You know that look your dog gives you when the summer heat hits? The one where they’re panting like a broken accordion but still eyeing your ice cream with pure longing? That’s exactly how my golden retriever Benny convinced me to create these pumpkin frozen dog chews. What started as a desperate attempt to cool him down during a heatwave turned into our favorite year-round treat – and let me tell you, watching him happily crunch away never gets old.
After three summers of testing recipes (and cleaning pumpkin splatters off my kitchen walls), I’ve perfected these frosty bites that do double duty. The pumpkin works magic on sensitive stomachs – a lifesaver after Benny’s infamous “trcan” incident involving my birthday cake. As someone who’s obsessed with pet nutrition, I love that these chews pack fiber for digestion and cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory benefits without any sketchy additives.
What makes these frozen treats special isn’t just how easy they are to whip up. It’s seeing Benny’s tail go helicopter-mode when he hears the freezer door open. Whether your pup’s teething, overheating, or just deserves a fun snack, these chews turn snack time into the highlight of their day. And honestly? I’ve caught myself licking the spoon – don’t tell Benny!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews
Let’s break down the simple ingredients that make these frozen chews a pantry superhero. Trust me – I learned the hard way after grabbing the wrong can once (more on that disaster later!). You’ll need:
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened) – This is the MVP for digestion support. Make sure it’s not pumpkin pie filling, which contains dangerous spices and sweeteners. I nearly ruined a batch during Benny’s first birthday celebration – lesson learned!
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional) – Great for probiotics, but skip it if your pup’s lactose-sensitive. I use goat’s milk yogurt since it’s easier on Benny’s tummy.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Just a pinch adds anti-inflammatory benefits. Never use nutmeg – it’s toxic to dogs!
Pro tip: That pumpkin puree can? Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays for future batches. Your future self (and your panting pup) will thank you during heatwaves!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews
Let’s turn that pumpkin puree into frosty magic! I’ve made these chews so often I could do it in my sleep, but here’s the foolproof method that’s survived Benny’s most enthusiastic taste-testing sessions:
- Mix it like you mean it – Dump the pumpkin, yogurt (if using), and cinnamon into a bowl. Stir until it looks like orange frosting. Pro tip: If your mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water. Benny once knocked over a whole batch because I got distracted – lesson learned about workspace security!
- Mold madness – Spoon the mixture into silicone molds. I use ones shaped like bones because Benny thinks they’re extra fancy, but any shape works. Fill them 3/4 full – they expand slightly when frozen. Ever tried licking the spoon? Tastes like fall, but resist the urge to snack!
- Freeze your patience – Pop the molds in the freezer for 4-6 hours. This is when Benny starts his “supervision” routine, camping in front of the freezer like a furry sentry. Overnight works too if you forget about them (no judgment here).
- Pop and store – Twist those molds to release the chews. If they stick, run the bottom under warm water for 3 seconds. Toss them in a freezer bag or container – they’ll keep for 2 months if your dog doesn’t find them first!
Watch your pup closely during the first few chews. Benny once tried to swallow one whole like a heathen – now we do “small licks only” until it softens a bit.
Choosing the Right Mold for Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews
Silicone molds are worth their weight in dog treats, trust me. I learned this after wrestling with a plastic ice cube tray that left half my batch stuck like cement. Silicone’s flexibility makes removal a breeze, and they’re usually made with non-toxic materials – crucial since dogs chew these aggressively.
Look for molds with simple shapes without tiny details. Those adorable paw-print indents? Cute, but a nightmare to clean after pumpkin dries in the crevices. If you’re in a pinch, spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and break it into chunks once frozen. Benny actually prefers the irregular pieces – he thinks they’re “special finds” from his personal Arctic expedition.
Essential Equipment You’ll Need
You probably already have these kitchen staples, but let’s make sure your treat-making goes smoother than a pup sliding on hardwood floors:
- Silicone molds – These flexible lifesavers pop treats out cleanly. I’ve got a rainbow collection Benny’s slowly stolen to use as chew toys!
- A trusty mixing bowl – Any size works, but wider ones prevent pumpkin splatter on your cabinets (ask me how I know).
- Measuring cups – Precision matters hyper puppies from hyper puppies from too much cinnamon!
Why Your Dog Will Love These Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews
Ever wonder what makes your pup go bonkers for these frosty bites? Here’s the magic:
Ice-cold relief: That first crunchy lick cools their whole mouth – perfect after Benny’s backyard squirrel-chasing marathons. I’ve seen him plop down panting in the shade, then perk up instantly when I bring out a chew.
Gentle on teeth: The slightly soft texture soothes sore gums without being too hard. When my neighbor’s teething puppy tried them, she stopped chewing my slippers (temporarily, at least).
Tummy TLC: The pumpkin works like a charm for digestion. After Benny “helped” himself to a stolen loaf of bread last Thanksgiving, these chews became our post-mistake peace offering.
Watching Benny’s reaction never gets old. His “I’ve won the dog lottery” dance – ears flopping, tail thumping the floor – is why I keep batches stocked year-round. Pro tip: Have your phone ready for slow-mo videos of that first excited chomp!
Making Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews Your Pup’s Own
Every dog’s got unique tastes – Benny turned up his nose at mint until I cracked the code. Here’s how to customize these chews without compromising safety:
Dairy-free delight: Swap yogurt with coconut milk (the canned, full-fat kind) for pups with sensitive stomachs. My friend’s bulldog Morty licks his bowl clean with this version – and trust me, that’s a miracle with his picky palate!
Peanut butter power: Stir in a tablespoon of xylitol-free peanut butter for extra protein. I use a brand with just peanuts and salt – Benny does his “zoomies” when he smells it mixing. Triple-check labels! That sugar-free PB almost landed us at the vet last Fourth of July.
Fruit fusion: Mix in mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup max) for variety. Avoid grapes/raisins – they’re toxic. When I added blueberry puree once, Benny looked like he’d committed a berry massacre all over my white rug. Cute, but never again!
Spice smarts: Skip the cinnamon if your dog’s wary of new flavors. A pinch of turmeric (¼ tsp per batch) adds anti-inflammatory benefits without changing the taste. Learned this trick after Benny side-eyed his chew like it owed him money!
Remember: Always google ingredients before adding. That “dog-safe” bone broth powder I tried? Let’s just say Benny’s resulting gas could’ve qualified as a biological weapon. Start simple, then experiment once you know your pup’s preferences!
Keeping Those Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews Fresh (And Out of Paws’ Reach!)
Let’s be real – your pup would probably storm the freezer given half a chance. I learned this after Benny perfected his “accidental” door-opening technique! Store chews in an airtight container – glass jars work great, but I use old yogurt tubs so Benny can’t hear me sneak one out. They’ll keep 2 months frozen, though ours never last a week!
Pro tip: Let chews sit 2-3 minutes before serving. Frozen-solid ones can be too hard for tiny teeth – learned this when my sister’s chihuahua gave me the ultimate side-eye. If you spot frost crystals, toss ‘em. They’re still safe, but Benny acts like I’m serving freezer-burned betrayal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pumpkin frozen dog chews safe for puppies?
Absolutely – these became our go-to when Benny’s cousin (a rambunctious lab puppy) visited last summer. Just wait until they’re 12+ weeks old and have adult teeth coming in. I break chews into pea-sized pieces for tiny mouths. Always supervise – puppies think everything’s a chew toy, including the silicone molds!
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
You bet! Roast sugar pumpkin cubes until fork-tender, then blend smooth. My first attempt looked like orange soup – too watery! Now I strain puree through cheesecloth for the perfect thick consistency. Pro tip: Freeze extra puree in 1-cup portions for future batches.
How many chews can I give my dog daily?
Moderation’s key – even Benny gets max 2 small chews per day. For big dogs (50+ lbs), 3-4 are fine. Our vet suggested using them as training rewards instead of free-feeding. Watch their stool though – too much pumpkin fiber leads to…let’s call it “express delivery service”!
What’s Really in Those Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews?
Let’s cut through the mystery – here’s exactly what your pup’s getting in every frosty bite. I put these numbers under my vet’s microscope after Benny started doing his “I’ll take twelve” begging routine:
| Nutrient | Per Chew |
|---|---|
| Calories | 5 |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
These numbers dance a little based on your add-ins – a dollop of peanut butter might bump calories slightly. Our vet laughed when I brought the spreadsheet, but confirmed these chews are perfect for Benny’s between-meal crunch cravings. Pro tip: Active dogs can handle extra, while couch potatoes might need smaller portions. Always check with your vet – mine once schooled me on fiber ratios for an hour. Worth it to see Benny’s happy tail wags!
Note: Values are estimates. Your dog’s actual intake may vary. When in doubt, consult your vet – unlike Benny, they actually went to medical school!
Share Your Dog’s Reaction!
Nothing beats seeing that first skeptical sniff turn into full-blown tail wags! Benny does his “happy tap dance” whenever these chews appear – complete with dropped crumbs and a very proud pumpkin-stained muzzle. I’d love to see your pup’s best “OMG this is amazing” face! Snap a pic of their frosty nose art or that guilty “I ate it too fast” look and drop it below. Let’s make a gallery of our dogs’ paw-some reactions – no professional photos needed, just pure joy (and maybe some orange smears on your camera lens).
Print
3-Ingredient Pumpkin Frozen Dog Chews Beat Summer Heat
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 chews 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthy frozen treat for dogs made with simple ingredients. Helps with digestion and teething while keeping your pet cool.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Mix pumpkin puree, yogurt, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth.
- Spoon mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for 4-6 hours or until solid.
- Pop treats out of molds and store in a sealed container in the freezer.
Notes
- Use silicone molds for easy removal
- Supervise your dog during chewing
- Adjust treat size based on your dog’s weight
- Store frozen for up to 2 months
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: No Bake, Frozen
- Cuisine: Pet Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chew
- Calories: 5
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg