11 Frozen Yogurt Dog Treat Recipes for Summer Cooling

You simply can’t go wrong with this timeless combination. The rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter mixed with the natural sweetness of banana is a duo that drives most dogs absolutely wild. It’s the ultimate comfort food in a cool, lickable package.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (Greek yogurt works well for a thicker consistency)
• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons of creamy, all-natural, xylitol-free peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Make sure your peanut butter is 100% free of xylitol, as it is highly toxic to dogs.
2. Combine the yogurt, banana, and peanut butter in a blender.
3. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the mixture into silicone molds (paw or bone shapes are fun!) or a standard ice cube tray.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
6. Pop a treat out of the mold and watch your dog enjoy!

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This recipe is the perfect starting point for any pet parent new to making frozen treats. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for picky eaters and a fantastic way to stuff a Kong for long-lasting enrichment.

Give your pup a boost of goodness with this vibrant, berry-packed treat. Blueberries and strawberries are not only delicious but are also loaded with antioxidants, which are great for your dog’s immune system and overall health. The beautiful purple hue is just a bonus!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen blueberries and strawberries)
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Instructions:

1. If using fresh strawberries, wash them and remove the stems.
2. Place the yogurt and mixed berries (and honey, if using) into a blender.
3. Blend until you achieve a smooth, vibrant purée. You can leave it slightly chunky for more texture if you prefer.
4. Carefully pour the mixture into your molds.
5. Freeze for 4-6 hours until completely solid.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This is an excellent choice for health-conscious pet parents, especially those with senior dogs who can benefit from the extra antioxidant support. It’s a light, refreshing, and guilt-free way to spoil your pup.

Pumpkin isn’t just for the fall! This superfood is a fantastic source of fiber, making it a go-to for digestive health. Paired with a hint of ginger, which is known for its anti-nausea properties, this treat is as gentle on the tummy as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 cup 100% pure pumpkin purée (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. It’s crucial to use pure pumpkin purée, as pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices that are harmful to dogs.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, pumpkin purée, and ground ginger until well combined and smooth.
3. Spoon the orange-colored mixture into your ice cube trays or molds.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who occasionally suffer from digestive upset. It’s a gentle, soothing, and functional treat that helps keep their system running smoothly.

Whisk your dog away to a tropical paradise with this exotic treat! Sweet mango provides a burst of vitamins, while a touch of coconut oil adds healthy fats that are fantastic for their skin and coat. It’s a mini-vacation in a pupsicle.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 cup ripe mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon organic, cold-pressed coconut oil (melted)

Instructions:

1. If using fresh mango, be sure to remove the pit and skin.
2. Combine the yogurt, mango chunks, and melted coconut oil in a blender.
3. Blend until the mixture is smooth and has a sunny, yellow color.
4. Pour into molds and freeze for 4-6 hours. The coconut oil will help the treats firm up nicely.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This recipe is for the adventurous pup with a sweet tooth. It’s a fantastic choice for pet parents looking to boost their dog’s coat health and give them a taste of something a little different and special.

An apple a day keeps the vet away! This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of apple with the warmth of cinnamon for a treat that tastes like a frozen apple pie. Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamins, and they help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 apple, cored and finely chopped (leave the skin on for extra fiber!)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Make absolutely sure to remove all seeds and the core from the apple, as seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide.
2. In a bowl, mix the yogurt and cinnamon together.
3. Stir in the finely chopped apple pieces. This recipe is meant to be chunky, so no blender is needed.
4. Spoon the mixture into your molds, ensuring the apple pieces are evenly distributed.
5. Freeze until solid, about 4 hours.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

Ideal for dogs who love texture and crunch in their treats. The small, frozen apple pieces provide a satisfying bite, making it more engaging than a simple puréed pupsicle. A great choice for dental hygiene, too!

When it comes to summer hydration, nothing beats watermelon. This fruit is over 90% water, making it an incredibly refreshing and hydrating snack. A little bit of fresh mint adds a surprising twist that also helps freshen your pup’s breath.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup seedless watermelon chunks
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

1. Ensure your watermelon is completely seedless.
2. Place the watermelon, yogurt, and fresh mint leaves in a blender.
3. Blend until smooth. The mixture will be thinner than other recipes due to the high water content of the watermelon.
4. Pour into molds and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until very firm.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This is the ultimate treat for a scorching hot day or after a long walk or play session. It’s the most hydrating option on our list, making it a smart and refreshing choice for active dogs.

This vibrant, golden-hued treat is a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory goodness. Carrots are packed with beta-carotene for eye health, while turmeric is a well-known natural anti-inflammatory, great for active and senior dogs alike. It’s a treat that works hard for your dog’s health.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 cup steamed or boiled carrots, cooled
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• A pinch of black pepper (helps with turmeric absorption)

Instructions:

1. Cooking the carrots first makes them easier to blend and digest.
2. Combine the cooked carrots, yogurt, turmeric, and black pepper in a blender.
3. Blend until completely smooth.
4. Spoon the bright orange mixture into your favorite molds.
5. Freeze for 4-5 hours until solid.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

An outstanding choice for senior dogs or very active pups who could benefit from some natural joint support. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric make this more than just a treat; it’s a wellness boost.

Want to sneak some extra greens into your dog’s diet? This is the way to do it! Dog-safe greens like spinach and kale are blended into a creamy, cool treat. They won’t even know they’re eating their veggies!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• A large handful of fresh spinach or kale (stems removed from kale)
• 1/4 cup water (to help it blend)

Instructions:

1. Wash the greens thoroughly.
2. Place the yogurt, greens, and water into a blender.
3. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and there are no large leafy bits left.
4. Pour into molds and freeze for 4 hours.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This is for the health-conscious pet owner determined to give their dog a well-rounded diet. It’s a fantastic, low-calorie option for dogs on a weight management plan who still deserve a tasty treat.

Okay, stay with us on this one. It might not sound appealing to you, but most dogs will go absolutely bonkers for the fishy flavor of sardines. These little fish are an incredible source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy skin, a shiny coat, and good joint function.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1 can of sardines packed in water (no salt added), drained
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for fishy breath!)

Instructions:

1. Choose sardines packed in water, not oil, and with no added salt.
2. In a bowl, mash the drained sardines with a fork.
3. Add the yogurt and chopped parsley and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture into molds. Be prepared for a strong fishy smell!
5. Freeze for 4 hours and serve in a well-ventilated area or outdoors!

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This is the ultimate functional treat for dogs with dry skin, dull coats, or joint issues. If you can get past the smell, your dog will thank you with their glowing health and enthusiastic licks.

Sweet potatoes are another digestive-friendly superfood, packed with Vitamin A, fiber, and essential minerals. When cooked and cooled, they create a wonderfully creamy and naturally sweet base for a frozen treat that dogs adore.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato, cooled
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. You can bake or boil a sweet potato until it’s very tender. Let it cool completely before using.
2. In a bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, yogurt, and honey (if using).
3. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour into molds and freeze for 4-5 hours.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

A wonderful, nutrient-dense option that feels more substantial than a simple fruit-based treat. It’s great for active dogs who need to replenish their energy stores and for pet parents who want to provide a vitamin-rich snack.

This recipe adds a delightful texture and a boost of fiber with the inclusion of rolled oats. It’s like a frozen blueberry crumble in a dog-friendly format. The oats make the treat a bit heartier and add a nice, chewy consistency once they start to melt.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons rolled oats (not instant)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the yogurt and blueberries and pulse a few times. You want to break up the berries but leave some texture.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl and stir in the rolled oats.
3. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the oats to soften slightly.
4. Spoon into your molds and freeze for 4-6 hours until solid.

Pros & Cons:

The Verdict:

This is a great recipe for dogs who appreciate more texture and substance in their snacks. The added fiber from the oats makes it a more filling treat, perfect for bridging the gap between meals on a hot day.

Ready to start experimenting? Awesome! Before you go, here are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your homemade treats are both safe and delicious for your furry best friend.

Choosing the Right Yogurt

The most important rule is to always use plain, unsweetened yogurt. Flavored yogurts are packed with sugar your dog doesn’t need. Critically, you must check the ingredients list for xylitol (sometimes listed as ‘birch sugar’). This artificial sweetener is extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Greek yogurt is a great option as its thicker consistency and higher protein content work well in these recipes.

Safe Fruits, Veggies, and Add-Ins

While many human foods are great for dogs, some are dangerous. Stick to this list of safe options:

• Safe Fruits: Berries, Bananas, Apples (no seeds/core), Watermelon (seedless), Mango (no pit/skin), Cantaloupe, Peaches (no pit).
• Unsafe Fruits: Grapes, Raisins, Cherries, Avocado.
• Safe Veggies: Pumpkin, Carrots, Sweet Potato, Spinach, Kale, Green Beans.
• Other Goodies: All-natural peanut butter (xylitol-free), sardines (in water), coconut oil, oats, ginger, turmeric, parsley.

Molds and Freezing Techniques

You don’t need fancy equipment! A standard ice cube tray works perfectly. However, silicone molds in fun shapes like paws and bones are affordable and make the treats easy to pop out. For a longer-lasting challenge, you can use these recipes to stuff a Kong toy and freeze it. This provides both a cool treat and mental stimulation.

Portion Control is Key

Remember, these are treats! They should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. One or two small cubes or one paw-shaped treat is a perfect serving size for most medium-sized dogs. Always supervise your dog while they’re enjoying their frozen snack to prevent choking.

Is yogurt really safe for all dogs?

While yogurt is safe for most dogs, some can be lactose intolerant. The good news is that yogurt is often easier for them to digest than plain milk because the live cultures help break down the lactose. However, if you notice any digestive upset (like gas or diarrhea), it’s best to stop. You can also try non-dairy alternatives like plain, unsweetened coconut yogurt.

How often can I give my dog these frozen treats?

Moderation is key. Think of these as a special snack, not a meal replacement. One treat per day on hot days is generally a good rule of thumb for a medium-sized dog. Adjust based on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet.

How long do these homemade treats last in the freezer?

Stored in an airtight container or a freezer bag, these treats will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Storing them properly prevents them from absorbing other freezer odors and from getting freezer burn.

Can I use a different base instead of yogurt?

Absolutely! If your dog doesn’t do well with yogurt, you can use a base of blended bananas, pumpkin purée, or even just water with blended fruit for a more sorbet-style treat. You can also use bone broth (make sure it’s low-sodium and onion/garlic-free) for a savory, hydrating pupsicle.