While dog treats should never replace well-balanced meals, I view reward-worthy moments and snack time as another opportunity to provide our pups with extra nourishment. That’s why, whenever I’m in recipe development mode, I select each ingredient carefully and purposefully. Today’s savory soft chews only call for a few simple ingredients: lean ground turkey (a quality protein), 100% pure pumpkin purée (benefits digestion), and plain gelatin powder (great for joints, digestion, hair, skin, and nails).

Watch the recipe video above for a step-by-step guide to making these wiggly, jiggly treats. As you scroll, the video should stick to the bottom right side of your screen. You can also view the video on YouTube HERE!

The Backstory

These Turkey Pumpkin Gelatin bites are a spinoff of my Chicken Jello dog treats, which I first released more than a year ago. I originally created that recipe after my aging Chihuahua, Diego, was diagnosed with the early stages of arthritis. I went on the hunt for fresh foods and supplements that would naturally nourish his joints. Enter: Gelatin!

About Gelatin

High in amino acids (the building blocks of protein), gelatin is a form of hydrolyzed collagen (AKA broken-down collagen) that’s taken from animal parts. I’m not talking about a plain chicken breast, though. Instead, gelatin is from areas like an animal’s skin, bone marrow, tissues, and tendons. It’s virtually colorless and tasteless.

When shopping for gelatin, you may notice it comes in a powder form. Once you mix it with some warm liquid, though, it becomes a jiggly jelly texture. Just think of Jell-O!

It’s important to note, not all gelatin powder is created equal. If you’re looking for convenience, Knox is a popular brand that you can probably find at your local grocery store. But, if you’re looking to reap the biggest health reward, then look into brands like Great Lakes.

Supplies List

Food scale
Saucepot
Blender
Food-grade silicone molds
Baking sheet

Turkey Pumpkin Gelatin Dog Treats

Print Recipe

Ingredients

¼ pound lean ground turkey (I use 99% lean)
Water, enough to fill the pot (will need to reserve 1/2 cup)
¼ cup 100% pure pumpkin purée
Plain, unflavored gelatin powder (If using KNOX, you'll need 1 packet. If using Great Lakes, you'll need 1 tablespoon)

Instructions

Put ground turkey into a pot and fill with water (enough to cover).
On medium/high heat, let cook for about 15 minutes.
Leaving your freshly made turkey broth in the saucepan, transfer the cooked turkey and pumpkin purée into a blender. Puree until smooth. Set Aside.
Measure 1/2 cup of warm turkey broth and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add gelatin powder and whisk until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
Stir the pureed turkey and pumpkin mixture into the gelatin-laden broth until smooth. It should have a gravy-like consistency.
Place two silicone molds onto a baking sheet for support and spoon the mixture into each mold, filling to the top.
Move to the refrigerator for 2 hours, or until fully set.
Remove wiggly, jiggly treats from the mold. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days.