21 Zero-Waste Frozen Watermelon Rind Treats for Hot Days

Let’s start with the simplest recipe of all! This is the foundation for many other treats on this list and is fantastic on its own. It’s pure, simple, and incredibly refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind (white/pale green part only)
• 1/4 cup water (if needed for blending)

Instructions:

1. Thoroughly wash the watermelon. Carefully cut away and discard the tough, dark green outer skin.
2. Chop the remaining white/pale green rind into small, manageable pieces.
3. Place the rind pieces into a blender. Blend until you have a smooth, watery purée. Add a splash of water if your blender needs help.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone molds.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.

Verdict: Perfect for first-timers or dogs who appreciate simplicity. It’s a fantastic, no-fuss way to see if your pup enjoys the taste of watermelon rind.

Adding a bit of plain yogurt introduces a creamy texture and a dose of probiotics, which are great for your dog’s digestive health. The swirl effect makes them look extra special!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (ensure it contains no xylitol)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the watermelon rind purée as described in the classic recipe.
2. Pour the rind purée into your molds, filling them about three-quarters full.
3. Add a small dollop of yogurt on top of each one.
4. Use a toothpick or the end of a spoon to gently swirl the yogurt into the rind mixture.
5. Freeze until solid.

Verdict: An excellent choice for dogs who enjoy dairy and could use a little boost for their tummy. The creaminess is often a big hit!

Want to pack an antioxidant punch? Berries are your best friend. Blueberries and strawberries are safe for dogs and add natural sweetness and vibrant color to these treats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind
• 1/4 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen), such as blueberries or strawberries
• A splash of water

Instructions:

1. Combine the chopped rind and berries in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to get things moving.
3. The mixture will likely have a lovely purple or pink hue.
4. Pour into molds and freeze solid.

Verdict: A fantastic, healthy upgrade for any dog. The added flavor from the berries makes this a canine crowd-pleaser.

Is there any dog that can resist the call of peanut butter? This combination is a surefire winner for even the fussiest of pups. Just be absolutely certain your peanut butter is safe for dogs!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter (MUST be xylitol-free and sodium-free)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the rind purée with the peanut butter until it’s well combined. It might look a little separated at first, but keep stirring.
2. Alternatively, you can blend them together for a smoother consistency.
3. Spoon the mixture into your molds.
4. Freeze until firm.

Verdict: This is the go-to recipe for picky eaters. The rich flavor of peanut butter masks the mild rind taste, making it a high-value treat.

A little bit of fresh mint can help combat doggy breath, making those post-treat kisses a bit more pleasant. It adds a unique, refreshing twist to the standard rind pop.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind
• 3-4 fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Tear the mint leaves into smaller pieces.
2. Place the rind, mint leaves, and water into a blender.
3. Blend until the mint is finely incorporated into the smooth purée.
4. Pour into your favorite molds and freeze completely.

Verdict: A great option for owners looking for a multi-purpose treat that cools their dog down and helps with dental hygiene.

Carrots are a fantastic source of Vitamin A and beta-carotene. Adding them to the rind purée gives the treats a slightly sweeter taste and a satisfying, subtle crunch if you don’t blend them completely smooth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind
• 1/2 a medium carrot, finely grated or chopped
• A splash of water

Instructions:

1. Combine the rind and carrot in a blender.
2. For a smoother texture, blend until completely puréed. For a bit of ‘crunch’, pulse until mixed but still slightly textured.
3. Pour into molds and freeze.

Verdict: An ideal treat for adding extra vitamins into your dog’s diet in a fun and refreshing way. Dogs who love chewing on carrots will especially enjoy this one.

Introduce a taste of the tropics with coconut milk! It creates an incredibly creamy, rich treat that feels truly indulgent. Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which can help with skin and coat health.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 2 tablespoons full-fat canned coconut milk (unsweetened)

Instructions:

1. Whisk the coconut milk into the watermelon rind purée until smooth and creamy.
2. The mixture will be an opaque, pale green color.
3. Pour into molds and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, as the fat content can make it freeze a bit slower.

Verdict: A special occasion treat for dogs who deserve a little pampering. The richness makes it very satisfying, so it’s great for serving in smaller portions.

Pumpkin is a superstar ingredient for dogs. It’s famous for its ability to help regulate digestion, whether things are moving too quickly or too slowly. It’s a gentle and healthy addition.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 2 tablespoons pure pumpkin purée (NOT pumpkin pie filling)

Instructions:

1. Mix the rind purée and pumpkin purée together in a bowl.
2. The color will be a muted orange-green.
3. Spoon into molds and freeze until solid.

Verdict: A must-try for any dog with a sensitive tummy. It’s a gentle, soothing, and hydrating treat that supports their digestive system.

Bananas add natural sweetness, potassium, and a wonderfully smooth texture when blended. They are a great source of quick, healthy energy for your active pup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind
• 1/2 a ripe banana

Instructions:

1. Place the rind and banana into a blender.
2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. The banana will make the mixture thicker.
3. Pour or spoon into your molds and freeze.

Verdict: Perfect for a post-playtime cool-down or for dogs who have a bit of a sweet tooth. The energy boost is a nice bonus!

Ginger is well-known for its anti-nausea and digestive-soothing properties. A tiny amount can go a long way in making these treats beneficial for dogs prone to car sickness or upset stomachs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Stir the freshly grated ginger into the rind purée, ensuring it is distributed evenly.
2. Pour the mixture into small molds (as this is a potent flavor).
3. Freeze until solid.

Verdict: An excellent treat to have on hand for road trips or for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Serve a small one before travel to help settle their tummy.

This combination brings a cozy, comforting flavor that’s reminiscent of autumn. Unsweetened applesauce is a healthy, fibrous addition, and a dash of cinnamon has anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
• A tiny pinch of Ceylon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Mix the rind purée, applesauce, and cinnamon together in a bowl.
2. Pour into paw-print shaped molds for a thematic touch.
3. Freeze until hard.

Verdict: A uniquely flavored treat that’s great for dogs who enjoy a variety of tastes. The gentle sweetness of apple is often a big hit.

Kefir is like yogurt’s super-powered cousin, packed with even more beneficial probiotic strains. It’s fantastic for building a healthy gut microbiome in your dog.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 2 tablespoons plain, unsweetened kefir

Instructions:

1. Whisk the kefir into the rind purée until it’s fully incorporated. It will be a thin, drinkable consistency.
2. Carefully pour into your ice cube trays or molds.
3. Freeze until solid.

Verdict: This is the ultimate treat for owners focused on their dog’s digestive and immune health. It’s a simple way to introduce powerful probiotics.

For the dog who prefers savory over sweet, this is the perfect option. Bone broth is not only delicious but also packed with glucosamine and collagen, which are excellent for joint health.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 1/4 cup dog-safe bone broth (no salt, onions, or garlic)

Instructions:

1. Stir the bone broth into the rind purée.
2. The mixture will be very liquidy. Pour into molds.
3. Freeze until solid. These may take a little longer to freeze firm.

Verdict: A top-tier choice for senior dogs or active, large breeds to help support their joints. Also great for enticing dogs who aren’t interested in fruity flavors.

Sneak in some extra leafy greens with a handful of spinach. It’s rich in iron and vitamins, and when blended with the rind, your dog will hardly notice they’re eating their greens!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind
• A small handful of fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Place the rind, spinach, and water into a blender.
2. Blend until very smooth, making sure no large pieces of spinach leaf remain.
3. The mixture will be a vibrant, deep green.
4. Pour into molds and freeze.

Verdict: Ideal for the health-conscious pet owner looking to boost their dog’s nutrient intake in a sneaky and delicious way.

Okay, hear me out! This one might not sound appealing to us, but many dogs go absolutely wild for fish. Sardines are an incredible source of Omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 1-2 sardines packed in water (no salt added), mashed

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, gently fold the mashed sardines into the rind purée. Don’t overmix; you want little savory pockets.
2. Spoon the mixture into molds.
3. Freeze solid and maybe open a window!

Verdict: The ultimate treat for dogs with dry skin or dull coats. If you can handle the smell, your dog will thank you with their glowing health (and fishy breath!).

Cooked sweet potato adds a creamy texture, a lovely orange color, and a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins. It’s a hearty and satisfying addition to the light watermelon rind.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 2 tablespoons cooked, mashed sweet potato

Instructions:

1. Ensure the sweet potato is cooked and cooled completely.
2. Mix the mashed sweet potato thoroughly with the rind purée.
3. Pour into molds and freeze.

Verdict: A great choice for a more substantial, filling snack. The added fiber makes it satisfying and beneficial for your dog’s digestion.

Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses of fiber, protein, and omega-3s. When soaked, they form a gel that creates a unique and interesting texture in these frozen treats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Stir the chia seeds directly into the watermelon rind purée.
2. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the chia seeds to ‘bloom’ and form a gel.
3. Stir again, then pour into your molds.
4. Freeze until solid.

Verdict: For the adventurous dog and owner! This treat offers a unique texture and a significant nutritional boost in a tiny package.

This is where you get to be an artist! By creating separate purées, you can layer them for a beautiful, multi-flavored treat that’s as fun to make as it is for your dog to eat.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup puréed watermelon rind (Layer 1)
• 1/4 cup puréed strawberries or raspberries (Layer 2)
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (Layer 3)

Instructions:

1. Pour the first layer (e.g., rind purée) into your molds and freeze for 30-60 minutes, until semi-firm.
2. Gently pour the second layer (e.g., berry purée) on top and return to the freezer for another 30-60 minutes.
3. Add the final layer (e.g., yogurt) and freeze completely for at least 4 hours.

Verdict: The perfect project for a rainy day or a special occasion. It’s a showstopper treat that combines multiple healthy ingredients.

This recipe creates an edible ‘handle’ for your pupsicle, making it less messy for your dog to enjoy. The carrot stick is a healthy, crunchy bonus treat at the end!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup puréed watermelon rind (or any other variation)
• A few carrot sticks, sized appropriately for your dog

Instructions:

1. Place your molds (ice cube trays or small paper cups work well) on a flat tray.
2. Fill them with your chosen rind purée.
3. Stick a carrot stick into the center of each one, ensuring it stands upright.
4. Freeze until completely solid.

Verdict: A brilliant solution for teething puppies or any dog who likes to hold their food. It turns a simple treat into an engaging activity.

Portion control is key, especially for small breeds. This ‘recipe’ is more of a technique: use mini ice cube trays or candy molds to create perfectly sized bites for your little companion.

Ingredients:

• Your choice of any watermelon rind purée from this list

Instructions:

1. Prepare your desired recipe.
2. Instead of a standard ice cube tray, use a silicone mold with very small shapes (small paws, tiny bones, or even just mini-ice cube trays).
3. Carefully fill the small cavities. A piping bag or a squeeze bottle can make this much easier.
4. Freeze until solid.

Verdict: An absolute must for owners of Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and other small breeds. It allows them to enjoy these cooling treats safely and without overindulging.

This is the ultimate zero-waste recipe. Don’t be afraid to mix and match dog-safe leftovers! A little bit of rind, a few blueberries, a spoonful of yogurt, a chunk of banana… it all works!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped watermelon rind
• A mix of dog-safe leftovers: a few berries, a spoonful of kefir, a small piece of banana, a bit of applesauce, etc.
• Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Gather your dog-safe leftovers.
2. Combine everything in a blender with the watermelon rind.
3. Blend until smooth, adding water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste-test… just kidding! Pour into molds and freeze for your pup.

Verdict: For the creative and eco-conscious dog owner. This method ensures nothing goes to waste and provides your dog with a new and exciting flavor combination with each batch.

Feeling inspired? Awesome! Before you run to the kitchen, let’s go over a few key points to ensure your treat-making is safe, fun, and successful.

Is Watermelon Rind Really Safe?

Yes, but with a few important caveats. The fleshy, white part of the rind is safe and contains beneficial nutrients like citrulline. However, you must always remove the tough, outer dark green skin. This part is very fibrous and difficult for dogs to digest, potentially causing an intestinal blockage. Also, like any new food, introduce it slowly and in moderation to make sure it agrees with your dog’s system.

What to Look For (and Avoid)

• Organic is Best: If possible, choose an organic watermelon to minimize pesticide residue on the rind. Either way, always wash the outside of the watermelon thoroughly before cutting.
• No Added Sugar: When adding ingredients like yogurt, peanut butter, or applesauce, read the labels carefully. They should be plain and unsweetened.
• Xylitol is a HUGE No-No: This artificial sweetener is extremely toxic to dogs. It’s often found in peanut butter and some yogurts. Always check the ingredients list. When in doubt, choose another product.
• Moderation is Key: These are treats, not a meal replacement. One or two small cubes a day is plenty for most dogs, depending on their size.

Tools of the Trade

You don’t need any fancy equipment, but these items will make the process a breeze:

• A Good Blender: A powerful blender will make quick work of the rind, turning it into a smooth purée.
• A Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For safely removing the outer green skin and chopping the rind.
• Silicone Molds or Ice Cube Trays: Silicone molds are fantastic because they come in fun shapes (paws, bones) and are flexible, making it easy to pop the frozen treats out.

Have a few more questions? We’ve got answers!

How much watermelon rind can my dog have?

Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For these rind treats, which are very low in calories, 1-2 small cubes for a medium-sized dog on a hot day is a good rule of thumb. Always start with a small amount to see how your dog tolerates it.

Can puppies eat these frozen treats?

Yes! Frozen treats can be wonderfully soothing for teething puppies. Just be sure to use puppy-safe ingredients (like the classic rind pop or the carrot crunch) and supervise them to ensure they don’t choke. The Rind & Carrot ‘Bones’ recipe is especially good for them.

How long do these treats last in the freezer?

When stored in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, these homemade treats will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 months. Though, if your dog has anything to say about it, they probably won’t last that long!