9 DIY Dog Ice Treats Too Delicious & Healthy (Easy To Make)
As someone who shares my home with a lively bunch of pets—dogs, cats, and even rabbits—finding ways to keep everyone cool and entertained during hot days can be a fun challenge. One thing my dogs absolutely love are homemade ice treats! Not only do they help keep my dogs cool, but they’re also an easy way to sneak in some healthy ingredients while keeping things budget-friendly.
The best part? These treats are super simple to make, customizable, and a fun way to bond with your furry friends. So, if you’re as excited as I am to whip up some DIY dog ice treats, let’s dive right into some fun and easy ideas that will have your dog begging for more!
DIY Dog Ice Treats: Step by Step
Materials Needed
Before we jump into the different recipes, let’s gather the basics. Most of these ingredients and tools are likely already in your kitchen or easy to grab at the store:
- Ice cube trays or silicone molds: $5–$10
- Blender or food processor: Already have this!
- Dog-friendly fruits (bananas, strawberries, blueberries, etc.): $3–$5
- Plain yogurt (unsweetened, no additives): $2–$3
- Peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol): $3–$5
- Chicken or beef broth (low sodium): $2–$3
- Pumpkin puree (100% pumpkin): $2–$3
- Water or coconut water: Free to $2
With all of these simple ingredients, you can make a variety of refreshing ice treats for less than $10 per batch! Now, let’s walk through the process.
Phase 1: Prepping the Ingredients
Depending on the recipe, you may need to blend or mash ingredients like fruit or peanut butter. For some treats, you’ll want to puree everything together to get a smooth mixture, while others might work better with chunks of fruit for texture. Once your ingredients are ready, pour them into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Pop them in the freezer for a few hours, and soon your dog will have cool treats to enjoy!
8 Easy DIY Dog Ice Treat Ideas & Recipes
Now that you have the basics down, let’s explore some easy, fun, and delicious ice treat recipes for your dog. These treats are all customizable, budget-friendly, and perfect for summer days.
1. Peanut Butter & Banana Frozen Bites
This classic combo is always a hit with my dogs! Blend 1 ripe banana with 2 tablespoons of dog-safe peanut butter (make sure it’s free of xylitol). You can add a little water if needed to thin out the mixture. Pour it into ice cube trays or molds and freeze for a few hours.
The rich peanut butter flavor combined with the sweetness of the banana makes these treats irresistible. Plus, they’re packed with potassium and healthy fats. The cost for these is around $3–$5 depending on the size of the batch, making them a delicious and affordable snack.
2. Chicken Broth Pupsicles
For dogs who prefer savory over sweet, chicken broth pupsicles are a great option. Use low-sodium chicken broth and pour it directly into an ice cube tray. For extra fun, toss in small dog-friendly veggies like carrots or peas before freezing.
These treats are hydrating and packed with flavor. They cost about $2–$3 to make and are a great way to use up leftover broth. It’s a refreshing change from typical sweet treats, especially for dogs with a more savory palate.
3. Blueberry & Yogurt Frozen Treats
Blueberries are a superfood for dogs, loaded with antioxidants. Blend a handful of blueberries with 1 cup of plain yogurt. If the yogurt is too thick, add a little water to smooth it out. Pour the mixture into molds and freeze.
These treats are great for boosting your dog’s immune system, and the creamy texture is a hit! Plus, the vibrant purple color makes them look fun and appetizing. These treats cost around $3–$4 to make and are both delicious and healthy.
4. Pumpkin & Coconut Water Cubes
Pumpkin is excellent for a dog’s digestion, and coconut water is super hydrating. Mix 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree with 1/2 cup of coconut water. Pour the mixture into trays and freeze.
These treats are perfect for dogs who might need a little help with their digestive health while staying hydrated. At around $4 to make, these are a budget-friendly option that offers health benefits too.
5. Apple & Carrot Ice Cubes
For a crunchy treat, try apple and carrot ice cubes. Dice an apple (remove seeds) and carrots into small chunks. Place the chunks in an ice cube tray and fill the rest with water or unsweetened apple juice. Freeze until solid.
These treats are full of fiber and vitamins, and they offer a satisfying crunch as they melt. They cost about $3 to make and are a simple, refreshing option for a hot day.
6. Strawberry & Yogurt Swirls
Strawberries are another great fruit for dogs. Mash a few strawberries and layer them with plain yogurt in an ice cube tray or mold. For a fun swirl effect, use a toothpick to mix the layers slightly before freezing.
The tartness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the creamy yogurt. These treats cost around $4 and are sure to be a hit with any fruit-loving dog.
7. Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pops
For a fall-inspired treat, combine 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter. Blend them together with a little water to thin it out if needed. Pour the mixture into molds and freeze.
These treats are perfect for dogs who love the rich flavor of peanut butter but also need some added fiber from the pumpkin. The cost is about $3–$4, and they’re great for seasonal enjoyment or all-year-round fun.
8. Frozen Watermelon Bites
Watermelon is hydrating and refreshing for dogs, making it a perfect summer treat. Simply cut watermelon into bite-sized pieces (remove the seeds) and place them in the freezer. For an extra twist, you can puree the watermelon and freeze it in molds.
Watermelon bites are super simple, hydrating, and perfect for those really hot days. The cost is minimal—about $2 for a small watermelon—and they’re a great treat to keep in the freezer all summer long.
FAQs
1. Are these ice treats safe for all dogs?
Yes, as long as your dog doesn’t have any allergies to the ingredients used, these ice treats are safe. Always check with your vet if you’re introducing new foods, especially if your dog has any dietary sensitivities or health concerns.
2. How often can I give my dog ice treats?
Ice treats are a fun and healthy way to cool your dog down, but moderation is key. One or two treats per day during hot weather is usually plenty, depending on the size of the treat and your dog’s dietary needs.
3. Can I use these ice treat recipes for other pets, like cats or rabbits?
Yes! Many of these recipes can be adapted for other pets. For cats, stick with fruit-based treats like frozen watermelon or pureed fruit. For rabbits, avoid any treats with peanut butter or dairy and focus on fruit and veggie-based options like apple or carrot cubes.
4. How long do these ice treats last in the freezer?
Most DIY dog ice treats will last up to two months in the freezer if stored in an airtight container. Just be sure to label them, so you know what’s inside and when you made them!
Making DIY dog ice treats is not only a fun and simple project but also a great way to keep your dog cool and healthy during hot weather. Whether you choose a savory chicken broth popsicle or a fruity yogurt swirl, these recipes are easy to customize and budget-friendly. So grab your ingredients, freeze up some treats, and enjoy the look of pure joy on your dog’s face as they cool down with these delicious and refreshing snacks!
