Frozen Dog Treats for Summer: Cool and Refreshing

When the summer sun is blazing, and we’re reaching for iced drinks and shady spots, our dogs feel the heat too—sometimes even more than we do. With their thick coats and boundless energy, warm weather can quickly become uncomfortable, or even dangerous, for them. So how can you help your pup stay cool?

That’s where frozen dog treats come in—a delightful way to hydrate and refresh your dog while offering a bit of fun and flavour. Whether you’re lounging in the garden, heading out on a sunny walk, or enjoying a beach day, a frozen dog snack can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll explore easy homemade frozen treat recipes, the nutritional value they can bring, and tips to keep things safe and delicious. You’ll walk away with practical, vet-informed ideas and a few freezer favourites your dog will go wild for.

Why Frozen Treats Are a Summer Must-Have

Dogs Overheat Faster Than You Think

Dogs don’t sweat like humans—they rely on panting and paw pad perspiration to regulate their temperature. On hot days, this method isn’t always enough.

Signs your dog might be too hot include:

• Excessive panting
• Lethargy or confusion
• Drooling
• Warm, dry nose
• Bright red gums

Frozen treats offer a fun way to cool them from the inside out, helping to lower their body temperature and keep them hydrated.

A Tasty Way to Boost Hydration

Many frozen dog treats are made with water-rich ingredients like broth, fruit, or yoghurt, which contribute to your dog’s fluid intake. If your dog is fussy about drinking water on its own, this is a clever workaround.

Key Ingredients: Safe and Nutritious Bases

Not all human foods are dog-friendly, so before we get into recipes, let’s look at what you can—and shouldn’t—use as a base for frozen dog snacks.

Safe Ingredients to Try

• Plain Greek yoghurt: Rich in protein and probiotics (great for digestion).
• Bone broth (unsalted): Hydrating, nourishing, and flavourful.
• Bananas: Creamy, sweet, and a good source of potassium.
• Blueberries and strawberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
• Peanut butter (xylitol-free): A classic hit—just be sure it’s natural and sugar-free.
• Pumpkin purée: Great for digestive health and adds texture.

Ingredients to Avoid

• Xylitol (often in peanut butter or gum): Highly toxic to dogs.
• Chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic: All toxic—even in small amounts.
• Artificial sweeteners and additives: These can upset your dog’s stomach or worse.
• Dairy with high lactose content: Many dogs are lactose intolerant.

Easy Frozen Dog Treat Recipes

You don’t need fancy equipment or loads of time. Here are some easy, freezer-friendly treats using everyday ingredients.

1. Peanut Butter Banana Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
• 1 cup plain Greek yoghurt

Instructions:

1. Mash the banana.
2. Mix in the peanut butter and yoghurt.
3. Spoon into silicone moulds or an ice cube tray.
4. Freeze for 3–4 hours until solid.

Why dogs love it: It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and full of healthy fats and protein.

2. Berry Cool Cubes

Ingredients:

• A handful of blueberries and chopped strawberries
• 1 cup water or coconut water (unsweetened)

Instructions:

1. Place berries in an ice cube tray.
2. Top up with water or coconut water.
3. Freeze until solid.

Tip: These are great for pups who love crunching on ice!

3. Chicken Broth Pupsicles

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-sodium or homemade bone broth
• A few small pieces of cooked chicken or carrot

Instructions:

1. Pour the broth into moulds or small cups.
2. Add the chicken pieces.
3. Freeze overnight.

Pro tip: Add a small dog-safe biscuit to the centre before freezing—it acts as a “stick” for licking!

4. Apple & Carrot Ice Chews

Ingredients:

• ½ apple, finely chopped (core removed)
• 1 small grated carrot
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Spoon into ice cube trays.
3. Freeze for a few hours.

These are low-calorie but big on crunch and hydration.

5. Yoghurt Pops with a Twist

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional and safe for dogs over 1 year)
• A handful of finely chopped mint

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients.
2. Pour into moulds.
3. Freeze for 3–5 hours.

Why it works: Mint helps freshen breath, and yoghurt soothes the tummy.

Tailoring Treats for Your Dog’s Diet

Not every dog has the same dietary needs. Whether you’ve got a pup with allergies or a senior dog with fewer teeth, there’s still a treat for them.

For Dogs with Allergies or Food Sensitivities

Stick to limited-ingredient recipes. Swap out dairy for:

• Coconut yoghurt
• Mashed sweet potato
• Goat’s milk (often easier to digest)

For Senior Dogs

• Use softer textures like blended fruits and veggies
• Avoid hard-frozen chunks
• Let treats thaw slightly for easier chewing

Storage Tips and Safety Reminders

Homemade treats don’t contain preservatives, so they won’t last forever. Here’s how to store them properly:

• Use airtight containers or zip-lock bags
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 weeks
• Always check for freezer burn or odd smells before serving

Serving size advice: Treats are just that—treats. Even healthy ones should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

Real Talk: My Dog’s Favourite Frozen Snack

Last summer, I whipped up the peanut butter banana bites for my Labrador, Buddy. He’s fussy—he’ll sniff something for five minutes before deciding—but the moment he tried these, he parked himself in front of the freezer.

A week later, I added blueberries into the mix, and it became his daily post-walk ritual. Cool, nourishing, and downright addictive (for dogs, anyway!).

If you’re ever unsure what your dog will like, start with a small batch and watch how they react. Every dog has their own “flavour personality,” just like we do.

Cool Your Canine the Natural Way

As the temperatures rise and summer approaches, your dog relies on you to keep them safe, cool, and comfortable. Frozen dog treats are more than just fun—they’re a thoughtful way to care for your pup’s wellbeing while offering a tasty moment of joy.

By choosing natural, homemade ingredients, you’re in control of what goes into your dog’s body. Whether it’s a peanut butter delight or a fruity ice cube, these snacks help keep tails wagging through the heat.

Why not try one of these recipes today? Snap a photo of your pup’s favourite frozen snack and tag us—let’s share the joy! And don’t forget to subscribe for more homemade dog food inspiration.