By David | Updated January 2025
If your furry friend gives you the same bored look every time you serve up that dry kibble—it’s time for a flavor upgrade. And what better way to spice things up than with the dog-friendly superfood: pumpkin!
🎃 Pumpkin isn’t just tasty—it’s loaded with fiber, vitamins A & C, and gut-soothing benefits that support digestion, skin health, and weight management. These easy, homemade dog food recipes prove pumpkin is more than just a fall favorite—it’s a year-round canine game changer.
✅ Why Pumpkin is a Must-Have in Your Dog’s Diet
- High in fiber – supports digestive health and stool regularity
- Rich in vitamin A – promotes eye and skin health
- Contains natural moisture – great for hydration
- Low in calories – ideal for overweight or senior dogs
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs – helps with both diarrhea and constipation
⚠️ Vet Note: Always use plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling!) and consult your vet before changing your dog’s diet.
🍽️ 8 Pumpkin Dog Food Recipes Your Pup Will Love
Each recipe below is made with simple, whole-food ingredients, no fillers, no preservatives—just pure tail-wagging goodness.
1. 🍗 Chicken & Pumpkin Stew
Best for: Picky eaters or post-upset tummies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (skinless, boneless)
- ½ cup plain pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup steamed green beans, chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
Simmer all ingredients in a pot for 10 minutes. Cool before serving.
🦴 Nutritional Boost: Lean protein + fiber = energy and gut support.
2. 🦃 Turkey, Pumpkin & Green Bean Mash
Best for: Dogs on low-fat diets
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked ground turkey
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup chopped green beans
Instructions:
Mash everything together in a bowl. Serve alone or mixed with dry food.
🦴 Why It Works: Turkey is easy to digest and ideal for dogs with allergies.
3. 🥩 Beef & Pumpkin Casserole
Best for: Active dogs needing extra protein
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked ground beef (lean)
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup cooked quinoa
Instructions:
Layer into a baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Cool and serve.
🦴 Nutritional Punch: High in protein and antioxidants.
4. 🍠 Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Medley
Best for: Dogs needing fiber and joint support
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup peas
Instructions:
Mix and serve warm or cold.
🦴 Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of turmeric for inflammation-fighting power.
5. 🐟 Salmon & Pumpkin Patties
Best for: Dogs with dry skin or allergies
Ingredients:
- 1 can salmon (boneless, packed in water)
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup oats
Instructions:
Mix, shape into patties, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Freeze extras!
🦴 Health Benefits: Omega-3s = shiny coat + reduced itching.
6. 🐑 Lamb, Pumpkin & Carrot Mix
Best for: Sensitive stomachs or grain-free diets
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked lamb
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- Pinch of dried parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Combine and serve warm. Make in batches and refrigerate.
🦴 Why Lamb? It’s a novel protein great for dogs with food sensitivities.
7. 🧊 Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Frozen Treats
Best for: Hot days or teething puppies
Ingredients:
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup unsweetened peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
Instructions:
Spoon into silicone molds and freeze for 3+ hours.
🦴 Treat Tip: Use bone or paw-shaped molds for Instagram-worthy snacks!
8. 🫐 Pumpkin, Oats & Blueberry Bites
Best for: Training rewards or afternoon treats
Ingredients:
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup oats
- ¼ cup blueberries
- 1 egg
Instructions:
Mix, roll into balls, and bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.
🦴 Training Hack: These are perfect bite-sized rewards—healthy and drool-worthy!
📦 How to Store Homemade Dog Food
- Refrigerator: 3–5 days in airtight containers
- Freezer: Up to 3 months—store in portioned bags or silicone molds
- Serving Tip: Thaw frozen meals overnight or microwave for a few seconds
🐕🦺 Expert Safety Tips
✔ Avoid seasonings, salt, onions, garlic, or sugar
✔ Use plain, unsweetened pumpkin
✔ Check for food allergies (especially with proteins)
✔ Monitor your dog’s digestion with new foods
✔ Always portion treats based on your dog’s size and weight
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can puppies eat pumpkin?
Yes! Pumpkin is gentle on puppy tummies. Start with small portions.
Q2: Can I mix these recipes with kibble?
Absolutely. These meals make great toppers for added moisture and nutrition.
Q3: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes—just make sure it’s cooked and pureed with no skin or seeds.
Q4: How much pumpkin can I give my dog daily?
Start with 1–4 tablespoons per day, depending on your dog’s size and needs.
📌 Pin & Save for Later!
📥 Want to print all 8 pumpkin dog food recipes?
[👉 Download the PDF Recipe Bundle – It’s Free!]
📸 Don’t forget to snap a photo of your dog enjoying their meal! Tag us @PumpkinPupEats on Instagram!
💬 Final Woofs
Making dog food at home doesn’t have to be complicated—and your pup will thank you (with tail wags and those big, grateful eyes). These 8 easy pumpkin-based recipes are packed with health benefits and are sure to earn you the Best Dog Parent Ever award.
So go ahead—ditch the dull kibble and give your pup the real food they deserve. 🧡