21 Refreshing Watermelon and Yogurt Dog Treats

Let’s start with the absolute classic! This two-ingredient recipe is the foundation of summer treats for dogs. It’s incredibly simple to make and provides instant cooling relief for your pup on a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon until it’s a smooth liquid.
2. Pour the watermelon puree into ice cube trays or silicone molds, filling them about halfway.
3. Spoon a layer of yogurt on top of the watermelon puree.
4. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the yogurt into the watermelon for a marbled effect, or leave it as a distinct layer.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid. Pop them out of the molds and serve!

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the perfect beginner-friendly recipe for any pet parent looking to give their dog a simple, healthy, and refreshing summer treat.

If you want a treat that looks a little fancier without much extra effort, these layered bites are the way to go. The distinct red and white layers look beautiful and offer a delightful textural experience for your pup.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon until smooth. Pour into ice cube trays, filling them exactly halfway.
2. Place the tray in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the watermelon layer is firm.
3. Once firm, carefully spoon the yogurt on top of the frozen watermelon layer, filling the trays to the top.
4. Return to the freezer for another 2-3 hours, or until the yogurt layer is completely solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Perfect for the pet parent who loves a good presentation! These are great for doggy parties or just to make treat time a little more special.

Who says smoothie bowls are just for humans? This is a fantastic way to serve up a refreshing snack that your dog can enjoy right away, no freezing required (though you can freeze it for a different texture!).

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen seedless watermelon chunks
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• A splash of water or coconut water (if needed for blending)
• Optional toppings: A few blueberries, a sprinkle of chia seeds, or a dog-safe peanut butter drizzle.

Instructions:

1. Combine the frozen watermelon and yogurt in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, adding a small amount of water if the mixture is too thick.
3. Pour into a small bowl for your dog.
4. Add any optional toppings and serve immediately.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This recipe is ideal for a quick, enriching snack. It’s especially good for senior dogs or those with sensitive teeth who might struggle with hard frozen treats.

Combine the cooling power of watermelon with the breath-freshening magic of mint. These little frozen bites are a treat and a dental aid all in one, helping to combat that dreaded doggy breath.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups seedless watermelon
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the watermelon, yogurt, and fresh mint leaves.
2. Blend until the mint is incorporated into a smooth, light pink mixture.
3. Pour the mixture into small silicone molds or a mini ice cube tray. Smaller sizes are better for breath fresheners.
4. Freeze for 3-4 hours until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A must-try for owners of pups with less-than-pleasant breath. It’s a sneaky, healthy way to improve their oral hygiene while giving them a delicious treat.

These tiny frozen dots are perfect for training or for small breed dogs. They’re quick to eat, low in calories, and you can make a huge batch in one go. Think of them as healthy, homemade Dippin’ Dots for your dog!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup watermelon juice (from blended watermelon, strained)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Blend watermelon and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to get pure juice.
2. In a small bowl, mix the watermelon juice and Greek yogurt until you have a smooth, thin liquid.
3. Pour the mixture into a squeeze bottle or a piping bag with a small round tip.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Pipe small dots onto the parchment paper, about the size of a dime.
6. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours until the dots are solid. Store them in a freezer-safe bag.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Ideal for pet parents who are actively training their dogs or for those with small breeds who need portion-controlled treats. A great way to reward without overfeeding.

Add an antioxidant boost to your dog’s treat with the inclusion of blueberries. The deep purple-blue of the berries creates a beautiful swirl against the pink watermelon and white yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup seedless watermelon
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

1. Create two separate purees: one by blending the watermelon, and another by blending the blueberries with the yogurt.
2. Alternately spoon the two mixtures into your molds.
3. Use a toothpick to gently swirl them together to create a marbled pattern.
4. Freeze for 4 hours or until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A fantastic choice for health-conscious pet owners looking to add extra vitamins and antioxidants to their dog’s diet in a fun and tasty way.

Don’t throw away that watermelon rind! The rind is edible for dogs (in moderation) and has a chewy texture they love. Just be sure to remove the tough outer green skin first. This recipe reduces waste and gives your dog a satisfying chew.

Ingredients:

• Rind from 1/4 of a watermelon
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt for dipping

Instructions:

1. Using a vegetable peeler, remove the dark green outer skin from the watermelon rind, leaving the pale green/white part.
2. Cut the peeled rind into chew-stick shapes, appropriate for your dog’s size.
3. You can serve these fresh for a crunchy treat. Simply dip one end in yogurt and give it to your dog.
4. For a longer-lasting chew, place the yogurt-dipped rinds on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 2-3 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is an eco-friendly treat for dogs who love to chew. It’s a great way to use the whole watermelon and provide a different texture experience.

Need a treat that isn’t frozen? These soft-baked bites are perfect for older dogs or for taking on the go. The oatmeal adds fiber and gives them a pleasant, chewy texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pureed seedless watermelon
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the watermelon puree, yogurt, and egg.
3. Gradually add the flour and rolled oats, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The perfect recipe for pet parents who want a non-frozen, portable treat. Excellent for training on the go or for dogs who don’t like cold foods.

Give your treats a healthy fat boost with coconut oil, which is great for a dog’s skin and coat. This recipe creates a super smooth, creamy texture that’s similar to the famous ‘Frosty Paws’ treats.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups seedless watermelon
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon, yogurt, and melted coconut oil until completely smooth. The coconut oil should be fully incorporated.
2. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or paper cups.
3. Freeze for at least 4 hours. The coconut oil will help them set firmly and pop out of molds easily.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A wonderful choice for dogs with dry skin or dull coats. This rich, creamy treat feels extra luxurious and provides added health benefits.

What dog can resist peanut butter? This recipe hides a delicious, nutty surprise inside a refreshing watermelon and yogurt pop. It’s two favorite flavors in one fantastic treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seedless watermelon, blended
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup dog-safe peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• A dog biscuit or carrot stick for the ‘handle’

Instructions:

1. Mix the blended watermelon and yogurt together.
2. Fill small paper cups or molds about 1/3 full with the watermelon-yogurt mixture and freeze for 30 minutes.
3. Add a small dollop of peanut butter into the center of each cup.
4. Fill the rest of the cup with the watermelon-yogurt mixture, covering the peanut butter.
5. Insert a dog biscuit or carrot stick as a handle.
6. Freeze for 4-6 hours until completely solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the ultimate special occasion treat for the peanut butter-obsessed pup. It takes a bit more effort, but the payoff in tail wags is huge.

Strawberries and watermelon are a match made in heaven. This recipe is bursting with fruity flavor and packed with Vitamin C. The vibrant red and pink colors make for a beautiful treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup seedless watermelon
• 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into molds of your choice.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A sweet, vitamin-packed treat for dogs who love berries. It’s a simple way to combine the best flavors of summer into one frozen bite.

A fun, novelty treat that’s perfect for a doggy birthday or ‘gotcha day’ celebration. You create a simple watermelon-yogurt ‘ice cream’ and sandwich it between two dog-friendly biscuits.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen watermelon chunks
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• Your dog’s favorite flat, round biscuits (like Milk-Bone Pups)

Instructions:

1. Blend the frozen watermelon and yogurt until it forms a thick, sorbet-like consistency.
2. Work quickly: lay out half of the biscuits flat side up.
3. Spoon a dollop of the ‘ice cream’ mixture onto each biscuit.
4. Top with another biscuit, flat side down, and gently press to create a sandwich.
5. Place the sandwiches on a tray and freeze for 1-2 hours to firm up completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the pet parent who loves to go the extra mile for celebrations. These are a show-stopping treat that will make any occasion feel special.

This recipe offers a completely different texture. Dehydrated watermelon becomes a chewy, jerky-like treat that’s intensely sweet and flavorful. Paired with a cool yogurt dip, it’s a fantastic combination.

Ingredients:

• Seedless watermelon, sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt for dipping

Instructions:

1. If using a dehydrator: Arrange watermelon slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays. Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 8-12 hours, or until it has a chewy, jerky-like texture.
2. If using an oven: Arrange slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake at the lowest possible temperature (usually 170-200°F or 75-95°C) with the oven door slightly ajar for 6-10 hours.
3. Let the dehydrated watermelon ‘jerky’ cool completely.
4. Serve the chewy strips with a side of plain yogurt for dipping.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Perfect for hikers, campers, and anyone needing a portable, non-messy treat. A great option for dogs who go crazy for chewy, jerky-style snacks.

Give your dog’s gut health an extra boost by swapping yogurt for kefir. Kefir is a fermented milk drink that is absolutely packed with even more beneficial probiotics than yogurt, making this a super-powered digestive aid.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seedless watermelon
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened kefir

Instructions:

1. Simply blend the watermelon and kefir together until smooth.
2. Pour into your favorite silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
3. Freeze for 4 hours until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the ultimate treat for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. It’s a delicious way to support their gut microbiome.

Gummy treats are a fun, jiggly alternative to frozen or baked goods. Using unflavored gelatin adds a protein boost and is excellent for supporting healthy joints, skin, and coat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup watermelon puree
• 1/4 cup cool water
• 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. Pour the cool water into a small bowl and sprinkle the gelatin powder over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to ‘bloom’.
2. Gently heat the watermelon puree in a small saucepan over low heat (do not boil).
3. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm puree and stir until it’s completely dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before whisking in the yogurt.
5. Pour the mixture into silicone molds and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent choice for senior dogs or breeds prone to joint issues. It’s a joint supplement and a treat rolled into one wiggly, delicious package.

A super-fast, super-refreshing treat for those moments when your dog is panting heavily after a long walk or playtime. It’s an instant cool-down in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen seedless watermelon chunks
• 1/4 cup cold water
• A large dollop of plain yogurt for topping

Instructions:

1. In a powerful blender, combine the frozen watermelon chunks and cold water.
2. Pulse until it reaches a thick, icy, slushy consistency.
3. Spoon the slushy into your dog’s bowl.
4. Top with a big dollop of plain yogurt and serve immediately.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The go-to recipe for an immediate post-exercise cool-down. It’s faster than waiting for a pupsicle to freeze and just as satisfying for a hot dog.

Celebrate your pup in style with a dog-friendly ‘cake’! This no-bake recipe uses a large slice of watermelon as the cake base, frosted with creamy yogurt and decorated with other dog-safe fruits.

Ingredients:

• 1 thick, round slice of seedless watermelon (about 2 inches thick)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (it’s thicker and better for ‘frosting’)
• Assorted dog-safe berries or fruits for decoration (blueberries, strawberries, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Cut a thick, round slice from the center of a large watermelon. You can use a round cookie cutter to make a perfect circle if you wish.
2. Pat the outside of the watermelon slice dry with a paper towel. This helps the ‘frosting’ stick.
3. Place the watermelon slice on a plate.
4. Use a spatula to ‘frost’ the top and sides of the watermelon slice with the Greek yogurt.
5. Decorate with berries and other fruits.
6. Serve a slice to the birthday pup! You can freeze it for about 30 minutes to help the frosting set.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the ultimate birthday or adoption day centerpiece. It’s a fun, healthy, and Instagram-worthy way to celebrate your best friend.

For the pup who might prefer something a little less sweet, adding parsley provides a savory, earthy note. Like mint, parsley is also a fantastic natural breath freshener.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups seedless watermelon
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine all three ingredients.
2. Blend until the parsley is in small flecks throughout the pink mixture.
3. Pour into silicone molds.
4. Freeze for 4 hours until solid.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A great option for dogs who aren’t big on overly sweet treats. The added benefits of parsley make it a healthy and interesting choice for the adventurous pup.

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. This recipe requires minimal prep and is a fantastic way to give your dog a satisfying, crunchy, and cold treat with very little effort.

Ingredients:

• Seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. Place watermelon cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.
2. Set up a dipping station with your frozen watermelon cubes and a bowl of yogurt.
3. Dip each frozen cube into the yogurt, coating it halfway.
4. Place the dipped cubes back on the parchment-lined sheet.
5. Return to the freezer for another hour to set the yogurt coating.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the perfect low-effort, high-reward treat. It’s fantastic for when you want to make something special but are short on time and energy.

Boost the protein content of your dog’s treat by adding cottage cheese. It’s a mild, dog-safe cheese that’s packed with protein and calcium, and its lumpy texture adds an interesting element to the frozen bites.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup seedless watermelon
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the watermelon, yogurt, and cottage cheese.
2. Blend until mostly smooth, but it’s okay if a few small cottage cheese curds remain for texture.
3. Pour into molds and freeze for 4 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent treat for very active dogs, puppies, or any pup that could use an extra protein boost. The cheesy flavor is a big hit with most dogs.

Why stop at watermelon? This smoothie-turned-pupsicle includes a medley of dog-safe fruits and veggies for a treat that’s absolutely bursting with vitamins, minerals, and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup seedless watermelon
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup blueberries
• A few slices of banana
• A handful of spinach (for color and vitamins!)
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until completely smooth. The mixture might be a purple-ish or brownish color, but it’s packed with goodness!
3. Pour into molds and freeze solid, about 4-6 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: This is the ultimate nutrient-dense treat for the health-conscious pet owner. It’s a veritable superfood smoothie in a frozen, lickable package.

Making DIY treats is fun and rewarding, but it’s important to keep your pup’s safety and health in mind. Here are a few key things to remember when you’re whipping up these refreshing recipes.

Choosing Your Ingredients

• Watermelon: Always opt for seedless watermelon. While a seed or two won’t hurt, a large amount can potentially cause intestinal blockage, especially in small dogs. Never let your dog chew on the hard, green rind, as it can be difficult to digest.
• Yogurt: The best choice is plain, unsweetened yogurt. Avoid flavored yogurts, which are full of sugar, and ‘light’ or ‘sugar-free’ versions, which may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Greek yogurt is a great option as it’s thicker and higher in protein.
• Add-ins: When adding other fruits, veggies, or ingredients like peanut butter, always double-check that they are safe for canine consumption. Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, and macadamia nuts are all big no-nos.

Portion Control is Key

Even healthy treats should be given in moderation. Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. These watermelon and yogurt snacks are generally low in calories, but it’s still important not to overdo it, especially for smaller dogs. A couple of small frozen bites a day is plenty for most pups.

Tools of the Trade

You don’t need much to get started, but a few items make the process much easier:

• A Blender: A good blender is essential for getting those smooth purees.
• Silicone Molds: They are a fantastic investment! They’re flexible, making it super easy to pop out frozen treats. Look for fun shapes like paw prints or bones.
• Ice Cube Trays: If you don’t have silicone molds, standard ice cube trays work perfectly well.

Can all dogs eat watermelon?

Yes, for the most part! Watermelon is safe for dogs and a healthy treat option. However, because of its sugar content, it should be given in moderation, especially to diabetic dogs. Always introduce any new food slowly to make sure it doesn’t cause any digestive upset.

How much yogurt can my dog have?

It depends on your dog’s size and tolerance to dairy. For a small dog, a teaspoon a day is a good starting point. A large dog might enjoy a tablespoon or two. Yogurt contains lactose, and some dogs are lactose intolerant. If you notice any gas, bloating, or diarrhea, it’s best to skip the yogurt or try a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

How should I store these homemade treats?

All frozen treats should be removed from their molds once solid and stored in a freezer-safe, airtight container or bag. They will typically last for up to 3 months in the freezer. The baked treats should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The gelatin gummies must be kept in the fridge and will last for about 5-7 days.

Is the watermelon rind really safe for dogs to eat?

The pale green/white part of the rind is safe and digestible for dogs in moderation. However, the tough, dark green outer skin is very difficult to digest and can cause gastrointestinal upset or blockage. It’s crucial to peel this outer layer off completely before giving the rind to your dog.