Summer is the best time for outdoor adventures with your furry friend, but the heat can take a toll on your dog. Just like us, dogs need a way to stay cool when temperatures soar. One of my favorite ways to help my pup beat the heat is by making frozen treats. They’re refreshing, easy to make, and packed with ingredients your dog will love. Plus, you get the bonus of knowing exactly what’s going into their snacks.
In this article, I’ll share some easy and creative frozen pet treat recipes that are perfect for summer. Whether you’re looking for something quick or a fun project to do with your kids, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Peanut Butter and Banana Pops
If your dog loves peanut butter as much as mine does, this treat is a must-try. The creamy peanut butter and naturally sweet banana make this a fan favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/4 cup of unsalted peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1/2 cup of plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
Instructions:
- Mash the banana in a bowl until smooth.
- Mix in the peanut butter and yogurt until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
Whenever I make these, my dog Max comes running as soon as I open the freezer. They’re the perfect cool-down treat after a long walk.
2. Watermelon Ice Cubes
Watermelon is hydrating, low in calories, and full of vitamins. This simple recipe takes just a few minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of seedless watermelon, pureed
Instructions:
- Cut the watermelon into chunks and remove any seeds.
- Blend the watermelon until smooth.
- Pour the puree into an ice cube tray and freeze for 2-3 hours.
These cubes are great as-is or can be added to your dog’s water bowl for a refreshing twist.
3. Frozen Broth Treats
For dogs who prefer savory over sweet, frozen broth treats are a game-changer. They’re simple, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- Optional: small pieces of cooked chicken or carrots
Instructions:
- Pour the broth into an ice cube tray or silicone mold.
- If you’d like, add a small piece of chicken or carrot to each cube.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours.
I love using these to keep Max entertained on hot afternoons. He happily gnaws on a broth cube for minutes, savoring every bite.
4. Berry Yogurt Bites
These treats combine the tanginess of yogurt with the natural sweetness of berries. They’re not only tasty but also full of antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/4 cup of blueberries
- 1/4 cup of strawberries, chopped
Instructions:
- Mix the yogurt and berries in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 3 hours.
Whenever I’m making these, I always keep a few for myself—they’re that good!
5. Carrot and Apple Freezies
This recipe is perfect if you’re looking for something light and refreshing. Carrots and apples add a natural crunch and sweetness your dog will love.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup of grated carrots
- 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
- Mix the applesauce, carrots, and water in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for 3-4 hours.
These treats are great for dogs who need to stay hydrated during playtime.
6. Pumpkin Pup Pops
Pumpkin isn’t just for fall—it’s a year-round superfood that supports digestion. This recipe is simple and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup of plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the pumpkin, yogurt, and honey in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture into molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 3 hours.
Max loves these after a day at the dog park. They’re creamy and satisfying.
7. Frozen Peanut Butter Kong
Sometimes you need a treat that keeps your dog busy. A frozen peanut butter Kong is a lifesaver on busy days.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/4 cup of plain yogurt
Instructions:
- Mix the peanut butter and yogurt together.
- Stuff the mixture into a Kong toy.
- Freeze for 4-6 hours.
This is my go-to treat when I need to keep Max occupied while I’m working. It’s a great combination of mental stimulation and cooling relief.
8. Frozen Veggie Medley
Vegetables like peas and green beans are low-calorie and hydrating. This recipe is as simple as it gets.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of peas
- 1/2 cup of green beans
- Water
Instructions:
- Place the peas and green beans into an ice cube tray.
- Fill the tray with water.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours.
These make a great crunchy snack for dogs who enjoy their veggies.
9. Coconut and Berry Pops
Coconut milk is a fun and flavorful base for frozen treats. Paired with berries, it’s a tropical delight your dog will love.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened coconut milk
- 1/4 cup of mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
Instructions:
- Mix the coconut milk and berries in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for 3-4 hours.
Max always licks his bowl clean when I give him one of these pops.
10. DIY Frozen Dog Smoothie
If you’re feeling creative, try blending your own smoothie mix for your pup. You can use a variety of dog-safe fruits and veggies.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of plain yogurt
- 1/2 banana
- 1/4 cup of spinach
- 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
- Blend all the ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the smoothie into molds or freeze it in a Kong toy.
- Let it freeze for 4 hours.
This treat is perfect for dogs who enjoy a little variety in their snacks.
Final Thoughts
Making frozen treats for your dog is a fun and rewarding way to show them some extra love during the summer months. Not only do these recipes help keep your dog cool, but they’re also a healthier alternative to store-bought treats. Plus, the process of making them is a great bonding activity for you and your furry friend.
Try out a few of these recipes and see which ones your dog loves the most. And don’t forget to snap a photo of your pup enjoying their frozen snack—it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face!