This weekend there is sure to be a lot of pumpkin carving events! I love how in Ireland we are really upping our Halloween game and it’s a far cry from our one night of wearing a bin bag and toxic face paint.
Is anyone as old as me and remembers the one Halloween where Quinnsworth was handing out 3D glasses and Irish TV was showing some, well less than stellar Halloween 3D movies? No? Well, that was the highlight of my youthful Halloween festivities.
Now, I’m 100% embracing every new festive tradition, pumpkin carving being top of the list! Duncan has inspired me too – his scary pumpkin in the photo above! Ok so this is all well and good but at Phoenix Bark and at home, we don’t like waste – what to do with all the lovely pumpkin meat – healthy dog treats for Barbara of course!!
This is an easy 2 ingredient recipe – Pumpkin and Bone Broth Frozen Treats
Pumpkin is packed with fibre, beta-carotene, vitamins and minerals, making it a wonderful addition to your dog’s diet. Its soluble fibre helps support digestion and regulate stools, while its antioxidants support overall wellbeing.
Paired with Boil & Broth, it becomes a nutrient-dense, highly digestible treat that your dog will love. The broth adds collagen, amino acids and minerals to support joints, skin, gut health and overall immune function.
Steamed Pumpkin & Boil & Broth
14 Treats for a Small Dog (5kg)
Ingredients:
- Fresh pumpkin flesh (no skin or seeds): 210g (15g per treat × 14)
- Boil & Broth powder: 2 1/3 scoops (1/6 scoop per treat)
- Boiling water: 210–350ml (adjust for desired consistency)
Method:
- Steam the pumpkin until soft (15–20 minutes).
- Prepare the broth:
- Combine pumpkin and broth:
- Mash or blend until smooth.
- Adjust water to make a thicker “jelly” or more liquid puree depending on how you’ll serve it.
- Portion and freeze:
- Divide into 14 equal portions.
- Pour into ice cube trays or silicone moulds and freeze for at least 24 hours.
- Add 2 1/3 scoops of Boil & Broth powder to 210–350ml boiling water.
- Stir until fully dissolved, let it cool slightly.
For a Medium Dog (20kg) – 14 Treats
Ingredients:
- Fresh pumpkin flesh (no skin or seeds): 420g (30g per treat × 14)
- Boil & Broth powder: 4 2/3 scoops
- Boiling water: 420–700ml (adjust for desired consistency)
Each treat will be approximately 30g.
Tips for Safe Feeding
- Introduce gradually: Especially if your dog hasn’t had pumpkin before.
- Soften frozen treats: Let them thaw for a few minutes or serve slightly softened to avoid choking, particularly in small dogs.
- Supervise: Always watch your dog when giving a new treat.
- Adjust consistency: For dogs who gulp quickly or have difficulty chewing, serve as a thinner puree or meal topper.
⚠️ What to Avoid
- Mouldy pumpkins, painted pumpkins or those sprayed with chemicals or toxins.
- Treats that are too large for very small dogs, portion appropriately.