Making dehydrated pumpkin dog chews at home is so easy. They’re simple, yummy, and your dog will love them.

Every year, I grab a pumpkin with big plans. I really want to do something fun with it. I love buying pumpkins from local farms, especially ones that let dogs visit. This is new where I live, and it’s one of my favorite fall activities. Plus, bringing home a pumpkin is festive and great for a cute dog pic.

Why Pumpkin?

Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs. It’s low in calories, gentle on sensitive stomachs, and naturally sweet, making dehydrated pumpkin dog chews an irresistible option. Dehydrating pumpkin preserves its nutrients and gives it a chewy texture dogs love. Whether you have a picky pup or just want to spoil them with something wholesome, this recipe is a win-win.

Ingredients

• 1 medium pumpkin (sugar pumpkins work best for flavor and size)
• Optional: a pinch of cinnamon (safe for dogs, no sugar added)

Note: Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, it often contains sugar, spices, or additives that aren’t dog friendly. Stick to pure, fresh pumpkin.

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon or scoop
• Dehydrator (or an oven if you don’t have one)
• Parchment paper (for oven method)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pumpkin
   • Wash the pumpkin thoroughly to remove any dirt.
   • Carefully cut it in half with a sharp knife and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. (Pro tip: Save the seeds to roast for yourself or your pup!)
   • Peel the skin off with a knife or vegetable peeler, then slice the flesh into thin strips or chunks, about ¼ inch thick for even drying.

1. Season (Optional)
2. Dehydrate the Pumpkin
   • Using a Dehydrator: Arrange the pumpkin slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Set the temperature to 135°F (57°C) and let it run for 8-12 hours, depending on thickness. Check periodically, the dehydrated pumpkin dog chews should be dry but slightly flexible.

1. Using an Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the pumpkin slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 6-8 hours, flipping halfway through, until you’ve got perfect dehydrated pumpkin dog chews. Keep the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.

1. Cool and Test
   • Let the dehydrated pumpkin dog chews cool completely before giving them to your dog. They should be firm but not brittle. If they’re still moist, dehydrate them a bit longer.
2. Store
   • Store your dehydrated pumpkin dog chews in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They’ll last up to 1-2 months, or longer in the fridge. For 2025’s eco-conscious vibes, use a reusable glass jar instead of plastic.

Tips for Success

• Smaller dogs might prefer thinner, softer chews, while larger breeds can handle thicker pieces.
• Always supervise your dog with new treats to ensure they chew safely.
• Got extra pumpkin? Puree it and freeze it in ice cube trays for a quick snack later.

Why Make These in 2025?

This year, pet wellness is all about simplicity and sustainability. Dehydrated pumpkin dog chews align perfectly with that trend, no artificial preservatives, no shipping emissions from store-bought treats, just pure pumpkin goodness. Your dog gets a healthy snack, and you get the satisfaction of DIY mastery.

Give this recipe a try and watch your pup’s tail wag with delight. Have a favorite twist on dehydrated pumpkin dog chews? Share your thoughts in the comments below, I’d love to hear how it goes.

Happy treating.