11 Hydrating Dog Friendly Shaved Ice Recipes for Hot Days

There’s no fruit that screams ‘summer’ quite like watermelon. It’s over 90% water, making it an absolute hydration superstar for your pup. Paired with a little bit of fresh mint, this slushie is not only delicious but also helps freshen your dog’s breath. It’s the quintessential poolside treat for your four-legged companion.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of seedless watermelon, cubed and frozen
• 1/4 cup of water
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the frozen watermelon cubes, water, and mint leaves into a high-powered blender.
2. Blend on high until the mixture reaches a smooth, slushy consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it’s just right.
3. Pour into your dog’s favorite bowl and serve immediately for a refreshing treat.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect treat for any dog on a hot day, especially those who aren’t great at drinking enough water. It’s simple, healthy, and a fantastic way to cool down after a long walk or a vigorous play session in the yard.

Want to give your dog a treat that feels a little luxurious? This Blueberry Coconut Cream Ice is the answer. Blueberries are a well-known superfood for dogs, packed with antioxidants, while coconut milk provides healthy fats for a shiny coat. The creamy texture and sweet-tart flavor make this a gourmet delight for your deserving pup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (from a can for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine the frozen blueberries, coconut milk, and ice cubes in your blender.
2. Pulse until the ice is crushed, then blend until smooth and creamy. The consistency should be like a thick sorbet.
3. Spoon the mixture into a bowl and watch your dog enjoy this creamy, dreamy treat.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an excellent choice for pet parents looking to give their dog an extra boost of nutrients. It’s especially good for dogs with dry skin or dull coats, thanks to the healthy fats in the coconut milk. A fantastic special-occasion treat!

You can’t go wrong with this classic canine combo! Peanut butter and banana is a flavor duo that most dogs find absolutely irresistible. This recipe transforms the beloved pairing into a chilly, creamy ‘snow’ that’s perfect for a hot afternoon. It’s packed with protein and potassium for a satisfying and energizing snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 large ripe banana, peeled, sliced, and frozen
• 2 tablespoons of all-natural, xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1/4 cup of water or plain yogurt
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Make sure your peanut butter does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Check the label carefully!
2. Place the frozen banana slices, peanut butter, water/yogurt, and ice cubes into a blender.
3. Blend until you have a thick, ice cream-like texture. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times.
4. Serve in a sturdy bowl or even a KONG toy for longer-lasting enjoyment.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for picky eaters or as a high-value reward after a training session. Its thick texture also makes it ideal for stuffing into enrichment toys to keep your dog busy and cool.

Looking for a veggie-packed option? This Carrot & Ginger Zinger is a unique and healthy choice. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene for good vision, while ginger is a fantastic natural remedy for soothing upset stomachs. This savory-sweet slush has a beautiful orange color and a zesty flavor that will intrigue your pup’s palate.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of chopped carrots, steamed or boiled until tender, then cooled
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine the cooled, cooked carrots, grated ginger, water or broth, and ice cubes in a blender.
2. Blend until completely smooth. The cooked carrots help create a creamy texture without any dairy.
3. Pour into a bowl and serve. This is a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your dog’s diet.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect shaved ice for health-conscious pet owners or for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s a fantastic, low-calorie way to provide a refreshing treat that also supports digestive health.

A classic combination that’s as pretty as it is tasty! The Strawberry & Yogurt Swirl is like a healthy frozen yogurt for your dog. Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C, and they even contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth. The plain, unsweetened yogurt adds a dose of probiotics for gut health, creating a well-rounded and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt (ensure it has no artificial sweeteners)
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the frozen strawberries, yogurt, and water.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth but still thick. If you want more of a ‘swirl’ effect, blend half the strawberries with water first, pour some into the bowl, then add yogurt to the blender for the rest and pour it on top.
3. Serve this beautiful pink treat to your very lucky pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an excellent all-arounder treat that offers both great taste and health benefits. It’s particularly good for dogs who could use a little digestive support, as long as they can tolerate dairy. For those who can’t, coconut yogurt is a great substitute.

This ‘green machine’ is the ultimate cool-down treat. Cucumber is incredibly hydrating (it’s about 96% water!) and low in calories, making it a guilt-free snack. Parsley is a well-known natural breath freshener. Together, they create a light, crisp, and incredibly refreshing shaved ice that’s perfect for a post-walk chill session.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
• A small handful of fresh parsley
• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Place the chopped cucumber, parsley, water, and ice into a blender.
2. Blend on high until it forms a light, airy, and pale green slush.
3. Serve immediately. This treat is so light, you can be a little more generous with the portion size.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ideal choice for dogs who are watching their weight or for pet parents who want a super-hydrating, low-calorie option. It’s also a fantastic pick if your dog’s breath could use a little freshening up!

Who says pumpkin spice is just for the fall? Pumpkin is a miracle food for dogs, known for its ability to aid in both constipation and diarrhea by regulating the digestive system. A little sprinkle of cinnamon adds a delicious flavor and has anti-inflammatory properties. This frosty treat is a tummy-soothing delight any time of year.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup 100% pure pumpkin purée (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 cup water or plain yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Ensure you are using 100% pure pumpkin purée, as pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices that are harmful to dogs.
2. Combine the pumpkin purée, water or yogurt, cinnamon, and ice in a blender.
3. Blend until smooth and frosty. The consistency will be thick and creamy.
4. Serve to your pup for a gut-friendly goodie.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An absolute must-have recipe for any dog owner. It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who experience occasional digestive upset. It’s a comforting, healthy, and delicious way to offer a cool treat.

Not all dogs have a sweet tooth! For the pup who prefers savory over sweet, this Bone Broth ‘Meaty’ Ice is a game-changer. Bone broth is rich in minerals and collagen, which are excellent for joint health. This simple, savory shaved ice is a fantastic way to rehydrate and replenish electrolytes after a long, hot day of play.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of dog-safe bone broth (no onions, garlic, or high sodium)
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. It’s crucial to use a bone broth made specifically for dogs or a homemade version with no harmful ingredients. Check labels for onion and garlic powder, which are toxic.
2. Pour the bone broth and ice cubes into a blender.
3. Blend until you get a chunky, icy slush.
4. Serve this savory delight to your very happy carnivore.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the top choice for senior dogs, active dogs, or any pup who would rather have a meaty treat than a sweet one. It’s a powerhouse of hydration and joint support, making it as functional as it is delicious.

An apple a day keeps the vet away! This simple and classic flavor combination is a wonderful treat for your furry friend. Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Combined with the warmth of cinnamon, this shaved ice tastes like a healthy apple pie in a bowl. Just be absolutely sure to remove all seeds and the core, as apple seeds contain cyanide.

Ingredients:

• 1 apple, cored, seeded, and chopped (any variety works!)
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. It is CRITICAL to remove all seeds and the core from the apple before blending.
2. Place the chopped apple, water, cinnamon, and ice into the blender.
3. Blend until smooth. If you want a chunkier texture, you can blend less.
4. Serve this wholesome and fibrous treat to your pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great, simple, and healthy option for most dogs. It’s particularly good for dogs who need a little extra fiber in their diet. The familiar, comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon are often a big hit.

Bring a taste of the tropics to your dog’s bowl! Mangoes are a safe and sweet treat for dogs, loaded with vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Paired with the creaminess of yogurt or coconut milk, this Mango Tango Twist is a vibrant, sunny, and delicious shaved ice that’s packed with nutritional benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or unsweetened coconut milk
• A splash of water, if needed

Instructions:

1. Make sure the mango is completely peeled and the hard pit is removed before freezing and blending.
2. Combine the frozen mango and yogurt/coconut milk in a blender.
3. Blend until it reaches a thick, sorbet-like consistency. Add a little water if your blender is struggling.
4. Serve this tropical delight and watch your dog do the tango!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a fantastic choice for a fun, special occasion treat. Its high vitamin content makes it a healthy indulgence, but due to the sugar content, it’s best reserved for an occasional reward rather than a daily snack.

Sometimes, the best solution is the simplest one. If you’re short on time or ingredients, you can still give your dog a cooling treat. This recipe is less of a ‘recipe’ and more of a quick hack. Simply crushing ice and sprinkling it over your dog’s regular kibble can make mealtime more exciting and hydrating on a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 cups of ice cubes
• A sprinkle of your dog’s favorite kibble or a few small treats

Instructions:

1. Place ice cubes in a blender and pulse until they are crushed into small, snow-like pieces. Alternatively, you can place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
2. Spoon the crushed ice over your dog’s regular meal.
3. Sprinkle a little extra kibble or a few crumbled treats on top to entice them.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect solution for busy pet parents or for when you’ve run out of fresh fruit. It’s a no-fuss way to add some cooling hydration and novelty to your dog’s daily routine, especially for dogs who are reluctant to drink water.

Making these treats is a blast, but it’s important to keep a few safety and quality tips in mind. Think of this as your cheat sheet to becoming a master shaved ice chef for your canine companion.

Choosing Dog-Safe Ingredients

The golden rule is to know what’s safe and what’s not. Stick to whole foods and always check labels.

• Safe Fruits: Watermelon, blueberries, strawberries, bananas, apples (no seeds/core), mango (no pit/skin), cucumber, pumpkin.
• Safe Veggies: Carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes (cooked).
• Safe Liquids: Water, dog-safe bone broth, plain unsweetened yogurt, unsweetened coconut milk.
• NEVER Use: Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, macadamia nuts, anything with artificial sweeteners (especially XYLITOL), alcohol, or caffeine. Human snow cone syrups are a huge no-no.

The Right Equipment

You don’t need fancy gear to get started. A good blender is your best friend here. A high-powered blender will turn frozen fruit and ice into snow in seconds. If you don’t have one, you can also crush ice in a bag with a rolling pin and mix it with puréed ingredients. A dedicated shaved ice machine works too, but it’s not a necessity.

Serving Suggestions & Portion Control

Remember, these are treats! They should only make up a small part of your dog’s balanced diet (a general rule is no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake).

• Portion Size: For a medium-sized dog, a few spoonfuls or about 1/4 to 1/2 a cup is plenty. Adjust accordingly for smaller or larger breeds.
• Serving Ideas: Serve in a bowl, or for extra fun and mental stimulation, stuff the mixture into a KONG or other puzzle toy and freeze it. This makes the treat last longer and prevents your dog from eating it too quickly, which can cause brain freeze!
• When to Serve: These are perfect after a walk, during a sunny afternoon in the yard, or anytime your pup needs to cool down and rehydrate.

Can I use regular snow cone syrup for my dog?

Absolutely not. Human snow cone syrups are loaded with sugar, artificial colors, and preservatives. Worst of all, many ‘sugar-free’ versions contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs and can be fatal even in small amounts. Always stick to natural, dog-safe ingredients like the ones in these recipes.

How often can I give my dog these shaved ice treats?

Think of these as a special dessert, not a daily meal. Giving one of these treats a few times a week during hot weather is perfectly fine for most healthy dogs. However, always consider the calorie and sugar content (even natural sugar) and factor it into your dog’s overall diet to prevent weight gain. When in doubt, ask your vet!

My dog is lactose intolerant. What can I use instead of yogurt?

That’s a great question! Many dogs have trouble digesting dairy. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing substitutes. You can use unsweetened coconut milk (the kind in a can works great for creaminess), unsweetened almond milk (make sure it’s xylitol-free), or simply use water or dog-safe bone broth as your liquid base. You’ll still get a fantastic, frosty treat without the tummy upset.

Can I make these recipes in advance?

Yes, you can! This is a great way to save time. You can blend a larger batch of any of these recipes and pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Pop them in the freezer, and you’ll have perfectly portioned, ready-to-serve frosty pucks for your pup. You can serve them frozen solid for a longer-lasting treat or pop a few cubes back in the blender for a quick slushie anytime.