Holiday Dog Treats: Festive Recipes and Fun for Your Pup

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and great food—and your dog should be part of it all. Instead of sharing table scraps or unsafe human food, consider making holiday dog treats designed just for your pup. With nutritious, dog-friendly ingredients, you can celebrate the season safely while making memories together.

The Dos and Don’ts of Holiday Dog Treats

Planning to spoil your pup with something special this season? The key is knowing which ingredients are safe and which to avoid.

Dog-Friendly Holiday Ingredients

Several festive foods can double as nutritious ingredients in holiday dog treats:

• Sweet potatoesNaturally rich in vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes may support immune function and promote a healthier coat.

• Unsweetened cranberriesA source of antioxidants that may support urinary health.

• PumpkinHigh in fiber and low in calories, pumpkin can help with digestion and provide a feeling of fullness.

These ingredients can be safely mixed into baked or frozen treats for a fun seasonal twist.

Common Holiday Foods to Avoid

Many traditional holiday dishes include ingredients that are unsafe for dogs. Keep these items out of reach:

• Chocolate – Toxic even in small amounts; may lead to serious health concerns

• Onions and garlic – Can damage red blood cells and cause toxicity

• Sugary foods – May contribute to obesity, digestive upset, and long-term health issues

When in doubt, stick to simple, whole-food ingredients that are known to be safe.

Holiday Recipe Spotlight: Cranberry & Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened peanut butter

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cranberry sauce

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl to form a dough.

3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick.

4. Use cookie cutters to shape biscuits.

5. Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes.

6. Cool completely before serving.

This festive recipe combines flavor with function and makes a great homemade gift for any dog in your life.

Creative Holiday Dog Treat Ideas

Looking to mix it up? Here are three more easy options to make the holidays extra special.

• Frozen Pumpkin Yogurt BitesMix plain unsweetened yogurt with pumpkin puree and freeze in silicone molds.

• DIY Dog EggnogBlend unsweetened almond milk with a spoonful of pumpkin puree and a dash of cinnamon.

• Sweet Potato ChewsThinly slice sweet potatoes and bake at 250°F for 2–3 hours until chewy and golden.

These options are easy to prepare and offer variety beyond store-bought treats.

Including Your Dog in Holiday Traditions

The holidays are about connection—and your dog can be part of it all.

• Dress Them UpA festive bandana or simple holiday accessory can be a fun and safe way to include your pup in family photos.

• Capture the MomentTake holiday pictures with your dog as part of the celebration. These images become keepsakes for years to come.

• Create a Dog-Safe Holiday PlateWhile the rest of the family eats, set aside a few dog-safe foods like sweet potatoes or plain turkey (no seasoning) so your pup feels part of the feast.

Key Takeaway

With a little planning and a few safe, wholesome ingredients, holiday dog treats can be both festive and functional. Homemade recipes and intentional moments create opportunities to include your dog in the joy of the season—while keeping them healthy and safe.