Introduction
On a hot day, nothing beats a cold treat—and that goes for your dog, too! From fruity pops to creamy yogurt bites, frozen dog treat recipes are a fun way to help pets stay cool, hydrated, and happy. Plus, these DIY snacks are much healthier (and cheaper) than most store-bought options, and you can make them in minutes using safe, simple ingredients right from your kitchen.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making frozen dog treats—even if you’ve never tried before!
Why Give Your Pup Frozen Dog Treats?
- Cooling relief: Perfect for summertime or after playtime.
- Hydration boost: Many recipes include water or fruit, which helps on hot days.
- Digestive health: Ingredients like yogurt and pumpkin can help tummy troubles.
- Allergy control: Homemade treats mean you control every ingredient.
Basic Ingredients Checklist
To make most frozen dog treats, you’ll need:
- Plain yogurt (unsweetened, no xylitol)
- Peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol)
- Pumpkin puree (plain, not pumpkin pie filling)
- Banana, blueberries, or watermelon (seedless)
- Cooked sweet potato
- Chicken or beef broth (low sodium, no onions/garlic)
- Silicone molds, ice cube trays, or muffin tins
Tip: Always check that every ingredient is dog-safe.
3 Easy Frozen Dog Treat Recipes
1. Peanut Butter Banana Pops
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
Instructions:
- Mash the banana in a bowl.
- Mix in yogurt and peanut butter until smooth.
- Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
- Freeze for 3–4 hours or until solid.
- Pop one out for your pup and store the rest in an airtight container in the freezer.
2. Berry Bliss Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup blueberries or chopped strawberries
- 1 cup plain yogurt
Instructions:
- Blend fruit and yogurt together.
- Pour mixture into molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for 2–3 hours.
- Serve as a refreshing, antioxidant-packed snack!
3. Savory Chicken Broth Cubes
Great for dogs who prefer meaty flavors!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (ensure it has no onions, garlic, or extra salt)
- A few small pieces of cooked chicken (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour broth into an ice cube tray.
- Add 1 or 2 small bites of chicken to each slot if you like.
- Freeze until solid.
- Pop out a cube on a hot day—watch your dog go wild for it!
Helpful Tips for Making (and Serving) Frozen Dog Treats
- Introduce slowly: If your dog is new to frozen treats, start with small amounts.
- Size matters: For toy breeds, make smaller treats to prevent choking.
- Supervise: Watch your pup enjoy their treat the first time to ensure they chew thoroughly.
- Stay clean: Serve on a mat or outside for less mess!
Safe Ingredients & What to Avoid
Dog-Safe:
- Bananas
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- Apples (no seeds)
- Pumpkin puree
- Peanut butter (NO xylitol)
- Plain yogurt
To AVOID:
- Grapes or raisins
- Xylitol (in peanut butter, yogurt, or treats)
- Chocolate
- Macadamia nuts
- Onion or garlic
When in doubt, check with your vet!
Storage
Keep treats in an airtight bag or container in the freezer. Most homemade frozen dog treats last 2–3 weeks.
FAQs: Frozen Dog Treats
Q: How often can I give my dog frozen treats?A: As an occasional snack, a few times per week is generally safe. Always factor in your dog’s diet and calorie needs.
Q: Can I use a different kind of yogurt?A: Yes, as long as it’s unsweetened and doesn’t have xylitol or artificial sweeteners.
Q: Are these safe for puppies?A: Most frozen dog treats are fine for puppies after they’re weaned, but offer smaller portions and always supervise.
Q: My dog is lactose intolerant—what can I use instead of yogurt?A: Try coconut milk, mashed banana with water, or pureed pumpkin.
Q: Can I make these treats ahead of time?A: Absolutely! Make a big batch, keep them in the freezer, and serve all summer long.
Conclusion
Homemade frozen dog treat recipes are the ultimate way to beat the heat and spoil your pup—without worrying about strange ingredients or added sugars. Best of all, you can adjust them for allergies, taste preferences, and fun shapes. Grab your molds, get creative, and see your dog’s tail wag with every cold, tasty bite!
