ByHealthy pumpkin blueberry dog treats are crunchy, twice-baked sticks made with plain pumpkin, oat flour, an egg, and fresh blueberries. They take about 20 minutes to prep and about 65 minutes to bake in two rounds. The #1 safety rule is to use 100% plain pumpkin, never pumpkin pie filling.
These are dog biscotti, and they are my favorite fall project. You bake one big log, slice it, then bake the slices again until they snap. The blueberries turn into little purple jewels. They look fancy but are so easy.
Recipe Snapshot
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: about 65 minutes (25 minutes for the log, 40 minutes for the slices)
- Total time: about 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: about 20 sticks
- Difficulty: Medium-easy
- Storage life: up to 2 weeks in the fridge, up to 3 months in the freezer
Key Takeaway: Mix plain pumpkin, an egg, and oat flour, fold in blueberries, and shape a log. Bake, slice, and bake again for crunch. Use plain pumpkin only and break the sticks into small pieces for small dogs.
Are Pumpkin Blueberry Treats Healthy for Dogs?
Yes. Pumpkin brings fiber and vitamins, and blueberries add antioxidants, all with no sugar added.
The American Kennel Club says pumpkin is rich in fiber and has vitamins A, E, and C, plus potassium and iron. The AKC also says canned pumpkin has more fiber and nutrients per bite than fresh, since fresh pumpkin holds more water.
Blueberries are a great match. The AKC’s blueberry guide says they are low in calories and provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It also notes research suggesting antioxidants may help reduce the effects of brain aging in dogs.
Oats tie it together. The AKC’s oatmeal guide quotes a vet who calls oats a great alternative carb for dogs that may be sensitive to wheat.
Healthy Pumpkin and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe
This is a twice-baked recipe. The second bake dries the sticks so they stay crunchy for days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain canned pumpkin puree (100% pumpkin)
- 1 large egg
- 2 ¾ cups oat flour (blend about 3 ¼ cups plain rolled oats)
- ½ cup fresh blueberries, washed, patted dry, and halved
- 2 tablespoons extra oat flour for shaping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk the pumpkin and egg in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add the oat flour one cup at a time.
- Stir, then knead with your hands until a stiff dough forms.
- Gently fold in the halved blueberries.
- Dust your hands with oat flour.
- Shape the dough into a log about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide.
- Flatten the top a little so it is about 1 inch tall.
- Bake the log for 25 minutes, until firm on top.
- Cool the log on the tray for 15 minutes.
- Turn the oven down to 300°F (150°C).
- Slice the log crosswise into ½-inch sticks with a serrated knife.
- Lay the sticks cut-side down on the tray.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Flip each stick over.
- Bake 20 more minutes, until dry and crisp.
- Turn off the oven and let the sticks cool inside.
Dog-Safe Ingredient Check
- No pumpkin pie filling. The AKC warns that canned pumpkin pie mix may contain xylitol. VCA Animal Hospitals says even small amounts of xylitol can cause low blood sugar, seizures, or liver failure.
- No pumpkin spice. These blends usually include nutmeg, which contains a toxin called myristicin, according to the AKC.
- Fresh or plain frozen blueberries. Skip dried or sweetened berries.
- Never swap in raisins or currants. The ASPCA says grapes and raisins can lead to kidney damage.
- Size matters. The AKC notes blueberries can be a choking risk for very small dogs, so halve them in the dough.
Pro Tip: Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. Pressing straight down squishes the log and pops the blueberries.
How Many Pumpkin Blueberry Sticks Can My Dog Have?
One stick a day is plenty for a medium dog. Small dogs should get a third or half of a stick.
VCA Animal Hospitals says the general rule is that 90% of your dog’s daily calories should come from complete and balanced food. The other 10% can come from treats and snacks.
For a simple chart, see how many treats a dog should have a day. Double-check any add-ins against my list of foods dogs cannot eat.
Vet Tip: Very hard treats aren’t right for every mouth. If your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, break the sticks into small bits or skip the second bake for a softer treat, and ask your vet what’s best.
Are These Good for Senior Dogs?
They can be, with a small tweak. The AKC notes antioxidants may help with the effects of brain aging, which makes blueberries a nice senior pick.
For older dogs with tender teeth, skip the second bake and serve them soft. Not sure if your dog counts as a senior? See how to tell how old a dog is at home. A dog health tracker can also help you spot changes in activity as your dog ages.
Substitutions and Variations
You can adjust these sticks for allergies, teeth, or what you have on hand.
Allergy Swaps
- Egg-free: Use 3 extra tablespoons of pumpkin instead of the egg. The log will be a bit softer, so handle it gently.
- Berry swap: Use chopped fresh strawberries instead of blueberries.
Grain-Free Option
Use 2 cups chickpea flour instead of oat flour. Add it slowly until the dough holds a log shape.
Soft Version
Skip the second bake. Slice the log after it cools and store the soft slices in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Scaling for Dog Size
- Small dogs: Shape a skinny 1 ½-inch-wide log and cut thin sticks.
- Medium dogs: 3-inch-wide log, like the recipe.
- Large dogs: Same log, cut 1-inch sticks, and give one.
More Pumpkin and Blueberry Ideas
Want other ways to use these flavors? Try my homemade blueberry dog treats, easy pumpkin dog biscuits for beginners, or pumpkin carrot dog cookies.
Looking for extra support beyond treats? Ask your vet about a dog supplement for meals.
How Do I Store Pumpkin Blueberry Dog Treats?
Store fully dried sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Freeze extras for up to 3 months.
Make sure they are cool before sealing, or they will soften. Throw out any that smell off or show spots. Short on time? Keep ready-made fresh dog treats on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can dogs eat pumpkin and blueberries together?
A: Yes. Plain pumpkin and plain blueberries are both safe for most dogs in small amounts.
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries?
A: Yes. Thaw, drain, and pat them dry, or the dough will turn purple and soggy.
Q: Why are my sticks soft in the middle?
A: They need more drying. Slice thinner, or add 10 minutes to the second bake.
Q: Is canned pumpkin better than fresh?
A: For baking, yes. The AKC says canned pumpkin has more fiber and nutrients per bite than fresh because fresh has more water.
Q: Are blueberries a choking risk?
A: The AKC says they can be for very small dogs. Halving them solves that.
Q: Can puppies have these?
A: Yes, in tiny soft pieces. Skip the second bake for puppy-friendly slices.
Final Thoughts
These healthy pumpkin blueberry dog treats are crunchy, colorful, and made with four plain foods. Use pure pumpkin, dry your berries, and give the sticks a slow second bake. Then enjoy the happy crunch. Want to watch your dog enjoy them while you’re out? A dog camera makes it easy.
For more ideas like this, see my healthy homemade treat collection.
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