Alana Harrington
As the summer months approach, it’s important to keep your furry friend cool and hydrated. While there are many options for dog-friendly treats on the market, making your own at home can be a fun and healthy way to bond with your pet. Here are twelve creative and healthy summer treat ideas for your dog.
1. Frozen Fruit Popsicles
Fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and blueberries are safe for dogs and can help keep them hydrated in hot weather. To make frozen fruit popsicles for your dog, simply blend your chosen fruits with water or chicken broth and freeze them in an ice cube tray or popsicle mold. These refreshing treats are easy to make and can provide a tasty and healthy snack for your furry friend.
2. Peanut Butter and Banana Ice Cream
Peanut butter and banana are both healthy and tasty ingredients that dogs love. To make this easy ice cream recipe, blend frozen bananas and a spoonful of peanut butter in a food processor or blender. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray or small container and freeze for a few hours. This creamy treat is sure to cool down your dog on a hot summer day.
3. Frozen Yogurt Bites
Plain, unsweetened yoghurt is a healthy and tasty snack for dogs. To make frozen yoghurt bites, simply spoon the yoghurt into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. You can also mix some dog-friendly fruits like blueberries or chopped strawberries for added flavour and nutrition.
4. Carrot and Apple Treats
Carrots and apples are both low-calorie snacks that are packed with nutrients. To make this simple treat, peel and chop one apple and two carrots and mix them in a bowl. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate until firm. This crunchy and nutritious snack is perfect for summer days and can help clean your dog’s teeth.
5. Watermelon and Yogurt Sorbet
Watermelon is a hydrating fruit that can help keep your dog cool in the summer. To make a refreshing watermelon and yoghurt sorbet, blend chunks of watermelon with plain, unsweetened yoghurt and freeze in a container. This sweet and creamy treat is a healthy way to cool down your furry friend on a hot day.
6. Frozen Chicken Broth Cubes
Chicken broth is a tasty and hydrating treat that most dogs love. To make frozen chicken broth cubes, simply pour chicken broth into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. For added nutrition, you can also mix in some chopped vegetables like carrots or green beans. These frozen treats are easy to make and can be a delicious way to cool down your pup in the summer heat.
7. Sweet Potato and Apple Jerky
Sweet potatoes and apples are both nutrient-dense ingredients that can make a delicious and healthy jerky for your dog. To make sweet potato and apple jerky, thinly slice one sweet potato and one apple and bake in the oven at a low temperature until they are crispy. This crunchy and flavorful snack is sure to be a hit with your furry friend.
8. Frozen Blueberry and Banana Bites
Blueberries and bananas are both tasty and healthy snacks that dogs enjoy. To make frozen blueberry and banana bites, slice a banana into small rounds and place a blueberry on top of each slice. Freeze on a baking sheet until solid. These fruity and refreshing treats are perfect for hot summer days and can be enjoyed by both you and your dog.
By making your own treats at home, you can ensure that your pet is getting a nutritious snack that will keep them cool and hydrated. Whether you make frozen popsicles, ice cream, or jerky, your dog will surely appreciate the effort and love.
In addition to these eight treat ideas, there are many other healthy and creative options that you can make for your dog during the summer months. Here are some additional ideas to consider:
9. Coconut Oil and Berry Frozen Treats
Coconut oil is a great source of healthy fat for dogs, and berries like raspberries and blackberries are low in calories and high in antioxidants. To make these frozen treats, simply mix coconut oil and blended berries together and freeze in a mold. These treats are a tasty way to keep your dog cool and healthy during the summer.
10. Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled chicken and vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers are healthy and flavorful options for dogs. Simply skewer the chicken and veggies and grill until cooked. This protein-rich treat is a great way to bond with your furry friend over a summer barbecue.
11. Frozen Bone Broth Popsicles
Bone broth is a nutrient-dense treat that is great for your dog’s joint health and digestive system. To make frozen bone broth popsicles, simply freeze your homemade bone broth in an ice cube tray or mold. This hydrating and nutritious treat is sure to keep your dog cool and satisfied on a hot summer day.
12. Frozen Tuna Treats
Tuna is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. To make frozen tuna treats, simply blend canned tuna with water or chicken broth and freeze it in an ice cube tray or mold. This savoury and nutritious treat is a great way to keep your dog healthy and cool during the summer.
Conclusion
When making homemade treats for your dog, it’s important to remember that some foods can harm dogs. Avoid using ingredients like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and avocados in your treats, as they can be toxic to dogs.
It’s also important to remember that treats should only make up a small portion of your dog’s diet. To keep your dog healthy and happy, ensure a balanced diet that includes high-quality dog food and plenty of fresh water. But make sure your pet does not consume anything harmful outside the house. You can install dog fences available in Petstop to secure the fences of the house for your pet.
Making your own dog treats at home can be a fun and healthy way to bond with your furry friend during the summer months. Whether you make frozen popsicles, grilled skewers, or bone broth popsicles, your dog will surely appreciate the love and effort you put into their treats. Just remember to use dog-friendly ingredients and provide a balanced diet to keep your pet healthy and happy all summer long.
