Description
These homemade pumpkin and flaxseed dental sticks are a nutritious and natural way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh. Packed with fiber, omega-3s, and dog-friendly ingredients, they’re easy to make and perfect for pups with food sensitivities or picky tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 egg
- 2–3 tablespoons water (as needed for dough consistency)
Optional Ingredients
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional for breath-freshening)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy clean-up.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the unsweetened pumpkin puree, ground flaxseed, finely chopped fresh parsley (if using), and egg. Stir these together until fully blended.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the whole wheat or oat flour into the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a stiff dough forms.
- Adjust dough consistency: If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together and is workable.
- Shape the treats: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut into stick shapes or use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to create fun dental stick shapes.
- Bake the sticks: Arrange the cut sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the sticks are firm and golden brown.
- Cool and store: Remove from the oven and allow the sticks to cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.
Notes
- Always consult your vet before introducing new treats to your dog’s diet.
- Avoid using pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices harmful to dogs.
- These treats are supplements to your dog’s diet and should not replace balanced meals.
