• 1 cup finely grated summer squash (moisture lightly squeezed out)

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free option)

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed for dough consistency)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Finely grate the summer squash and gently squeeze out excess moisture.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine grated squash, egg, peanut butter, and olive oil.

4. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time if needed.

5. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.

6. Use bone-shaped cookie cutters and place treats on the baking sheet.

7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and firm.

8. Let cool completely before serving to your dog.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Refrigerate for up to 10 days for extended freshness.

• Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 small treat per day

• Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 treats per day

• Large dogs (50+ lbs): 2–3 treats per day

Always serve treats in moderation alongside a balanced diet.

There’s something special about baking homemade treats for a beloved dog. These Summer Squash Dog Treats came together on a quiet afternoon when fresh garden squash was overflowing on the counter, and turning it into something nourishing felt like the perfect way to share the harvest. The recipe is intentionally simple — no preservatives, no complicated steps — just real ingredients mixed with care. Watching eager paws wait by the oven makes the process even sweeter. Homemade treats aren’t just about food; they’re about connection, routine, and those small everyday moments that make life with a dog so meaningful. This recipe is an easy reminder that sometimes the simplest ingredients create the happiest tails.