Carrot Pumpkin Dental Treats

I found these while writing my book, The Dog Cookbook. I was hoping to test out as many recipes as possible, so I tried to make a fun spin on a recipe, the beet and pumpkin dental chew. Since I didn’t have any beets, I used carrots instead. I mixed it together, and it wasn’t getting thick like a dough should be.

I just went with it, added a TON of flour, and cut it into strips anyway. After I cooked them, they were crumbly, so I said “Scrap the idea of a dental chew – we have dental treats now!”

After they cooked and cooled a little, I cut them into squares and then let them cool the rest of the way. They are great because they can last up to two weeks in the fridge!

The ingredients in this chew are simple and have plenty of health benefits for dogs.

• Pumpkin Puree: pumpkin is great for helping with an upset stomach, it is rich in fiber and an abundance of vitamins and minerals
• Carrots: carrots support dental health, are low in calories, and are filled with vitamins
• Brown Rice Flour: this flour is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike whole wheat flour, it is easy to cook with, and dogs don’t mind the taste!
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a vitamin POWERHOUSE. It supports skin and coat health, it is great for dental healthcare (it actually works well as dog toothpaste!), improves digestion, and sometimes even boosts energy levels.
• Turmeric Powder: turmeric powder reduces inflammation (it works great for cuts!), supports joint health, and even prevents some cancers! It also can improve digestion, boost the immune system, and offer antioxidant protection. I used turmeric capsules (make sure turmeric is the only ingredient)
• Cinnamon: cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as potential benefits for blood sugar regulation and digestive health.

Like all treats, these dental treats should be fed in moderation. A couple a day works well – they are great for training. I use them to practice “Leave It” “Stay” and “Sit”.

Carrot Pumpkin Dental Treats – – – – – Makes: 40-50 small treats – Cook Time: 35-40 minutes – Prep Time: 20-25 minutes – Total Time: 55 minutes-1 hour

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup pure pumpkin puree ½ cup cooked and pureed carrots 1 ¼ cup oat flour, brown rice flour, chickpea flour, or coconut flour (I would NOT do wheat flour. Gluten-free all purpose might work.) 2 tbsp melted coconut oil ½ tsp turmeric pwd. (for me, it was 2 small capsules) A dash of cinnamon (optional flavoring)

INSTRUCTIONS: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, carrot puree, and coconut oil. Gradually add flour, mixing well to creat a firm dough Add tumeric and cinnamon, and mix thoroughly. If the dough is too dry, add water one tbsp at a time, until reaching the desired consistency. Preheat the oven to 300°F Roll out the dough to a ¼ inch thickness, and cut into rectangular strips. Place strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until firm and slightly browned at the edges. Allow chews to cool completely before serving to your dog. Store in an airtight container

Keeps for up to a week at room temperature, or 2 weeks in a refrigerator. Oven temp is 300°F, or 150°C.