Summer can get hot, and just like us, dogs need ways to stay cool and refreshed. That’s where homemade frozen treats come in!
They’re a fun, healthy way to keep your furry friend happy while providing hydration, soothing sore gums for teething puppies, or giving older dogs a little extra relief from the heat.
The best part? You control exactly what goes in them, so you know your pup is enjoying safe, nutritious ingredients.
From sweet fruit pops to savory broth cubes, there are endless flavor combinations to try.
In this guide, we’ll share easy recipes, storage tips, and creative ideas to make frozen treats your dog will look forward to all summer long-because a happy, cool pup is the best kind of summer companion!
Why Frozen Treats Are Great for Dogs?
Frozen treats are a fun and healthy way to help dogs stay cool on hot days. When the weather is warm, dogs can overheat easily, and a cold snack helps lower their body temperature.
These treats also add extra moisture, which helps keep dogs hydrated and feeling good.
For puppies who are teething, frozen treats can provide soothing relief for sore gums, while older dogs also appreciate the gentle cooling effect.
Using natural ingredients like fruits, yogurt, or peanut butter makes these snacks both tasty and nutritious.
They provide dogs with essential vitamins and energy, free from added sugar and preservatives. Frozen treats are an easy, safe, and yummy way to keep your furry friend happy and healthy all summer long.
Easy Frozen Treat Recipes for Dogs
Making frozen treats for your dog is simple, fun, and keeps them cool on hot days. These recipes use safe, healthy ingredients that dogs love.
1. Peanut Butter Banana Pops
Mash one ripe banana and mix it with two tablespoons of dog-safe peanut butter until smooth. Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays and freeze for two to three hours.
You can also add a spoonful of plain yogurt or oats for extra texture and creaminess. These pops are naturally sweet and rich in healthy fats and potassium.
They’re perfect for teething puppies or dogs who love a soft, cooling treat.
2. Watermelon Pup Pops
Cut seedless watermelon into cubes, blend until smooth, and pour into molds to freeze. Watermelon is hydrating and low in calories, making it an ideal summer snack.
Avoid the rind and seeds since they can cause stomach upset. These icy treats are refreshing, slightly sweet, and easy to make in large batches.
Dogs love the juicy texture, and you can even mix in a few blueberries for an added burst of color and antioxidants.
3. Yogurt and Blueberry Bites
Combine half a cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt with a handful of fresh blueberries. Stir and pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds before freezing for a few hours.
The yogurt offers probiotics that support digestion, while blueberries bring antioxidants and vitamins.
These creamy bites are nutritious and tasty, making them a perfect quick snack on hot days. They’re also great for dogs who enjoy smaller, bite-sized frozen treats with a tangy twist.
4. Chicken Broth Ice Cubes
Pour low-sodium chicken broth into ice cube trays and freeze overnight. You can add tiny pieces of cooked chicken for extra flavor and protein.
These savory cubes are especially good for dogs who prefer meaty flavors over sweet ones. Always choose broth without onions, garlic, or excess salt. The cubes can also be used to cool down meals or encourage hydration.
They’re simple, nourishing, and ideal for keeping dogs refreshed during warm weather.
5. Pumpkin and Apple Frozen Chews
Mix half a cup of unsweetened canned pumpkin with finely chopped apple pieces, then spoon into molds or ice cube trays. Freeze until solid. Pumpkin helps with digestion, while apple adds fiber and natural sweetness.
You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for a fall twist or blend in yogurt for creaminess.
These chewy treats are hearty, nutritious, and satisfying, perfect for dogs who enjoy a flavorful, cooling snack that’s gentle on their stomach.
6. Banana and Coconut Bites
Mash a ripe banana and mix it with 1–2 teaspoons of unsweetened shredded coconut. Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds and freeze for 2–3 hours.
These bites are naturally sweet and full of healthy fats from the coconut.
They’re perfect for dogs who love chewy, soft treats, and they provide energy and fiber, making them a nutritious and tasty snack.
7. Strawberry and Yogurt Pops
Blend fresh strawberries with plain unsweetened yogurt until smooth. Pour the mixture into molds or ice cube trays and freeze for a few hours.
Strawberries add vitamin C and antioxidants, while yogurt provides probiotics for healthy digestion.
These pops are creamy, sweet, and refreshing, making them ideal for hot days or as a cool treat after a long walk or play session.
8. Carrot and Apple Cubes
Blend fresh carrots with chopped apple and a little water until smooth. Pour the puree into ice cube trays and freeze until firm.
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, while apples add vitamins and a touch of sweetness. These crunchy cubes are ideal for teething puppies or dogs that enjoy chewing.
You can also mix in a spoonful of yogurt for creaminess. They’re colorful, refreshing, and a healthy way to keep dogs hydrated.
9. Sweet Potato Chews
Cook and mash sweet potatoes, then mix with a little water or yogurt for a creamy texture. Spoon into molds or ice cube trays and freeze until firm.
Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins that support digestion and overall health.
These chews are hearty, filling, and naturally sweet, making them a satisfying frozen treat for dogs of all sizes and ages.
10. Peanut Butter and Oat Bites
Combine two tablespoons of dog-safe peanut butter with one tablespoon of oats and a splash of water or plain yogurt. Mix well and spoon into molds or ice trays before freezing for two to three hours.
The oats provide fiber, while peanut butter adds protein and flavor. These chewy bites have a slightly crunchy texture that dogs love.
They’re great for rewarding good behavior or serving as a mid-day snack that keeps your pup satisfied and energized.
11. Blueberry and Spinach Cubes
Blend fresh spinach with a handful of blueberries and a little water or yogurt until smooth. Pour into ice cube trays and freeze.
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, while spinach adds vitamins and minerals for overall health.
These cubes are a nutrient-dense, low-calorie treat that dogs love, especially for those who need a little extra veggie boost. They’re perfect for a refreshing, healthy snack on hot days.
Things to Know Before Making Frozen Dog Treats
Before making frozen treats for your dog, it’s essential to follow a few simple guidelines to ensure their safety and happiness. Homemade snacks can be both fun and healthy when prepared with the right ingredients and tools.
These are some helpful tips to remember:
- Safe vs. Unsafe Ingredients: Use dog-friendly foods like bananas, blueberries, peanut butter (without xylitol), and plain yogurt. Avoid chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and artificial sweeteners.
- Portion size and serving frequency: Keep portions small-one or two treats a day is enough for most dogs.
- Storage tips: Store treats in a sealed container in the freezer for up to two months.
- Tools you’ll need: Ice cube trays, silicone molds, and blenders make prep quick and easy.
With these simple steps, you’ll create safe, tasty, and refreshing frozen snacks your pup will love!
Creative Variations and Customizations
Before making frozen treats, it’s fun to get creative while keeping them safe and healthy. You can mix different flavors, add helpful supplements, or even make treats look extra appealing with layers.
| Customization Idea | How to Do It | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing fruits and veggies | Combine dog-safe fruits like blueberries or apples with veggies like pumpkin or carrots. Avoid grapes, onions, and raisins. | Adds vitamins, fiber, and natural flavors. |
| Adding supplements/probiotics | Stir in dog-safe probiotics, fish oil, or joint supplements. | Supports digestion, immunity, and joint health. |
| Layered frozen treats | Pour different purees in layers and freeze each layer before adding the next. | Makes treats visually appealing and fun for your dog. |
With these variations, you can keep treats exciting, nutritious, and perfectly suited to your dog’s needs.
Storage and Serving Tips
Homemade frozen treats are tasty and healthy, but storing and serving them properly ensures they stay fresh and safe for your dog. These are some tips to get the most out of your frozen snacks:
- Freezer life: Most homemade frozen treats last 1–2 months in the freezer. Check for any changes in color or smell before serving.
- Best containers: Use airtight containers, silicone molds, or freezer-safe bags to keep treats fresh and prevent freezer burn.
- Serving size: Adjust portions based on your dog’s size and weight. Small breeds may only need one cube or bite, while larger breeds can enjoy two or three at a time.
- Thawing: Let treats thaw for a few minutes before serving, especially for puppies or senior dogs.
Proper storage and portioning keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Conclusion
Frozen treats are a simple and fun way to keep your dog cool, happy, and healthy, especially during warm weather. They help keep dogs hydrated, soothe teething puppies, and add nutrients with safe, healthy ingredients.
The best part is that making them at home lets you get creative-mix fruits, veggies, yogurt, or even a little peanut butter to find flavors your pup loves.
Remember to follow safe ingredient guidelines, watch portion sizes, and store treats properly to keep them fresh.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with layered treats or seasonal variations. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy licks.
Share your dog’s favorite frozen treat recipe in the comments-we’d love to see what cool creations you come up with!
