The season is changing! If you’re anything like me, I only enjoy summer when I’m sitting on a beach without a care in the world. Autumn, though—that’s my soul. It’s a season of comfort. There’s something magical about it: the crunch of leaves underfoot, the scent of cinnamon in the air, and that golden glow on crisp afternoons.
I’m happiest in a sweater and fluffy socks, with the leaves turning outside and something delicious baking in the oven. And if I’m in the kitchen making cozy fall treats for myself, you’d better believe the dogs are getting their share too.
Our pups deserve a taste of the season just as much as we do. These easy homemade dog treats are safe, healthy, and simple to whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re baking a crunchy biscuit, a chewy apple delight, or a soft cinnamon bite, these DIY dog treats will have tails wagging all season long.
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?
Healthier Dog Treats: You know exactly what’s going into your pup’s snacks—no mystery fillers or artificial ingredients.
Bonding With Your Pup: Baking becomes a chance to slow down, breathe in the season, and make something with love.
Customizable Recipes: Adjust the shapes, sizes, and textures to match what your dog enjoys most.
Budget-Friendly Dog Snacks: Homemade treats are often far cheaper than boutique options.
And here’s the truth: they don’t have to look perfect. Your dog doesn’t care if the treat is a little lopsided—what matters is that it came from you. I’m not a professional baker, just someone who loves having fun in the kitchen and knowing exactly what goes into the treats I give the dogs.
Dog-Safe Ingredients for Fall Dog Treats + My Favorite Baking Tools
Here are the true stars of autumn—and yes, each one is safe for dogs in moderation. I’ve added italicized links for my personal recommendations, so you can bake these treats just the way I do.
- Apples for dogs: Peeled, cored, and seeds removed. Crunchy and vitamin-packed, with Granny Smith often considered best for dogs since they’re lower in sugar and higher in certain nutrients than red varieties.
- Cinnamon: Safe in small amounts and adds cozy warmth. Always avoid nutmeg, which is toxic to dogs. I like using ground cinnamon.
- Eggs: Fresh farm eggs when possible, or organic grocery store eggs.
- Best flour for dog treats: You can use whole wheat or oat flour; avoid bleached, enriched, or nut flours.
- Honey: Optional, but adds a touch of natural sweetness. Local or raw honey is best.
- Oats: Gentle on sensitive stomachs and a great base for treats. Rolled oats are my go-to.
- Dog Safe Peanut Butter: Always xylitol-free! The dogs go crazy for Buddy Butter Peanut Butter.
- Pumpkin Puree: I love using organic unsweetened pumpkin puree—safe for pups and so easy to keep on hand.
- Unsweetened Applesauce: A great natural sweetener and binder.
- Baking Molds: These reusable silicone baking molds keep things non-stick and eco-friendly.
- Baking Trays: I recommend using aluminum baking sheets lined with silicone baking mats. Aluminum conducts heat evenly, which helps the treats bake consistently, while silicone mats keep them from sticking (and save on parchment paper waste).
- Cookie Cutters: Seasonal shapes make these extra fun! I use these autumn-themed and dog-themed cookie cutters.
- Cooling Rack: A sturdy cooling rack helps the treats cool evenly and stay crisp.
- Flour Sifter: I use a handheld flour sifter to break up clumps and make mixing smoother.
- Food Processor: Perfect for grinding oats into flour and blending doughs.
- Mixing Bowls: A mixing bowl set is handy for keeping wet and dry ingredients separate.
- Rolling Pin: A classic wooden rolling pin makes shaping the dough simple and smooth.
- Silicone Rolling Mat: I use a silicone dough rolling mat to keep the counter clean and the dough from sticking.
- Spatula Set: A flexible silicone spatula set makes folding, scraping, and mixing so much easier.
- Stand Mixer: My trusty KitchenAid Stand Mixer with the paddle attachment makes mixing a breeze.
- Storage: Once baked, I store treats in these airtight glass containers to keep them fresh.
Disclaimer: The links above are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase through them. I only recommend products I personally use and love here at Daffodil Cottage.
Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling)
- ½ cup xylitol-free peanut butter
- 2 eggs
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour if sensitive)
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl — or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment
- Spatula
- Flour sifter
- Silicone rolling mat
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters or silicone molds
- Baking tray
- Silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 18–40 minutes (depending on size)
Total Time: 30–50 minutes
Yield: About 30 medium-sized treats (more if using small cutters or molds)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl—or in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment—combine the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs. If using a stand mixer, start on low speed to avoid splashing, then increase to medium speed until the mixture is fully blended and smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
- Add the flour: Gradually add the flour—sifted if you have a flour sifter—mixing it in with a spatula or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer until incorporated. Keep the mixer on low speed and mix until a soft dough forms. The texture should be similar to cookie dough—slightly sticky, but easy to roll out. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra flour a tablespoon at a time.
- Shape the dough: On a lightly floured silicone rolling mat, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut into shapes with your favorite cookie cutters (leaf, pumpkin, bone, or paw work beautifully). Alternatively, press portions of dough into silicone molds for uniform, fun shapes.
- Bake: Place the tray on the center oven rack. Bake until golden and firm: Adjust times slightly depending on your oven and how crunchy you’d like the biscuits.
Tiny treats: 18–22 minutes
Small treats: 25–28 minutes
Medium treats: 30–35 minutes
Large treats: 35–40 minutes
- Cool completely: Transfer the treats to a cooling rack and allow them to cool fully before serving to your pup. This helps them set and keeps their texture just right.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
Apple & Oat Dog Treats Recipe
Ingredients & Equipment:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or finely grated apple, peeled & cored)
- 1 egg
Recommended Equipment:
- Food processor or blender
- Medium mixing bowl — or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment
- Spatulas
- Silicone Rolling Mat
- Cookie cutters or silicone molds
- Baking Tray
- Silicone Baking Mat
- Cooling Rack
- Airtight Container
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 20–35 minutes
Total Time: 30–45 minutes
Yield: About 25 medium-sized treats (more if using small cutters or molds)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the oats: Place rolled oats in a food processor or blender. Pulse until they reach a flour-like consistency. A few small pieces are fine—it adds texture.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce and egg until smooth. If you’re using a stand mixer, fit it with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add the ground oats to the applesauce mixture. You can stir by hand using a spatula, folding the flour in until combined, or use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on low speed, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula. Continue mixing for about 1–2 minutes, or until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more oat flour; if too dry, add a teaspoon of applesauce.
- Shape the treats: For balls, scoop out about a teaspoon of dough, roll between your palms, and place on the tray. For rounds, flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon. For fun shapes, press the dough into silicone molds or cut with cookie cutters after rolling out on a lightly floured silicone mat.
- Bake: Place the tray on the center rack. Bake 20–25 minutes for softer chews, or 30–35 minutes for a crunchier texture. Smaller shapes may finish sooner—check at the 18-minute mark.
- Cool completely: Transfer the treats to a cooling rack so they crisp up and cool evenly.
Storage: Keep in an airtight glass container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Cinnamon & Honey Dog Treats Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oat flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
Equipment:
- Small mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Flour sifter — optional
- Spatula
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment — for easier mixing
- Silicone rolling mat
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters or silicone molds
- Baking trays lined with silicone mats
- Cooling rack
- Airtight glass containers
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 18–35 minutes (depending on size)
Total Time: 30–45 minutes
Yield: About 30 small to medium treats (more if using small cutters or molds)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine the oat flour and cinnamon. If you have a flour sifter, sift the flour before adding the cinnamon for a smoother texture.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the honey, applesauce, and egg until smooth. If using a stand mixer, fit it with the paddle attachment and mix on low to medium speed for about 1–2 minutes.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. You can stir by hand with a spatula, folding until combined, or use a stand mixer on low speed, pausing to scrape down the sides with a spatula. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too wet, add a sprinkle of oat flour; if too dry, add a teaspoon of applesauce.
- Shape the dough: Roll out on a lightly floured silicone mat to about ¼ inch thickness and cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Or press portions into silicone molds for uniform treats.
- Bake: Place the tray on the center oven rack. Bake until lightly golden and firm:
Tiny treats: 18–20 minutes
Small treats: 22–25 minutes
Medium treats: 25–28 minutes
Large treats: 30–35 minutes
- Adjust slightly based on your oven and how crunchy you’d like the bites.
- Cool completely: Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool fully before serving.
Storage: Keep in an airtight glass container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Cozy Ways to Share Homemade Dog Treats
- Wrap each batch in parchment paper and tie with rustic twine for the sweetest homemade gift.
- Bake ahead and bring them along for a training session or autumn stroll—like a little picnic just for your pup.
- Store the treats in a glass jar with a handwritten label so they double as cozy fall kitchen décor.
- Bundle them into a basket with apples, cinnamon sticks, and a sprig of rosemary for a thoughtful seasonal gift to fellow dog lovers.
- Light a fall-scented candle, put on soft music, and let your pup curl up nearby while you bake together.
Dog Treat Safety Tips Every Owner Should Know
Avoid toxic ingredients: Never use nutmeg, raisins, chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, or anything containing xylitol.
Introduce new foods slowly: Start with a small amount and watch for any signs of upset stomach or allergies.
Mind portion size: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Adjust texture for your pup: Bake for less time if you want softer treats (ideal for senior dogs or those with dental issues).
Stick to plain ingredients: Use unsweetened, unflavored pumpkin, applesauce, and peanut butter—no added sugar, salt, or spices.
Check labels carefully: Even “natural” products can hide artificial sweeteners or excess sugar.
Consult your vet: If your pup has pancreatitis, allergies, or other health concerns, always check before trying new recipes.
Store properly: Homemade treats don’t have preservatives. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for longer storage to prevent mold.
Closing Thoughts
Autumn is about slowing down and savoring the season, and there’s no better way than baking something wholesome for the ones who bring us joy every day. These homemade fall dog treats bring the warmth of the season right into your pup’s bowl—simple, safe, and packed with tail-wagging flavor.
So grab your apron, warm up the oven, and let your kitchen smell like autumn. Your pup will thank you with every happy crunch.
