During hot summer days, our furry friends also crave a refreshing treat to cool down. Homemade frozen dog treats made with yogurt are not only a delicious way to beat the heat but also provide a healthy snack filled with probiotics and essential nutrients. Yogurt is a great source of calcium and protein, and it’s also good for digestion. Here are a few easy and tasty frozen yogurt dog treat recipes you can make at home.
Benefits of Yogurt for Dogs
- Probiotics: Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that can aid in your dog’s digestive health, promoting a balanced gut flora.
- Calcium and Protein: Yogurt is rich in calcium, which supports strong bones, and protein, which is vital for muscle maintenance.
- Refreshing and Hydrating: Frozen treats help keep your dog hydrated and cool, especially during hot weather.
Peanut Butter Banana Yogurt Bites
These tasty bites combine the creamy richness of yogurt with the natural sweetness of bananas and the nutty flavor of peanut butter. They are a perfect, healthy treat for dogs, offering a delicious combination of flavors and beneficial nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
Instructions:
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the banana, yogurt, and peanut butter. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until fully frozen.
- Serve: Pop out the frozen treats and let your dog enjoy a cool, delicious snack.
Blueberry Yogurt Pops
Refreshing and full of antioxidants, these popsicles mix the tartness of blueberries with smooth yogurt. They’re a great way to give your dog a cooling snack while providing vitamins and probiotics.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/4 cup blueberries
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Mash the blueberries slightly to release some juice.
- Mix Together: Combine the mashed blueberries and yogurt in a bowl.
- Pour into Molds: Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze: Freeze for at least 2 hours until solid.
- Serve: Pop out the frozen treats and give them to your dog for a refreshing snack.
Pumpkin Yogurt Frozen Treats
These treats blend the creamy texture of yogurt with the earthy, nutritious flavor of pumpkin. They’re perfect for a fall-inspired snack that offers digestive benefits and a boost of vitamins.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
- A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the yogurt, pumpkin puree, and ground cinnamon (if using).
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze: Freeze for at least 2 hours or until completely frozen.
- Serve: Pop out the frozen treats and let your dog enjoy.
Berry Banana Yogurt Swirl
Berry Banana Swirl treats combine the antioxidant-rich goodness of berries with the natural sweetness of bananas. These colorful and tasty treats are packed with vitamins and are perfect for a refreshing summer snack.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/4 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- 1/2 ripe banana
Instructions:
- Blend Ingredients: Puree the berries and banana separately.
- Mix with Yogurt: Layer the yogurt with the pureed berries and banana in molds, creating a swirl effect.
- Freeze: Freeze for 2-3 hours until solid.
- Serve: Pop out and serve these colorful treats to your pup.
Coconut Yogurt Delight
Coconut Delight treats are a tropical escape for your dog, combining creamy coconut milk with yogurt. These treats are not only delicious but also great for skin and coat health due to the coconut’s natural oils.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (unsweetened)
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: Combine yogurt, coconut milk, and shredded coconut in a bowl.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze: Freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Serve: Pop out the treats and offer your dog a taste of the tropics.
Carrot and Apple Yogurt Bites
Carrot and Apple Yogurt Bites are a healthy and crunchy treat option, blending the sweetness of apples with the earthy taste of carrots. These treats are packed with vitamins and are a great way to incorporate veggies into your dog’s diet.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- 1/4 cup finely grated carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped apple
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Grate the carrot and chop the apple into small pieces.
- Mix with Yogurt: Combine the yogurt, grated carrot, and apple in a bowl.
- Pour into Molds: Spoon the mixture into molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze: Freeze for 2-3 hours or until solid.
- Serve: Pop out and serve these veggie-packed treats.
Watermelon Yogurt Pops
Watermelon Yogurt Pops are a refreshing and hydrating treat, perfect for hot days. The natural sweetness of watermelon paired with creamy yogurt makes these treats irresistible to dogs.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup seedless watermelon, pureed
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
Instructions:
- Prepare Watermelon: Puree the watermelon until smooth.
- Mix with Yogurt: Mix the watermelon puree with the yogurt.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze: Freeze for at least 2 hours until fully frozen.
- Serve: Pop out the treats and offer a refreshing snack to your pup.
Homemade frozen yogurt dog treats are a wonderful way to provide a refreshing and healthy snack for your canine companion. These treats are easy to make, nutritious, and customizable to your dog’s taste preferences. Always use plain, unsweetened yogurt and ensure any added ingredients are safe for dogs. Try these simple recipes and watch your dog enjoy a cool, delicious treat!