Healthy Frozen Dog Treats For Summer: Cool Snacks Your Pup Will Love
When temperatures climb, cooling down isn’t just for humans. Dogs feel the summer heat too, and nothing perks up their day quite like a frozen treat. I’ve found that making frozen dog treats at home is a fun and easy way to keep my dog happy, refreshed, and on the healthy side. With some simple, dog-safe ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can whip up icy bites that will have even the pickiest pup wagging for more. These recipes have earned tail wags from my own canine crew year after year.
What really wins me over is how customizable these treats are. You don’t need fancy equipment or unusual ingredients; just some freezer space and a few things already in your fridge. Plus, homemade goodies let you control what goes in the bowl, avoiding additives and questionable fillers found in many store bought treats. They’re a budget friendly way to spoil your dog all summer long. And if you’re looking for a project to enjoy with kids or visiting friends, this is a super simple, hands-on activity that’s sure to earn some wet-nosed thank-yous!
Why Frozen Dog Treats Are a Smart Choice
- No oven needed. Just mix, pour, and freeze. Perfect for hot days when turning on the oven sounds like too much work.
- Dogsafe and simple. Stick with a few whole food ingredients to keep things gentle on sensitive stomachs.
- Great for hydration. Many recipes use yogurt or broth, which add a little extra moisture to your dog’s day.
- Perfect for enrichment. Frozen treats take longer to eat, giving energetic pups something to focus on and enjoy.
Many dogs can become overheated or lethargic during the summer months, especially after an outdoor game of fetch or a walk in the sun. Offering a frozen snack not only cools them down but also encourages them to slow down and savor the food. Plus, making treats at home gives peace of mind—everything your dog eats is something you picked out and prepared yourself.
Ingredients For Easy Frozen Dog Treats
Here’s what I like to keep on hand for a variety of healthy, summer ready dog popsicles:
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (Greek yogurt is a good choice for more creaminess)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup diced strawberries (or blueberries)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol or added sugar)
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth (low sodium, no onions or garlic)
- 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional for crunch)
- Silicone ice cube molds or a small muffin tin
You can mix and match any dog friendly produce you have on hand. Fresh apple chunks (no seeds), unsweetened coconut flakes, or even small amounts of plain canned pumpkin can add a boost of vitamins and flavor. If your dog likes new flavors, trying a sprinkle of cinnamon or a pinch of turmeric is worth a shot. Just be sure to double-check ingredients against your dog’s sensitivities and your veterinarian’s guidance.
How To Make Frozen Dog Treats
1. Prep the Base
Mash the banana in a bowl until smooth. Add the yogurt and peanut butter, mixing until you get a thick, creamy base. If you’re using broth, pour it in slowly for a thinner consistency. I stick with yogurt for most recipes, but broth works great for dogs who can’t do dairy.
2. Add the Goodies
Fold in diced strawberries, blueberries, or grated carrots. Fruit adds a little sweetness and fiber, and the bright colors look great, even if dogs don’t really notice.
3. Fill the Molds
Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds. For extra challenge, drop a small treat or chunk of fruit into the center of each cavity. You can even use a paper cupcake liner inside a muffin tin for easier removal.
4. Freeze and Serve
Freeze for at least 3 hours, until everything is solid. Pop a treat out of the mold and hand it to your pup for an instant summer cooldown. For an added bonus, you can let the treat thaw for a couple of minutes for a softer texture, especially if your dog doesn’t like extra hard snacks.
Frozen Treat Recipe Ideas & Tips
- If your dog has food allergies, swap in safe fruits or veggies. Applesauce (unsweetened) and pumpkin purée are good standins.
- Broth only popsicles are a hit with dogs who love savory snacks. You can even tuck in bits of cooked chicken or green beans.
- Portion size matters. Use smaller molds for little dogs so you don’t overwhelm them.
- Avoid ingredients like xylitol, grapes, raisins, or chocolate, which are toxic to dogs, even in tiny amounts.
- For extra fun, stick a dog biscuit in each mold before freezing, so each treat has a crunchy “handle.”
If you’re ever in doubt about an ingredient, ask your vet or check trusted resources online. Remember, treats should only make up a small part of your dog’s diet—aim for moderation to keep things healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best ingredients for frozen dog treats?
The best ingredients are dog-safe whole foods like plain yogurt, mashed banana, unsweetened peanut butter (without xylitol), berries, carrots, and low-sodium broth. You can mix and match based on your dog’s preferences and dietary needs.
Other than fruit, what can I add to frozen dog treats?
Besides fruit, you can include grated veggies (like carrots or zucchini), unsweetened pumpkin purée, coconut flakes, or even a small amount of turmeric or cinnamon for added health benefits. Just make sure each ingredient is safe for dogs.
How often can I give my dog frozen treats?
Frozen treats should be given in moderation. They’re a great occasional reward or enrichment snack but shouldn’t replace balanced meals. For most dogs, one small treat a day during hot months is a safe and healthy amount.
Share the Summer Fun
Whipping up frozen dog treats is a quick way to bring a little joy (and relief) to your dog on even the hottest days. My dogs look forward to these every summer, and it’s a nice way for me to mix up their routine with something healthy and new. Homemade treats also make great gifts for fellow dog lovers. If you’re getting into treat making, try experimenting with different safe ingredients your pup might love. I’d love to hear what flavor combos your pup goes wild for, so drop your favorites in the comments and let’s keep our dogs cool, comfy, and wagging all summer long!