This DIY Frozen Treats for Dogs guide is exactly what every loving pet parent needs this summer.
First Posted June 16, 2025 | Last Updated on March 23, 2026 by Pet Friendly RecipesIf you have ever wondered how to keep your pup cool and happy during hot weather, you are in the right place.
These simple, vet-approved recipes use ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
TL;DR
| Recipe Type | Cooling Dog Treats |
| For | Dogs (all sizes) |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Freeze Time | 2-4 hours |
| Yield | 12-15 treats |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Vet Approved | Yes ✓ |
Why These Frozen Treats Are Good for Your Dog
Summer heat can be dangerous for dogs, and frozen treats are one of the safest ways to help them cool down. These homemade treats can lower your dog’s body temperature by 10-15 degrees, according to the ASPCA’s hot weather safety guidelines. The hydrating ingredients like watermelon and low-sodium broth help replace fluids lost through panting.
Unlike store-bought treats that often contain artificial preservatives and excess sugar, these homemade versions let you control every ingredient. The American Kennel Club recommends natural ingredients like plain yogurt and fresh fruits for their nutritional benefits and digestibility.
Before You Start
- Silicone molds, ice cube trays, or popsicle molds
- Blender or food processor (for smooth treats)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Freezer-safe storage containers
Basic Frozen Treat Recipes
Watermelon Yogurt Treats
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
Chicken Broth Ice Cubes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup diced apple (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped carrots (optional)
Banana Peanut Butter Pops
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare your molds. Clean all molds thoroughly and set them on a flat surface in the freezer.
- Make watermelon treats. Blend watermelon and yogurt until smooth. Pour into molds and freeze for 2-3 hours.
- Create broth cubes. Mix broth with diced fruits or vegetables if using. Fill ice cube trays and freeze for 2-4 hours.
- Blend banana pops. Mash bananas with peanut butter and water until creamy. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for 3-4 hours.
- Remove from molds. Run warm water over the bottom of molds for 10-15 seconds to release treats easily.
Serving Size by Weight
| Dog Weight | Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Under 10 lbs | 1 small treat per day |
| 10-25 lbs | 1-2 medium treats per day |
| 25-50 lbs | 2-3 medium treats per day |
| 50-75 lbs | 3-4 large treats per day |
| 75+ lbs | 4-5 large treats per day |
These are general guidelines only. Dogs with health conditions or weight management needs should have portions approved by their veterinarian.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the wrong peanut butter. Always check labels for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Choose natural, unsalted varieties only.
Making treats too large. Big frozen treats can be choking hazards and may cause brain freeze. Size treats appropriately for your dog.
Giving too many at once. These are treats, not meals. Too many can upset your dog’s stomach or add unwanted calories.
Forgetting to supervise. Always watch your dog with frozen treats, especially if they are aggressive chewers.
Test the firmness before serving. If treats are too hard, let them sit at room temperature for 2-3 minutes. Your dog should be able to lick and chew safely.
Making Larger Batches
Double recipes easily. Most ingredients scale up perfectly. Use larger mixing bowls and make sure you have enough mold space.
Prep ingredients in advance. Wash and chop fruits and vegetables when you have time. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Batch freeze efficiently. Make different flavors on the same day. Label containers with the recipe and date for easy identification.
Storage for busy weeks. These treats keep for up to 3 months in the freezer, perfect for hot summer days ahead.
Substitutions and Add-Ons
Fruit Swaps
Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants and naturally sweet. Use 1/2 cup per batch.
Cantaloupe – High water content like watermelon. Remove seeds and rind completely.
Strawberries – Remove tops and dice small. Great source of vitamin C.
Protein Additions
Plain cooked chicken – Shred finely and mix into broth-based treats. Let cool completely first.
Bone broth – Use homemade or store-bought low-sodium versions. Adds extra flavor dogs love.
Healthy Boosters
Coconut water – Natural electrolytes for extra hydration. Use unsweetened varieties only.
Fresh parsley – Finely chopped, helps freshen breath naturally.
Grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, or anything containing xylitol. These are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems.
Storage Tips
Freezer storage. Keep treats in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with recipe and date.
Prevent freezer burn. Wrap individual treats in parchment paper before storing in containers for longer freshness.
Quick-serve method. Store a few treats in a separate container near the front of your freezer for easy daily access.
Thawing safely. Let treats soften for 2-3 minutes at room temperature if they are too hard. Never microwave frozen dog treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I give my dog these frozen treats?
These treats work well as daily summer refreshers, but limit to 1-3 per day depending on your dog’s size. They should not replace regular meals or make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Can puppies have frozen treats?
Yes, puppies over 12 weeks can enjoy these treats in smaller portions. Make sure treats are appropriately sized to prevent choking, and introduce new ingredients gradually to watch for any digestive upset.
What if my dog has food allergies?
Stick to single-ingredient treats if your dog has known allergies. For example, use just watermelon and water, or just chicken broth. Always consult your vet before introducing new ingredients to dogs with severe food sensitivities.
Why won’t my dog eat the frozen treats?
Some dogs need time to warm up to new textures. Try letting treats thaw slightly or offering smaller pieces first. You can also try different flavors – some dogs prefer savory broth treats over sweet fruit ones.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Plain regular yogurt works fine, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creates better texture. Never use yogurt with artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, which is dangerous for dogs.
How do I know if a treat is too hard?
If you cannot easily indent the treat with your finger after it has been out for 2-3 minutes, it may be too hard. Let it thaw a bit more, or add more liquid to your next batch for softer results.
Are these treats safe for senior dogs?
Yes, but senior dogs may need softer textures. Let treats thaw longer or make them with more liquid ingredients. If your senior dog has dental issues, you might want to try our soft senior dog treat recipes instead.
Final Thoughts
These DIY Frozen Treats for Dogs are one of the easiest ways to show your pup you care during hot summer days.
You get complete control over every ingredient, which means peace of mind and a happier, cooler dog.
Make a batch this weekend and watch your furry friend’s tail wag with pure joy.
Ryan Conlon is the founder of PetFriendlyRecipes.com, a resource dedicated to helping pet owners create simple, healthy meals and treats at home. With a background in web publishing and a focus on practical content, Ryan built the site to make homemade pet food easier to understand and more accessible for everyone.
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