21 Refreshing Dog Smoothie Cubes for Hot Summer Days

Let’s start with a timeless classic that dogs universally adore. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana is a guaranteed tail-wagger. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and potassium, making it a great energy-boosting treat after a long walk or a game of fetch.

Recipe: Blend 1 ripe banana, 2 tablespoons of xylitol-free peanut butter, and 1/2 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt until smooth. Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze for at least 4 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Perfect for a post-playtime reward or for pups who need a little extra protein in their diet. A definite crowd-pleaser!

This pretty-in-pink treat is like a little scoop of ice cream for your pup. Strawberries are full of antioxidants and vitamin C, while plain yogurt provides a healthy dose of probiotics for gut health. It’s a light, refreshing, and gut-friendly option for a warm afternoon.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries with 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt. A splash of water can be added if the mixture is too thick. Pour into trays and freeze solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent choice for health-conscious pet owners looking to give their dogs a vitamin and probiotic boost.

Nothing says summer like fresh watermelon! Since it’s over 90% water, it’s one of the most hydrating fruits you can offer your dog. A touch of fresh mint adds a burst of freshness and can even help combat doggy breath. This is the ultimate cooldown cube for a scorching day.

Recipe: Remove the seeds and rind from 2 cups of watermelon. Blend with a few fresh mint leaves until it becomes a liquid. Pour this refreshing juice into trays and freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The number one choice for keeping your dog hydrated after outdoor activities or for pups who don’t drink enough water.

Blueberries are a well-known superfood for both humans and dogs, packed with antioxidants that support the immune system. Paired with soluble fiber from cooked oatmeal, this treat is great for your dog’s overall health and can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs. The oatmeal adds a lovely, hearty texture.

Recipe: Cook 1/4 cup of plain rolled oats according to package directions and let it cool. Blend the cooled oatmeal with 1/2 cup of blueberries and a 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Freeze until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A fantastic, nutrient-dense option for senior dogs or any pup needing an immune system boost.

Is your dog’s tummy a little sensitive? This recipe is for them! Pumpkin is famous for its ability to regulate digestion (it helps with both constipation and diarrhea), while ginger is a natural remedy for nausea. It’s a soothing, gentle treat that’s both tasty and therapeutic.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of 100% pure pumpkin purée (not pie filling!) with 1/2 cup of plain yogurt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Pour into trays and freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The perfect treat for dogs with sensitive stomachs or as a preventative measure during travel or diet changes.

This combination is like a healthy juice for your dog. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene for eye health, and apples provide a great source of vitamins A and C. It’s a naturally sweet, crunchy (when frozen) treat that also helps clean your dog’s teeth as they chew.

Recipe: Core and deseed one apple. Blend it with 2 medium carrots (peeled and chopped) and about 1/2 cup of water until you reach a smooth consistency. Freeze and serve.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A wonderful, low-calorie option for dogs on a diet or for pet parents who want to support their pup’s dental hygiene.

Don’t let the color fool you; dogs can love green smoothies too! Leafy greens like spinach and kale are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with vitamins and minerals. Blending them with a bit of banana or apple can add a touch of sweetness to make it more palatable for your pup.

Recipe: Blend a large handful of fresh spinach, a few kale leaves (stems removed), half a banana for sweetness, and 1 cup of water. Blend until completely smooth to avoid leafy chunks. Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Ideal for the health-conscious owner wanting to add a potent dose of greens to their dog’s diet in a fun way.

Give your dog a taste of the tropics with this exotic blend. Pineapple is full of enzymes that can aid digestion, while coconut oil is praised for its benefits to skin and coat health. It’s a sweet, summery treat that feels extra special.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of fresh or frozen pineapple chunks with 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil and 1/2 cup of coconut water (or plain water). Freeze for a tropical delight.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A luxurious treat for a special occasion or for dogs who could use a little boost for a shiny, healthy coat.

Time for something savory! Sardines are an incredible source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for joint, skin, and brain health. Parsley helps to combat the fishy breath that might follow. This one might not smell great to you, but your dog will likely go wild for it.

Recipe: Blend one can of sardines packed in water (no salt added) with a handful of fresh parsley and a little of the water from the can. Pour the fishy purée into trays and freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The top choice for dogs needing a serious omega-3 boost, especially seniors or those with dry skin or stiff joints.

Another savory option that’s both delicious and healing. Low-sodium chicken broth is hydrating and tasty, while turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory powerhouse. This is a comforting, warming (despite being frozen!) treat that’s especially good for older dogs or very active dogs with sore muscles.

Recipe: Gently warm 1.5 cups of low-sodium, onion-free chicken or beef broth. Whisk in 1 teaspoon of turmeric until dissolved. Let it cool before pouring into trays to freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A must-try for senior dogs with arthritis or active dogs to help with inflammation and recovery.

This recipe tastes like a holiday treat but is healthy enough for any time of year. Cooked sweet potato is an excellent source of dietary fiber and vitamins. A dash of cinnamon adds a lovely flavor and has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a hearty and satisfying frozen snack.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of cooked, mashed sweet potato with 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth. Freeze in trays.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A fantastic, fiber-rich treat for any dog, offering a unique, comforting flavor profile.

Take the benefits of yogurt to the next level with kefir! This fermented milk drink is teeming with even more probiotics than yogurt, making it a superstar for gut health. Mixed with a medley of dog-safe berries like raspberries and blackberries, it’s a tangy, health-boosting treat.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of plain, unsweetened kefir with 1/2 cup of mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, strawberries). Freeze until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The ultimate choice for supporting your dog’s digestive system and overall immunity.

Another tropical delight, mango is packed with vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Blending it with thick, protein-rich Greek yogurt creates a luxuriously creamy and smooth pupsicle that feels like a decadent dessert for your deserving dog.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of peeled, pitted mango chunks with 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt. Add a splash of water if needed to help it blend. Freeze and enjoy.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A creamy, protein-packed treat that’s perfect for a special reward that also supports your dog’s health.

This unique blend is designed to be both refreshing and relaxing. Cantaloupe is hydrating and rich in vitamins, while chamomile is a well-known herb used to promote calmness and relaxation. It’s a great treat for anxious pups on a hot day or before a stressful event like a thunderstorm.

Recipe: Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool completely. Blend 1 cup of cantaloupe chunks with 1/4 cup of the cooled chamomile tea. Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent option for anxious or high-energy dogs to help them chill out, literally and figuratively.

Peaches are a wonderful source of fiber and vitamin A. When paired with cottage cheese, you get a treat that’s high in protein and calcium but generally lower in fat than other cheeses. It’s a surprisingly delicious and textured treat for your furry friend.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of sliced peaches (no pits!) with 1/2 cup of low-fat cottage cheese until mostly smooth (a few small curds are okay). Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A great alternative to yogurt-based treats, offering a protein punch with a sweet, fruity flavor.

For the ultimate in cooling and soothing, this green machine can’t be beaten. Cucumber is almost all water, making it incredibly hydrating. A small amount of dog-safe aloe vera juice (inner leaf only!) can help soothe the digestive system. This is a spa day in a cube for your pup.

Recipe: Blend 1 whole peeled cucumber with 2 tablespoons of food-grade inner-leaf aloe vera juice. Pour into trays and freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The absolute best choice for dogs who get easily overheated or for a post-walk treat on a blistering hot day.

Elevate the simple broth cube with this superfood combination. Bone broth is fantastic for joint health, gut health, and hydration. Goji berries, used in moderation, are packed with amino acids and antioxidants. This is a true health-boosting powerhouse.

Recipe: Soak 1 tablespoon of dried goji berries in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Blend the soaked berries with 1.5 cups of quality bone broth for dogs. Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A top-tier choice for performance dogs, senior dogs, or any pup needing extra joint and immune support.

The sweet and savory combination of apple and cheddar is a classic for a reason! It’s a flavor profile many dogs find irresistible. Apples provide vitamins, while cheese offers a punch of protein and calcium. Just be sure to use cheese in moderation.

Recipe: Blend 1 cored and deseeded apple with 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of water until the cheese is in small flecks. Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A high-value, indulgent treat perfect for training rewards or for the picky pup who turns their nose up at fruity-only options.

Raspberries are low in sugar but high in fiber and vitamin C. When you add chia seeds, you’re including a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. The chia seeds also create a fun, slightly gelatinous texture when blended with water.

Recipe: In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 1/2 cup of water and let it sit for 10 minutes to form a gel. Blend this gel with 1 cup of raspberries until smooth. Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A wonderfully healthy and unique treat, especially for dogs that could benefit from extra fiber and omega-3s in their diet.

Pears are a great choice for a sweet treat as they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. A tiny drizzle of raw honey adds extra sweetness and boasts natural antibacterial properties. This is a simple, sweet, and gentle option.

Recipe: Blend 1 cored and deseeded pear with 1 teaspoon of raw honey and 1/2 cup of water. Ensure it’s well-blended, then freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A simple and sweet treat for dogs who enjoy milder fruit flavors, offering a nice little health boost from the honey.

Ending with a savory super-treat for a lustrous coat! Green beans are a healthy, low-calorie vegetable full of iron and vitamins. The star here is the salmon oil, a concentrated source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that work wonders for skin and coat health.

Recipe: Blend 1 cup of steamed and cooled green beans with 1/2 cup of water and the recommended dose of high-quality salmon oil for your dog’s weight (check the bottle). Freeze.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The absolute best homemade treat for dogs with dull coats, dry skin, or allergies. A true beauty treatment from the inside out.

Feeling inspired? Making your own dog smoothie cubes is a breeze once you know the basics. It’s a fantastic way to control exactly what your dog eats, ensuring every ingredient is healthy and safe. Here’s what you need to know to become a pupsicle pro.

Choosing Your Ingredients

The key is to use dog-safe foods. Think of it in three parts: the base, the fruit/veg, and the booster.

• Bases: Plain yogurt, kefir, low-sodium bone or chicken broth, coconut water, or just plain water are all excellent choices.
• Fruits & Veggies: Berries, bananas, apples (no seeds), watermelon, pumpkin, carrots, and sweet potatoes are all big winners.
• Boosters: A spoonful of xylitol-free peanut butter, a drizzle of salmon oil, a sprinkle of turmeric, or some fresh parsley can add extra flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients to ALWAYS Avoid

This is critically important. Some human foods are toxic to dogs. Never include these in your recipes:

• Xylitol: An artificial sweetener found in many peanut butters and yogurts. It is extremely toxic to dogs.
• Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure.
• Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine: All are toxic.
• Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Can damage red blood cells.
• Macadamia Nuts: Highly toxic.
• Alcohol: Never give alcohol to a pet.

Essential Tools & Tips

You don’t need a fancy kitchen. All you really need is:

• A Blender: Any standard blender will do the trick to get a smooth consistency.
• Ice Cube Trays: Silicone trays are fantastic as they make it easy to pop the frozen cubes out. You can even find them in fun shapes like bones or paws!
• Storage: Once frozen, you can transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container to save space. They’ll last for several months.
• Serving: For fast eaters, consider serving the cube inside a KONG or other puzzle toy to make the treat last longer and provide mental stimulation. For smaller dogs, you can use mini ice cube trays.

Have a few more questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries about these cool treats.

1. How many smoothie cubes can I give my dog a day?

Think of these as treats, not meal replacements. A good rule of thumb is the 10% rule: treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For most dogs, one or two cubes a day is plenty, especially for the richer recipes with peanut butter or yogurt. Always supervise your dog while they’re enjoying a frozen treat.

2. Can puppies have frozen smoothie cubes?

Yes, but with a couple of considerations. Wait until their adult teeth have started coming in, as chewing on very hard frozen things can potentially damage their delicate puppy teeth. You can also let the cube soften for a few minutes before giving it to them. Stick to simple, gentle recipes like the pumpkin or broth-based ones to start.

3. How long do these homemade treats last in the freezer?

When stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag, your homemade smoothie cubes can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. However, for the best flavor and quality, we recommend using them within 6-8 weeks.

4. My dog is a super picky eater. Any tips?

Absolutely! The beauty of homemade treats is customization. Start with a base your dog already loves, like low-sodium chicken broth. Try savory recipes like the chicken and turmeric or the sardine bites, as some dogs prefer meaty flavors over sweet ones. The apple and cheddar recipe is also a great one for picky pups. You can experiment with tiny batches to see what they like best!