With Halloween just around the corner, most of us get swept up in the frenzy of buying treats and sweets. Almost all of us have a cheeky treat we like to nibble on, and Halloween is no different, whether that’s filching a mini chocolate bar from the stash or enforcing the “Halloween Treat Tax” that so many parents tell their kids about!
Our pets are no different, and the smell of jellies, chocolate, lollipops and other goodies may prove too tempting for them. However, just because they cannot have human treats, doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy a spooky snack or two!
These treats can also work as a good distraction from the noisy fireworks, helping to settle your dog. They’re also a fun activity to do ahead of the Halloween season so dig out the baking equipment, prep the baking trays and let’s get cooking!
No-Bake Pumpkin Coconut Bites!
This recipe is so easy and makes about 32 bites although you can adjust the sizes for your dog’s breed. It’s also a great way to use up pumpkin guts from your lantern carving!
You’ll need:
– Pureed/mashed pumpkin 250g
– 100g peanut butter (you can add more if your mix looks dry. Make sure the peanut butter has no birch sugar or Xylitol listed in the ingredients)
– 250g rolled oats
– 2 tbsp coconut oil + 2 tbsp honey/maple syrup
– 100g dessicated coconut
Method:
– Line a baking tray with parchment.
– Mix all ingredients together (except the coconut) You can use a food processor if you want a smoother dough.
– Use the coconut oil to lubricate your hands and twist sections of dough off according to your size preferences.
– Roll into balls and roll in the dessicated coconut.
You can serve them as is or you can store them in the fridge to harden up slightly for a more interesting treat!
They keep for about a week in a parchment-lined tupperware.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Now your pup can enjoy a delicious “latte” with you. For maximum inFURencer points, serve in a fancy cup with a pumpkin bite on the side!
You’ll need:
– Pureed/mashed pumpkin
– Plain unsweetened yoghurt
– Water
Method:
Simply combine equal parts pumpkin and yoghurt in a blender or bowl. Add a little water so it is easier to drink. You can then blend/whisk it together.
If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can whip some extra yoghurt into “cream” to top it off! (This treat should be given in moderation as too much dairy can cause gassy tummies!)
Strawberry Ghosts
A very cute and easy recipe, these devilishly tasty ghosts not only look the part, but are a great way to get some extra fruit into your dog!
You’ll Need:
– Strawberries
– 100g plain unsweetened yoghurt.
– Banana
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– Carob chips (Do NOT substitute regular chocolate chips as chocolate is toxic for dogs!)
Method:
– Cut the stem off the strawberries so they can sit flat.
– Carefully core them, setting aside the insides.
– Mash part of the banana with the strawberry cores and peanut butter. You can add more banana/peanut butter depending on your desired consistency.
– Stuff the strawberries with the tasty mixture, being sure you don’t overstuff them. 1/2-1 teaspoon per strawberry is ideal.
– Mix the yoghurt until it is smooth, then carefully dip each strawberry into it, setting it cut side down onto a lined baking tray.
– Freeze for 1 hour.
– Take them out and dip them in the yoghurt mix again, adding two carob chips for eyes.
– Freeze for an additional hour and voilà!
Before giving these to your dog, make sure you leave them out at room temperature to soften slightly. These ghoulish goodies last in the freezer for up to a week in an airtight container!
These are just some of the amazing treats that you can make for your furry friend, that are healthy and safe for them to have. Be extra vigilant with your dogs around sweets and remember to NEVER give them human treats.
We’d love to see your wonderful creations for your pups during this Spooktacular time of year!
– By Peigí Conneff
