Our Favorite DIY Summer Treats for Your Dog

Summer is the perfect time to treat your dog to some refreshing and healthy homemade snacks. Making your own dog treats ensures that they are free from harmful ingredients and tailored to your pup's tastes and dietary needs. Check out some of our favorite, easy and safe DIY summer treats for your pup.

1. Frozen Yogurt and Berry Bites

These frozen bites are a refreshing and nutritious treat for your dog on hot summer days. They are simple to make and packed with antioxidants and probiotics.

Ingredients:

• Plain, unsweetened yogurt (make sure it does not contain xylitol)
• Fresh or frozen blueberries and strawberries

Instructions:

1. Blend the yogurt and berries until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze for a few hours or until solid.
4. Pop the treats out of the molds and store them in the freezer.

Benefits:

• Yogurt provides probiotics that support your dog’s digestive health.
• Berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Pops

These simple and delicious popsicles are sure to be a hit with your dog. Make sure to use peanut butter that does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Blend the banana, yogurt, and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze until solid.
4. Store the popsicles in the freezer and serve them on hot days.

Benefits:

• Bananas are a good source of vitamins and minerals.
• Peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein.

3. Watermelon Ice Cubes

Watermelon is a hydrating and refreshing fruit that dogs can safely enjoy in moderation. These simple watermelon ice cubes are perfect for cooling your dog down.

Ingredients:

• Seedless watermelon

Instructions:

1. Cut the watermelon into small chunks and remove any seeds.
2. Blend the watermelon until smooth.
3. Pour the blended watermelon into ice cube trays.
4. Freeze until solid.
5. Serve the watermelon cubes as a cool, hydrating treat.

Benefits:

• Watermelon is hydrating and low in calories.
• It provides vitamins A, B6, and C.

4. Chicken Broth Popsicles

These savory popsicles are a great way to provide hydration and a delicious treat for your dog.

Ingredients:

• Low-sodium chicken broth (make sure it does not contain onions or garlic)

Instructions:

1. Pour the chicken broth into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
2. Freeze until solid.
3. Store the popsicles in the freezer and serve them on hot days.

Benefits:

• Chicken broth provides hydration and a tasty treat.
• It's a good source of protein and minerals.

5. Pumpkin and Coconut Oil Treats

These treats are not only tasty but also beneficial for your dog's skin and coat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened and pure)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

Instructions:

1. Mix the pumpkin and melted coconut oil together.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze until solid.
4. Store the treats in the freezer and serve them cold.

Benefits:

• Pumpkin is high in fiber and helps with digestion.
• Coconut oil supports a healthy skin and coat.

Our Final Thoughts

Making homemade summer treats for your dog is a fun and rewarding way to keep them cool and healthy during the hot months. These recipes are easy to make and contain ingredients that are safe and nutritious for dogs. Remember to introduce new treats gradually and in moderation to ensure your dog tolerates them well.