Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles: A Festive Treat for Your Fall-Loving Pup

If you’re searching for a tasty, wholesome, and easy-to-make snack your dog will adore this season, Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles are the perfect fall treat. Packed with natural sweetness, warm autumn flavor, and dog-friendly nutrients, these festive bites are not only delicious but also simple enough for any home baker to make. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know — what they are, why they’re healthy, how to make them step-by-step, and tips to customize them for your own pup.

Let’s dive into the cozy world of fall dog treats, shall we?

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What Are Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles?

Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles are small, crunchy or chewy dog treats made with fresh pumpkin puree, apples, and a handful of wholesome, natural ingredients. These bite-sized snacks bring together two of the season’s most iconic flavors while providing fiber, vitamins, and gentle digestion support for dogs.

They’re great for all breeds, easy to store, and ideal for training rewards or everyday snacking.

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Why Are Pumpkin and Apple Good for Dogs?

Pumpkin and apple are widely recommended by veterinarians and pet nutritionists because they provide a great nutritional boost — naturally and safely.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

• Rich in soluble fiber (great for digestive regularity)

• Contains vitamins A, C, and E

• Helps soothe upset stomachs

• Low in calories, making it ideal for weight management

• Natural antioxidants that support immune health

Health Benefits of Apples for Dogs

• High in vitamins A and C

• Contains quercetin, a natural anti-inflammatory antioxidant

• Crunchy texture promotes dental cleanliness

• Low-fat and naturally sweet

Important: Dogs should not eat apple seeds or cores — they contain trace amounts of cyanogenic compounds unsafe for pups. Always remove the core!

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles

You don’t need any fancy tools or baking skills. Everything on this list is easy to find and dog-safe.

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How to Make Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles (Step-by-Step Guide)

Let’s walk through the entire process in a simple, beginner-friendly way.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your treats bake evenly and develop a perfect texture.

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

1. Peel and core one medium apple.

2. Finely grate it or chop it into tiny bits.

3. Measure 1 cup of pumpkin purée.

4. Gather 2 cups of oat flour (you can easily make it by blending rolled oats).

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:

• Combine pumpkin purée

• Add the grated apple

• Add one egg

• Mix until smooth and slightly thick

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

To your wet mix, add:

• Oat flour

• A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Stir until the dough forms. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle extra oat flour until you get a workable texture.

Step 5: Shape the Nibbles

You have a few fun options:

Option A: Hand-Rolled Nibbles

• Roll small balls roughly the size of marbles.

• Gently flatten them with your thumb.

Option B: Cookie Cutter Shapes

Using fall-themed cutters (pumpkins, apples, leaves):

• Roll dough to ¼ inch thick.

• Cut out shapes and transfer to a baking sheet.

Option C: Training Treat Cubes

• Flatten dough into a rectangle.

• Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice tiny bite-sized squares.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18–25 minutes, depending on the nibble size.

• For chewier treats, bake closer to 18 minutes.

• For crunchier treats, bake longer until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the treats cool completely before serving. Dogs love warm treats, but hot apple bits can burn their mouth — be patient!

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How Should You Store Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles?

Because these treats are made with fresh fruit and no preservatives, proper storage is key.

For Soft/Chewy Nibbles

• Keep in the fridge for up to 7 days

• Freeze for up to 3 months

For Crunchy Nibbles

• Store in an airtight jar at room temperature for 10–14 days

• Freeze for later to maintain freshness

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Can You Customize This Recipe for Your Dog?

Absolutely — think of this recipe as a template. Let’s go over popular variations.

Dog-Safe Add-Ins

• Peanut butter (xylitol-free!)

• Banana puree

• Finely shredded carrots

• Spinach puree

• Unsweetened applesauce

Grain-Free Version

Swap oat flour with:

• Coconut flour (use less; it absorbs more liquid)

• Almond flour (good for low-carb dogs)

Higher-Protein Version

Add:

• 1–2 tbsp of plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp of collagen powder

• 1 tbsp of cooked, mashed sweet potato

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What Makes Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles a Festive Fall Treat?

It’s all about the seasonal charm. These ingredients align with popular fall flavors — pumpkins, apples, cinnamon — the same aromas you find in your favorite autumn recipes.

Plus:

• The colors are warm and autumnal.

• They pair perfectly with Halloween or Thanksgiving celebrations.

• They make adorable homemade gifts for pet lovers.

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Are Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles Safe for All Dogs?

Generally, yes — but there are a few exceptions.

Avoid If Your Dog:

• Has apple allergies

• Is sensitive to grains (use a grain-free variation)

• Cannot digest high-fiber foods

• Has diabetes (reduce apple content)

Introduce Slowly

Any new treat should be introduced carefully. Start with:

• 1 treat for small dogs

• 2–3 treats for medium dogs

• 3–4 treats for large dogs

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How Many Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles Can Dogs Have Per Day?

Follow this simple guide:

Remember: treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

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How Do You Make These Nibbles Crunchier?

If your pup prefers crispy treats:

1. Roll dough thinner (⅛–¼ inch).

2. Bake longer at a slightly lower temperature (325°F).

3. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for 30–60 minutes.

This removes extra moisture and enhances shelf life.

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Can You Make Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles Without an Oven?

Yes! Try these no-bake alternatives:

No-Bake Pumpkin & Apple Balls

• Mix pumpkin, oat flour, and finely diced apples.

• Roll into small balls.

• Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.

Dehydrator Version

• Spread thin dough strips onto dehydrator trays.

• Dry at 125°F for 6–8 hours.

These versions won’t taste like baked biscuits, but they’re a quick, dog-approved alternative.

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Fun Ways to Serve Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles

Want to level up the experience? Try these:

• Treat-topping: Crumble over your dog’s food.

• Frozen snack: Freeze a few in yogurt for a summer twist.

• Party favor: Add them to pup-friendly gift bags for birthdays.

• Training sessions: Make tiny squares for an easy, low-cal training reward.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go wrong if we’re not paying attention. Here are mistakes to avoid:

• Using pumpkin pie filling (contains sugar and spices unsafe for dogs)

• Leaving apple seeds in (toxic in high amounts)

• Adding nutmeg (dangerous for dogs)

• Using too much cinnamon (can irritate the stomach)

• Overbaking treats (they may become too hard for senior dogs)

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Conclusion: A Simple, Nutritious Way to Celebrate Fall With Your Pup

Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles are more than just treats — they’re a fun way to share fall flavors with your furry best friend. They’re wholesome, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re prepping for a doggy Halloween party, looking for seasonal training treats, or simply want to make something special at home, these nibbles check all the boxes.

So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let your kitchen fill with cozy autumn aromas. Your pup will thank you with wagging tails and happy crunches.

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FAQs About Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles

1. Can puppies eat Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles?

Yes — in small amounts and with soft, chewable textures. Make sure pieces are tiny and easy to swallow.

2. Can I use canned apples instead of fresh?

No. Canned apples often contain sugar or preservatives not safe for dogs.

3. What if my dog has a sensitive stomach?

Start with a small amount. Pumpkin typically helps digestion, but apples may be too fibrous for some dogs.

4. Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked treats?

Yes! Freeze dough for up to 3 months and thaw before baking.

5. Can I add peanut butter to the recipe?

Absolutely — as long as it’s xylitol-free and unsweetened.

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Key Takeaways

• Pumpkin & Apple Nibbles are a healthy, festive dog treat perfect for fall.

• They’re easy to make, highly customizable, and full of dog-friendly nutrients.

• Avoid harmful ingredients like pumpkin pie filling, apple seeds, and nutmeg.

• Store properly to maintain freshness.

• Freeze extras for convenient future treats.