Description
These Pumpkin & Flaxseed Dental Sticks are a healthy, homemade dog treat designed to support dental health and provide nutritional benefits. Made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin purée and ground flaxseed, these crunchy sticks help keep your dog’s teeth clean while delivering fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Perfect for dog owners looking for a natural alternative to store-bought dental chews.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened, no spices)
- 1 large egg
- 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed for dough consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, egg, and ground flaxseed. Stir together until well mixed. Gradually add the oat flour, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough is cohesive but not sticky.
- Shape the Sticks: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the dough into thin rectangular strips to form sticks, suitable for your dog’s size.
- Bake the Dental Sticks: Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the sticks are firm and slightly golden around the edges.
- Cool and Store: Remove the dental sticks from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, store the dental sticks in an airtight container for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Use unsweetened pumpkin purée without added spices or sugars for safest consumption by dogs.
- You can substitute oat flour with whole wheat flour if your dog has no wheat allergies.
- Adjust water quantity carefully to get the right dough consistency for easy rolling and shaping.
- Thin and long strips work best as dental sticks to help with mechanical cleaning of dog’s teeth.
- Always supervise your dog with treats to prevent choking.
