Fall season is a time of cooler weather, outdoor activities, harvest festivals and pumpkins! As a October baby, it has always been my favorite time of year. Although I grew up in Arizona and raised my children in Southern California, I never experienced seasons unless we traveled. Now living in Washington State,  I am now truly enjoying all of the colors and cooler weather the Pacific Northwest has to bring.

One of my fondest memories as a child was carving pumpkins with my brother and sister. We would visit the pumpkin patches to choose the perfect one just for carving. The smell of a jack-o'lanterns brings me back so many fond memories. This year for my birthday treat, I decided to take Koda on a photo op through the pumpkin patch. Now that my children are older, I can still drag my dog along with me and make family memories together.

Are pumpkins good for dogs?

What do you do with leftover pumpkins? Why not make pumpkin pie dog treats! Pumpkins can be a healthy treat for dogs in moderation. Pumpkins are rich in vitamins A, C and E as well as minerals like potassium and iron. In addition, pumpkins are low in calories and can be a great addition for weight management. Beneficial for their digestion due to the fiber content, they can aid in regulating digestion for dogs. However,  you do need to prepare them properly by removing the seeds and serving only the cooked flesh.

What about cinnamon for dogs?

Cinnamon and spice are flavors I love for holiday treats and fall season. Giving me a sense of warmth and comfort, I can't wait until I have my first pumpkin spice latte.  Can you give your dogs cinnamon? Yes! Although you should always consult your vet and moderation is key, a pinch of cinnamon is non toxic. However, some dogs maybe sensitive or allergic. In large amounts it can cause digestive issues or irritation.

Why should you make pumpkin puree for dogs?

Like with all of my homemade dog food, I try to cook with all natural ingredients. Many pumpkin treat recipes use canned pumpkin. Although you can find canned pumpkin without additives such as sugars, spices or preservatives, I prefer cook real pumpkins down so I know exactly what is going into my dog. The benefit of cooking pumpkins is you can freeze them in individual cubes using a silicon mat or ice cube maker to add to other dog treats in the future.

How do you make homemade pumpkin puree for dogs?

There are two different methods on making homemade pumpkin puree. You can cook in the oven or use your Instant Pot.

Step 1: Cut the pumpkin in 1/2  or place whole in the Instant Pot if the pumpkin is small enough.

Step 2: You can scoop out the seeds or remove them after roasting

Step 3; Oven Method:  bake for 40-60 min at 400 degrees. Instant Pot Method: high pressure for 15 min and naturally release for at least 5-10 min.

Step 4:  Let cool scoop out the insides leaving the seeds and flesh. Place in the food processor. Puree  until smooth

Now for the treats!

These individual pie servings are not only adorable but also freezable! they are the perfect serving size for an after dinner snack on Thanksgiving when everyone is enjoying their desserts. My Sugar and Spice dog collar collection is also inspired by the flavors of the Fall. So bake some pies and treat your pet! Fall season is a time for getting comfy and cozy together with your dog.

---

Wanna chat Live about dogs?

Come join Canine Crazies and my pack of dog friendly friends on Facebook at Canine Crazies in the Den. Let's bond, connect, laugh and share the love of our four legged friends.