When the sun’s blazing and your pooch is panting, nothing beats a cooling treat to help them stay comfortable and hydrated. While commercial frozen dog treats are readily available, making your own at home is easy, cost-effective, and allows you to control exactly what your dog is consuming. Whether you’re looking for a fruity refresher or a crunchy chew, the team here at Perfect Pooches have rounded up some tasty and dog-safe DIY recipes your four-legged friend will love.
Are Frozen Dog Treats Good For Dogs?
Absolutely – frozen dog treats can be a healthy and enjoyable way to help regulate your dog’s body temperature on warm days. They’re especially helpful for breeds with thick coats or flat faces, who may struggle more with the heat. When made with the right ingredients, they also provide a nutritional boost, hydration, and even a bit of mental stimulation.
Of course, like any treat, frozen goodies should be fed in moderation and alongside a balanced diet. Be mindful of your dog’s sensitivities or allergies, and avoid ingredients like artificial sweeteners, added salt, and dairy (unless tolerated). All of the recipes below are made with simple, natural ingredients that are generally safe for most dogs – but always check with your vet if you’re unsure, or contact our team for some additional tips!
Peanut Butter and Jam Cubes
You Will Need:
- 2 tablespoons xylitol-free peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- Splash of water
How To Make:
Blend the strawberries and a splash of water to create a purée. Spoon a small amount of peanut butter into the bottom of each ice cube mould, then top with the strawberry purée. Freeze for a minimum of 3–4 hours or until fully solid. These treats have none of the nasties and are a great way to keep your dog cool in the summer – just be sure the peanut butter is dog-safe and contains no artificial sweeteners.
Cucumber Crunchies
You Will Need:
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for breath-freshening)
How To Make:
Pop the cucumber chunks and yoghurt into a blender, along with a couple of mint leaves (if using). Blitz until smooth, then pour the mixture into bone-shaped silicone moulds or a regular ice cube tray. Freeze until solid. These light and refreshing treats are perfect after a sunny garden play session and can help keep your dog’s breath fresher.
Frozen Apple and Carrot Paws
You Will Need:
- 1 apple (core removed, peeled and chopped)
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- ½ cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
How To Make:
Add the chopped apple, grated carrot, and water or broth to a blender and pulse until smooth. Pour into silicone paw-print moulds (or standard ice cube trays) and freeze for several hours. These frozen bites are both cooling and a little crunchy – ideal for teething puppies or dogs who love to chew.
Watermelon Ice Cream
You Will Need:
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, chopped
- ½ banana
- ¼ cup plain Greek yoghurt
How To Make:
Blend the watermelon, banana, and yoghurt until creamy. Pour into ice lolly moulds or small containers and freeze until firm. This fruity frozen “ice cream” is refreshing and packed with hydration. Just remember to use seedless watermelon and avoid feeding your dog the rind, which can upset their tummy.
Fruity Ice Licks
You Will Need:
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1 small apple, chopped
- 1 cup cold water
How To Make:
Mix the fruit and water in a bowl, then pour into a muffin tin or large ice cube tray. Pop in the freezer until set. For a longer-lasting challenge, you can freeze the mixture in a food-safe container with a toy in the middle – your dog will lick and work their way through the ice to get to the surprise inside. These are great for garden play or crate downtime on hot days.
Contact Perfect Pooches now for more information
Whether you’re trying new treats, adjusting your dog’s diet, or simply keeping them happy through the seasons, our team at Perfect Pooches is here to help. We’re more than just dog breeders – we’re a community of passionate dog lovers who know the importance of both health and happiness in every wagging tail. From safe grooming for the summer months to advice on dog-friendly nutrition, we’re always happy to assist.
If you’d like more cooling recipe tips or want to discuss your pup’s needs, just give us a call now! Or if you’re new to dog ownership or looking for your next companion, don’t forget to explore our cockapoo puppies page for available litters.