Vegan Pumpkin Oat Training Chips: The Tiny, Crunchy Reward for Smart Dogs

I’m so happy to share this Vegan Pumpkin Oat Training “Chips” recipe, because it is a simple three ingredient treat that is perfect for small training rewards. These little bites are made with oat flour, plain pumpkin puree, and a bit of melted coconut oil, which are all dog safe when used correctly. They are baked thin so they turn into light, crunchy chips without extra sugar, salt, or artificial flavors. I love that they are homemade, easy to portion into tiny pieces, and designed especially for repeated rewards during training sessions.

The first time I made these, I wanted something very small and simple that I could use again and again while teaching my dog new tricks. Big treats filled him up too fast, but these tiny chips were just right. He stayed focused, and I felt good knowing exactly what was inside each bite.

What makes this recipe special is how basic it is. Just oat flour, pumpkin, and coconut oil come together into a smooth dough that rolls out thin. When baked, the pieces turn firm and slightly crunchy, which makes them easy to carry in a treat pouch.

Here is why I like this recipe:

• Only three main ingredients
• No added sugar, salt, onion, or garlic
• Small size for training sessions
• Easy to digest for many dogs

Even though these ingredients are generally dog friendly, every dog is different. Please talk to your vet about what is safe and appropriate for your dog.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Oat Training “Chips”

• Preheat the oven and line a baking sheet.
• Mix pumpkin puree with melted coconut oil.
• Gradually stir in oat flour to form a firm dough.
• Roll the dough very thin on a lightly floured surface.
• Cut into tiny squares or mini shapes.
• Bake until firm and lightly crisp.
• Let cool completely before serving or storing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup oat flour (you can make this by blending plain old fashioned oats until fine, no added sugar)
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, no spices, no xylitol, no added sugar)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted (plain, no added flavors)

Optional:

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (Ceylon type is preferred, use only a small amount)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so the treats do not stick.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree and melted coconut oil until smooth. If using cinnamon, mix it in at this stage.
3. Slowly add the oat flour to the wet mixture. Stir well until a firm dough forms that is not sticky.
4. If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra oat flour. If it feels too dry and crumbly, knead it gently with your hands until it holds together.
5. Lightly dust your counter with a bit of oat flour. Roll the dough out very thin, about 1/8 inch thick, so the treats bake into chip like pieces.
6. Use a mini cookie cutter or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into small 1/2 inch squares or tiny shapes. Place them close together on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the pieces feel firm and slightly crisp. For a crunchier texture, turn off the oven and let the treats sit inside for another 30 to 60 minutes to dry out more.
8. Transfer the treats to a wire rack and let them cool completely before giving any to your dog. Make sure they are fully cool so your dog does not burn their mouth.

Process Details

• The dough should feel smooth and firm, not sticky. If it sticks to your hands, add a small dusting of oat flour.
• Rolling the dough thin is important. Thicker pieces will be softer and less chip like.
• Smaller pieces bake more evenly and are safer for training rewards.
• The treats are ready when they are firm to the touch and lightly dry on the surface.
• Letting them sit in the turned off oven helps remove extra moisture and makes them crunchier.

Tips for Success

• Always check labels to be sure the pumpkin is plain and does not contain spices, xylitol, or added sugar.
• Do not use pumpkin pie filling, as it may contain ingredients that are unsafe for dogs.
• Keep the pieces very small for training, especially for small breeds.
• These are training treats, not full meals, so give them in small amounts.
• If your dog has diabetes, yeast issues, or other health conditions, talk to your vet before offering pumpkin based treats.
• Introduce new treats slowly and watch for any signs of stomach upset.

Serving Ideas

• Use a few tiny chips during short training sessions.
• Carry them in a small pouch for walks.
• Offer one or two after grooming or nail trimming.
• Give a few pieces as a light reward on special days.
• Adjust the number of treats based on your dog’s size and daily food intake.

Storage & Freezing

• Store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• For longer storage, place them in a freezer safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Let frozen treats come to room temperature before serving.
• If the treats smell off, feel sticky, or show any mold, throw them away.
• Crunchy treats may soften slightly if exposed to moisture, so keep the container tightly sealed.

These Vegan Pumpkin Oat Training “Chips” are a simple and thoughtful way to reward your dog during training. I love that they are small, easy to make, and free from unnecessary extras.

• Roll them thinner for extra crunch.
• Cut slightly larger pieces for bigger dogs.
• Watch your dog the first time they try them to be sure they handle them well.

Making small homemade treats like this is a sweet way to strengthen the bond you share with your dog.