If you’re looking for a healthy, affordable, and dog-friendly ingredient to use in homemade treats, butternut squash is one of the best options available. It’s packed with vitamins, gentle on the stomach, and naturally sweet — making it a favourite even for picky pups. Whether you’re new to homemade dog treats or you’re looking for new, nutritious recipes to add to your rotation, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll dive into why butternut squash is great for dogs and share five easy, wholesome treat recipes you can make in minutes. These treats use simple, real ingredients — no fillers, no preservatives, and no hidden nasties.

Let’s get baking (or no-baking!) for your furry best friend.

Is Butternut Squash Good for Dogs?

Absolutely — when cooked and served correctly.

Butternut squash offers a wide range of health benefits, including:

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🟠 High in Vitamins

Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A, C, B6, and E — all crucial for immune health, skin support, and cell function.

🟠 Rich in Fibre

It helps support healthy digestion and can naturally soothe sensitive stomachs.

🟠 Low in Fat & Calories

Perfect for weight-management treat recipes or dogs who need lighter snacks.

🟠 Full of Antioxidants

Beta-carotene helps support vision and overall well-being.

Important Note: Always serve squash cooked, never raw, and remove seeds and skin before feeding.

How to Prepare Butternut Squash for Dog Treats

Before we jump into the recipes, here’s the easiest way to prepare your squash:

🔪 Step-by-Step Prep

1. Peel the squash

2. Slice in half

3. Scoop out seeds

4. Chop into cubes

5. Steam, boil, or roast until soft

6. Mash with a fork or blend until smooth

Cooked squash will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or can be frozen for later.

Now let’s get into the fun part — the recipes!

Recipe 1: Butternut Squash & Peanut Butter Dog Cookies

A classic crunchy dog biscuit with a healthy twist. Perfect for training treats or everyday snacks.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked, mashed butternut squash

• ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)

• 2 cups oat flour (or blended oats)

• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).

2. Mix mashed squash and peanut butter until smooth.

3. Add egg and stir well.

4. Slowly mix in the oat flour until a dough forms.

5. Roll out on parchment paper and cut into shapes.

6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until firm.

Storage: Up to 5 days in an airtight container or freeze for 2 months.

Recipe 2: Soft Butternut Squash Training Treats (3 Ingredients)

Super soft — perfect for puppies and senior dogs who struggle with hard biscuits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked mashed butternut squash

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Blend oats to create a coarse flour.

3. Mix oats, squash, and egg until sticky.

4. Spread the mixture into a parchment-lined baking tray.

5. Bake for 15–18 minutes.

6. Slice into tiny squares while warm.

Storage: Keep refrigerated up to 7 days.

Recipe 3: Frozen Butternut Squash & Banana Bites

A quick, cooling treat — perfect for hot days or teething puppies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked butternut squash

• 1 ripe banana

• 2 tbsp plain yogurt (unsweetened)

Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. Spoon mixture into silicone moulds.

3. Freeze for 4 hours or overnight.

Storage: Store in freezer for up to 3 months.

Tip: Use bone-shaped moulds for extra cuteness!

Recipe 4: Butternut Squash & Chicken Mini Meatballs

A protein-packed, savoury treat that works great as a meal topper too.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked mashed butternut squash

• 200g ground chicken

• ½ cup oat flour

• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Mix chicken, squash, egg, and oat flour until combined.

3. Roll into small meatballs (bite-size for your dog).

4. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage:

• Refrigerate: 4 days

• Freeze: 2 months

Great for: picky eaters, dogs needing extra protein, and meal preppers.

Recipe 5: Butternut Squash No-Bake Dog Energy Balls

Quick, nutritious, and perfect when you don’t want to turn the oven on.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked mashed butternut squash

• ½ cup oat flour

• ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter

Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until thick.

2. Roll into small balls using your hands.

3. Place in the fridge for 1 hour to firm up.

Storage:
Refrigerate up to 1 week.

How Much Butternut Squash Can Dogs Eat?

Butternut squash should make up a small portion of your dog’s daily intake — ideally no more than 10% of their diet.

General serving guideline:

• Small dogs: 1–2 tablespoons

• Medium dogs: 1–¼ cup

• Large dogs: ¼–½ cup

Always introduce new foods slowly and check with your vet if your dog has medical conditions.

Final Tips for Safe Butternut Squash Treats

• Always remove seeds and skin

• Serve squash fully cooked

• Avoid spices like garlic, onion, or nutmeg

• Use plain, natural peanut butter only

• Store treats safely to avoid mold

Making your own dog treats is one of the easiest ways to ensure your pup is eating wholesome, nutritious ingredients — and butternut squash makes an excellent base for healthy recipes.

Your dog will love the natural sweetness, and you’ll love how easy these treats are to prepare. Whether you bake them, freeze them, or mix them into meals, these recipes are guaranteed to become household favourites.