Combo: 

Mix equal parts of pumpkin and peanut butter (make sure the peanut butter doesn’t contain xylitol) and use it as a high-reward treat. This is especially great for teaching new commands or reinforcing good behavior.

Benefits of Pumpkin for Training

• Low-Calorie Treat: Pumpkin is low in calories, so it’s a guilt-free reward you can give without worrying about weight gain.

• Digestive Aid: The fiber in pumpkin helps with digestion, which is especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

• Flavorful Reward: The natural sweetness of pumpkin makes it an irresistible treat for most dogs, keeping them motivated during training.

Easy Pumpkin Treat Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe to make your own pumpkin dog treats at home:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of pure canned pumpkin

- 1/2 cup of plain yogurt or unsweetened applesauce

- 1 egg

- 2 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour (or a gluten-free alternative)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until a dough forms.

3. Roll out the dough and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.

4. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the treats are firm.

Let the treats cool before serving them to your pup, and store the extras in an airtight container.

This pumpkin season, treat your dog to something special! Incorporating pumpkin into your training routine is a fun and healthy way to keep them motivated and on their best behavior.

Happy training!

P.S. Share your pumpkin treat creations with us on social media—we’d love to see how your dog enjoys their seasonal snacks! 🎃🐾