Holiday-Themed Dog Treats: Festive Recipes for Your Furry Friend

The holidays aren’t just for humans. They’re for hounds, too. When twinkling lights go up and the scent of cinnamon fills the air, your dog probably senses something special is afoot. And let’s face it — they deserve to join the celebration.

But while festive spreads are a highlight for us, many human holiday treats are packed with ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. So how do you include your pooch in the fun? Easy — whip up some homemade holiday dog treats that are both safe and scrumptious.

In this post, you’ll find simple, healthy, and tail-waggingly good festive dog snacks made with real ingredients. We’ll explore flavourful recipes, ingredient tips, and safety pointers — all wrapped up in a bow of joy, experience, and a dash of canine nutrition wisdom.

Why Holiday Treats for Dogs Matter

A part of the family

Dogs aren’t just pets. They’re part of our family — whether that means stealing the warm spot on the sofa or greeting you like a rock star every time you walk in. Including them in holiday traditions helps strengthen that bond.

Safe indulgence

Letting your dog lick gravy off your plate or sneak a bit of pie might seem harmless. But many festive foods — like onions, chocolate, grapes, and nutmeg — can be toxic to pups. Homemade dog treats let you offer tasty alternatives without the risk.

Routine with a twist

While keeping your dog’s diet consistent is important, adding a special homemade treat during the holidays can offer mental stimulation and help them feel included in the festive cheer, especially if you make it part of a routine like gift-giving or family dinner.

Key Ingredients for Safe and Festive Dog Treats

You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Just a few wholesome staples that are both dog-friendly and seasonal.

Dog-safe festive ingredients include:

• Pumpkin (plain, canned or fresh): Great for digestion and adds a lovely flavour.
• Cranberries (dried, unsweetened): Full of antioxidants — just avoid added sugars or juices.
• Carrots and sweet potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene and natural sweetness.
• Peanut butter (xylitol-free): A firm favourite that binds well and adds protein.
• Oats and wholewheat flour: Gentle on digestion and perfect for a treat texture.
• Cinnamon (in small amounts): A safe, warming spice that adds a festive aroma.

Pro tip: Always double-check ingredient safety if trying something new. The AKC and RSPCA websites are great for up-to-date dog nutrition guidelines.

3 Festive Holiday Dog Treat Recipes Your Pup Will Love

These homemade dog treats aren’t just themed — they’re fun, freezer-friendly, and budget-conscious. Let’s get baking.

1. Christmas Crunchy Gingerbread Bites

Why your dog will love it: It smells like Christmas and satisfies the urge to crunch.

You’ll need:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup molasses (unsulphured)
• ¼ cup peanut butter (natural, xylitol-free)
• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 160°C (fan) or 180°C (conventional).
2. Mix all ingredients into a dough.
3. Roll out and use festive cookie cutters — think stars, snowflakes, or gingerbread men.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm and lightly golden.
5. Let cool completely before serving.

Storage tip: These store well in an airtight jar for up to 10 days, or freeze for longer shelf life.

2. Frozen Cranberry & Pumpkin Pupsicles

Why it’s festive: These frozen dog treats look like little holiday jewels and are perfect for warmer Christmas climates (or dogs who just love an icy snack).

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup plain yoghurt (unsweetened, low-fat)
• ¼ cup cranberries (unsweetened)
• A splash of water or bone broth

How to make:

1. Blend all ingredients together until smooth.
2. Pour into silicone moulds or ice cube trays.
3. Freeze for at least 4 hours.
4. Pop out and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 weeks.

Serving idea: Use festive silicone moulds — like bells or paw prints — to make them even cuter.

3. Sweet Potato & Turkey Biscuits

Perfect for: Using up some of that leftover holiday roast.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
• ½ cup cooked turkey (shredded, no bones or skin)
• 1 egg
• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Steps:

1. Mix everything into a soft dough.
2. Shape into small rounds or press into biscuit cutters.
3. Bake at 180°C for 25 minutes or until dry and golden.
4. Cool completely before treating.

Quick note: Always remove any bones, seasoning, or skin from leftover meat. Plain, cooked turkey is best.

Tailoring Treats to Your Dog’s Needs

Every dog is unique. Here’s how to tweak your holiday recipes for different dietary needs.

For senior dogs

• Go softer: Use mashed banana or yoghurt to keep treats soft.
• Add joint helpers: A sprinkle of turmeric or fish oil can support mobility.

For puppies

• Keep it simple: Avoid spices and stick to bland bases like oats and banana.
• Small sizes: Make treats tiny enough for safe chewing and training rewards.

For dogs with allergies

• Grain-free options: Swap flour for coconut or chickpea flour.
• Avoid common allergens: Skip dairy and peanut butter if they’re sensitive.

Always check with your vet if your dog has any specific health concerns or dietary needs before changing up their treat menu.

Make It a Festive Activity

Why not turn treat-making into a tradition?

Get the whole family involved:

• Kids can cut out shapes or decorate dog-safe treats with a bit of mashed veg “icing”.
• Older family members might enjoy sharing stories of past pets as they bake.

Try a DIY dog gift hamper:

• Pop treats into a cute tin or jar.
• Add a chew toy, a festive bandana, or a handwritten tag with your dog’s name.

A Season of Treats and Togetherness

Your dog gives you unconditional love all year — the holidays are your chance to give something special back. Whether it’s a crunchy gingerbread biscuit or a frosty pumpkin bite, homemade holiday dog treats are a beautiful way to share the spirit of the season.

What makes these recipes special isn’t just the ingredients — it’s the thought and love behind them. When you take the time to craft something by hand, your dog senses that joy. And that’s what the holidays are really about, isn’t it?

So grab your apron, preheat the oven (or the freezer!), and create something joyful. Your dog’s tail wags will be the best holiday cheer you could ask for.

Got a holiday recipe your dog goes wild for? Share it in the comments below! Or snap a photo of your festive treats and tag us on social media — we’d love to feature your creations. Don’t forget to subscribe for more seasonal dog food inspiration and homemade snack ideas.