Embrace the essence of autumn with a wholesome treat that's sure to get your dog's tail wagging. This pumpkin pie is the perfect way to include your best friend in the seasonal celebrations, with a recipe specially crafted for their health and safety.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg

For the Filling:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (plain, with no additives)
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup 100% peanut butter (with no additives)
• 1 egg

Instructions:

For the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine the whole wheat flour, unsweetened applesauce, and egg in a large mixing bowl until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface so it's just the right size for your pie dish.
4. Gently fit the dough into the dish, molding it to the bottom and sides evenly.

For the Filling:

1. In a different bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, applesauce, 100% peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
2. Evenly spread the filling into the crust, ready for baking.

Baking:

1. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the filling sets and is firm to the touch.
2. Let the pie cool entirely before considering serving to ensure it’s safe for your dog to enjoy.

Serving and Portion Instructions:

When it comes to serving treats like this, portion control is vital. Treats should only make up a small percentage of your dog's daily caloric intake; most experts recommend no more than 10%.

• For Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): Serve a small, thin slice (about 1 inch at the widest part of the pie slice). It’s best to start with a small amount to ensure it agrees with your dog’s stomach.
• For Medium Dogs (20-60 lbs): A medium slice (about 2 inches at the widest part) can be appropriate, depending on their overall diet and caloric needs.
• For Large Dogs (60 lbs and above): A larger slice (about 3 inches at the widest part) might be suitable for dogs of this size, but always consider the individual dietary requirements and activity levels of your dog.

General Guidelines:

• Always introduce new treats gradually and in small quantities to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
• Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions after eating the pie, such as changes in bowel movements, flatulence, or signs of discomfort.
• This pie is a treat, not a meal replacement. It should be given alongside a balanced diet.
• If your dog has specific health issues, like diabetes or weight management needs, consult with your vet before offering them pie.
• Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Offer the pie at room temperature. If you’ve stored the pie in the fridge, let it sit out for a little while so it's not too cold, which can be uncomfortable for some dogs to eat.

As a rule of thumb, any treat, no matter how healthy, should be factored into your dog’s overall diet plan to avoid overfeeding. If in doubt about the appropriate serving size, especially if your dog is on a special diet or has health concerns, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian.

Tips:

• Select a pumpkin puree that is unsweetened and free of any spices, as these can be harmful to dogs.
• Inspect the label on the peanut butter to confirm that it’s 100% peanuts with no added oils, sugar, or sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
• Check that your dog has no allergies to any of the ingredients!
• Always take into account any unique dietary restrictions your dog may have and when in doubt, consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats.

There’s nothing like seeing your dog enjoy a slice of homemade pumpkin pie on a cool fall day. This recipe not only celebrates the season but does so with your dog's nutritional needs in mind. Serve this pie as a special treat, and always in moderation, to keep your pup's diet balanced. Enjoy this bonding activity, and here’s to a delightful fall with your furry friend!

Please tag us when your Lucky Dog is enjoying their treat.