A Dog-Friendly "Pumpkin Spice Latte" Recipe

In 2003, the “Liquid Lab” in the Seattle Starbucks headquarters was trying to figure out their next big success after the Peppermint Mocha was an absolute hit. If you can believe it, pumpkin flavored anything wasn’t really a thing at the time, except in actual pumpkin pie. The customer surveys reflected it, too: the idea of a pumpkin coffee ranked dead last, so the Liquid Lab ideated on chocolate caramel and cinnamon spice recipes instead. But one product developer just couldn’t let it go.

After pouring over (pun not intended) literal bites of pumpkin pies and hot espresso, they formulated and deliberated which spice profile would pair best to result in what’s now known as the Pumpkin Spice Latte. This cult classic seasonal drink, which was almost called the “Fall Harvest Latte,” was only tested in one hundred Starbucks locations in Washington, D.C. and Vancouver, on opposite coastlines before it exploded into national obsession.

Now, in 2025, fall is here and we can’t imagine what it would be without the beloved PSL. While you could get your dog a ‘pup cup’ as you’re heading through the drive-through to get your own pumpkin spice latte (and you should), we’d be remiss if we felt like your dog wasn’t missing out on an important part of the fall season.

So keep reading on how you can make your dog a “pumpkin spice latte” – it’s easy, requires only a small amount of ingredients and is very rewarding for you – and obviously your dog, too! 

Ingredients: 

Oat milk or goat milk (be sure to avoid any nut milks like almond milk) 

Plain pumpkin puree: Always double-check that the can isn’t pumpkin pie filling. The only ingredient listed should be pumpkin – without any spices, added sugar or other flavors. 

Whipped cream (pet-friendly and optional)

Pinch of turmeric spice (pet-friendly and optional)

Your dog’s favorite treat (optional)

Directions:

See the video on how to make it here.

1. Start by mixing a 1:1 ratio of oat or goat milk with plain pumpkin puree. We did four tablespoons of each, but you can scale up or down depending on your pup’s size. A milk frother works great for this, if you have one.

2. Once the milk and pumpkin puree are combined well, top with whipped cream, a light sprinkle of turmeric spice for color and a small dog treat for garnish, as desired.

3. Serve to your (probably impatiently waiting) dog – always with supervison! 

We hope your dog loves this autumn flavor – and that you enjoy yours, too! You both deserve it.

If you try out this pet recipe, tag us on Facebook and Instagram @CampBowWow so we can see your recreations.

And of course, we always have canine treats waiting for your Camper at your local Camp Bow Wow, along with a calendar full of seasonal activities and enrichments. Sign your dog up for Day Camp today – the holidays are on the horizon, so act now before spots are filled up!