Easy to make Frozen Dog Treats
As the temperature rises, your canine companion deserves a refreshing way to stay cool. Frozen dog treats are simple to make, often with just one or two ingredient and help keep dogs cool, hydrated, and happy during the summer months.
It’s important to keep your dog cool during the summer months to prevent heatstroke, here is what to do if you think your dog is suffering with heatstroke.
Why Frozen Treats Are Great for Dogs
- Cooling effect: Frozen treats help lower your dog’s body temperature.
- Hydration boost: Many recipes include fruits or liquids that contribute to hydration.
- Mental stimulation: Licking and chewing frozen treats can provide enrichment and entertainment.
- Customisable: You can tailor ingredients to suit your dog’s dietary needs or preferences.
Are Frozen Treats Safe for Dogs?
Yes, when made with dog-safe ingredients, frozen dog treats are not only safe but beneficial. Always:
- Use ingredients free from xylitol, artificial sweeteners, or additives.
- Introduce new treats gradually and in moderation.
- Consult your vet if your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions.
What do dogs like frozen?
Dogs tend to enjoy frozen treats that have a meaty or fruity flavour. Many dogs like the taste of frozen chicken or beef broth, as well as frozen fruits like bananas, strawberries, and watermelon. Peanut butter is also a favourite among many dogs! Experiment with different ingredients to see what your dog likes best but always ensure that the ingredients are safe and suitable for their dietary needs.
Homemade Frozen Dog Treat Recipes
Each recipe below is packed with flavour and made with healthy, pup-approved ingredients. These homemade frozen dog treats are simple, delicious, and perfect for hot summer days.
1. Peanut Butter and Jam Cubes
Ingredients
- A handful of strawberries
- Water
- 1 tbsp dog-safe peanut butter
Instructions
- Blend strawberries with a splash of water.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze.
- Once frozen, top each cube with a small blob of peanut butter.
- Serve and watch your dog enjoy!
2. Banana and Peanut Butter Frozen Nibbles
Ingredients
- 150ml unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tbsp dog-safe peanut butter
- 1 ripe banana
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours.
3. Watermelon Frozen Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 10 slices watermelon (skin and seeds removed)
- Optional: 1–2 dog biscuits per cube
Instructions
- Blend watermelon until smooth.
- Pour into ice cube trays and drop a treat into each compartment.
- Freeze for around 6 hours.
4. Frozen Yoghurt Dipped Strawberries
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries
- Fat-free, natural yoghurt
Instructions
- Cut off the green tops of the strawberries.
- Dip each one in yoghurt.
- Place on greaseproof paper and freeze.
5. Frozen Carrot and Apple Bites
Ingredients
- 1 peeled carrot
- 1 cored apple (no seeds)
- Water
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients into a purée.
- Spoon into moulds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze until solid.
6. Blueberry Coconut Yogurt Pops
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh blueberries
- ½ cup plain coconut yoghurt (unsweetened)
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Blend yoghurt and honey, then gently stir in blueberries.
- Spoon into silicone moulds and freeze overnight.
7. Chicken Broth Ice Cubes
Ingredients
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Optional: small pieces of cooked chicken
Instructions
- Pour broth into trays.
- Add small pieces of chicken if desired.
- Freeze and serve as cooling bites.
8. Frozen Cheese and Apple Bites
Ingredients
- ½ apple, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp cottage cheese
Instructions
- Mix apple and cottage cheese together.
- Spoon into moulds or trays.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours.
9. Coconut Banana Bliss Cubes
Ingredients
- 1 banana
- 100ml coconut water
Instructions
- Blend banana and coconut water.
- Pour into trays or silicone moulds.
- Freeze for 4–6 hours.
10. Sweet Potato and Yoghurt Pupsicles
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked, mashed sweet potato
- ½ cup plain natural yoghurt
Instructions
- Mix ingredients until smooth.
- Spoon into moulds.
- Freeze until firm.
Tips for Safe Frozen Treats
- Always use xylitol-free peanut butter.
- Avoid grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, and anything toxic to dogs.
- Supervise your dog while they’re enjoying frozen treats, especially if given whole ice cubes.
- For puppies, use smaller portions and ensure the ingredients are extra gentle on tummies.
FAQs
What ingredients are best for dog treats?
Dog safe peanut butter, bananas, apples, carrots, yoghurt, coconut water, pumpkin, and oats are all great options.
What is the healthiest homemade treat for a dog?
Simple frozen carrot and apple purée cubes are hydrating, low-calorie, and packed with vitamins.
What is doggy ice cream made from?
Dog ice cream is typically made with yoghurt, pumpkin, banana, or coconut milk as a base (no sugar or artificial ingredients.)
Is it okay to give my dog normal ice cream?
No. Human ice cream usually contains sugar, lactose, and sometimes toxic ingredients like xylitol or chocolate.
Does ice help a dog’s stomach?
Crushed ice or small frozen treats can soothe a hot or mildly upset stomach but check with a vet for ongoing issues.
What not to put in homemade dog treats?
Avoid xylitol, artificial sweeteners, salt, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, or overly processed foods.
Can I give my dog ice cubes for dehydration?
Yes, ice cubes or frozen fruit-infused water cubes can help. Just ensure your dog doesn’t chew large chunks aggressively.
Please note:
Barking Mad, the UK’s leading home dog boarding provider, assumes no liability for the content of this page. This advice is only intended as a guide and is not a substitute for a proper consultation with a vet. Please contact your local veterinary practice for advice or treatment about your dog’s diet or if you are worried about your pet’s health – even if they are closed, they’ll always have an emergency out of hours service available.
