Pumpkin Jerky

These chewy pumpkin jerky strips are a fun, healthy way to extend your dog’s chewing time while providing the natural benefits of pumpkin — rich in fibre, beta-carotene, and gentle on digestion.
Perfect as an occasional enrichment or training treat, this recipe uses just one wholesome ingredient and can be made easily in your oven or dehydrator. They’re naturally low in fat and free from additives, making them an excellent alternative to processed chews

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Pumpkin Jerky

Yield: 20-25 Strips

Author: The Canine Dietitian

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 8 HourTotal time: 8 H & 15 M

Make your own dog-friendly pumpkin jerky with this easy oven or dehydrator recipe. Perfect for enrichment and training, these low-fat chews support healthy digestion and are free from additives. Includes serving tips and storage instructions.

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Ingredients

• 1 small sugar pumpkin (or approximately 2 cups / 450g of fresh pumpkin flesh)
• (Optional) 1–2 tbsp low-sodium chicken broth or plain water for brushing

Instructions

1. Option 1: Oven Method
2. Preheat oven to 90–110°C (200–225°F).
3. Prepare pumpkin: remove skin, seeds, and fibrous parts, then slice the flesh into 3–5 mm thick strips.
4. Optional: Lightly brush strips with low-sodium broth or water if dry.
5. Place slices on a wire rack or lined baking tray.
6. Bake for 4–8 hours, depending on thickness, until leathery but still flexible.
7. Cool completely before storing.
8. Option 2: Dehydrator Method
9. Arrange pumpkin slices on dehydrator trays, ensuring they don’t overlap.
10. Set to 60°C (140°F) and dry for 6–10 hours, or until leathery.
11. Cool before storage.
12. Option 3: Air Fryer Method
13. Preheat air fryer to 90°C (195°F) (or the lowest setting available).
14. Lightly brush air fryer basket or use baking parchment with holes to prevent sticking.
15. Arrange pumpkin slices in a single layer — do not overlap (work in batches if needed).
16. Air fry for 60–90 minutes, turning halfway through.
17. If your air fryer does not go below 100°C, reduce the time to 45–60 minutes and check frequently to prevent burning.
18. The jerky is ready when it feels dry, leathery, and slightly flexible.
19. Allow to cool completely before placing in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts

Protein

1 g

Calories

18

Fat

0 g

Carbs

4 g

Cholesterol

0 mg

Fiber

0 g

Net carbs

4 g

Sat. Fat

0 g

Sodium

1 mg

Sugar

2 g

Calories are per treat

Serving size:

• Small dogs: 1–2 small strips
• Medium dogs: 2–3 strips
• Large dogs: 3–4 strips

Shelf life:

• Room temperature: up to 5 days (in airtight container)
• Refrigerated: up to 3 weeks
• Frozen: up to 3 months
• Vacuum-sealed: up to 6 months (stored in a cool, dry place)

Always supervise your dog while chewing.

Not Suitable For

• Puppies under 12 weeks
• Dogs with dental disease or missing teeth (texture may be too firm)
• Dogs on low-fibre or low-carb diets without vet approval

Similar Recipes

Salmon Jerky

Pumpkin and Oat Cookies

https://www.thecaninedietitian.co.uk/recipes-for-dogs/pumpkin-jerky-for-dogs

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