Frozen Treats For Dogs

These frozen strawberry and banana smoothie bites have become my pup's favorite summer treat, offering a nutritious way to help them cool down during hot days while giving them something delicious to enjoy.

I started making these treats last summer when my Golden Retriever was panting excessively during our heatwave. After seeing how eagerly he gobbled them up, they've become our go-to reward during training sessions year-round.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries these provide natural sweetness and are packed with vitamins and antioxidants beneficial for your dog's immune system
• Ripe banana adds creaminess and natural sweetness while providing potassium and fiber for healthy digestion
• Plain unsweetened yogurt offers probiotics for gut health and creates the perfect creamy base look for products without artificial sweeteners
• Honey completely optional natural sweetener that dogs love use sparingly as dogs need limited sugar in their diet

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fruits

Hull and chop the strawberries into small pieces to ensure they blend smoothly. Peel and slice the banana into chunks. Using fresh, ripe fruits will give the best flavor and nutrition for your pup.

Blend Everything Together

Place all ingredients in your blender including the strawberries, banana, yogurt, and honey if using. Blend on high speed until completely smooth with no chunks remaining, which usually takes about 30-45 seconds. The consistency should be pourable but thick.

Fill the Molds

Pour the smoothie mixture carefully into silicone molds or ice cube trays, filling each cavity about 90% full to allow for slight expansion during freezing. Tap the molds gently against your counter several times to release any air bubbles trapped in the mixture.

Freeze Until Solid

Place the filled molds in the freezer on a flat surface and freeze for at least 2 hours. For best results, leave them overnight to ensure they're completely frozen through the center.

Serve and Store

Pop the frozen treats out of the molds by gently pressing on the bottom of each cavity. Serve immediately to your excited pup or store in an airtight container in the freezer for later enjoyment.

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The first time I made these treats, my dog actually stood by the freezer for an hour waiting for them to be ready. The combination of strawberry and banana seems to be irresistible to dogs, which makes sense since both fruits have natural sweetness that appeals to their taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

These frozen treats work best when given outdoors or in areas where a bit of melting won't cause issues. For smaller dogs, you might want to let the treat thaw for about 5 minutes before serving to prevent them from being too hard. I find that presenting these treats in a special "treat bowl" gets my dog even more excited, creating a positive association with healthy snacks rather than store-bought options.

Storage Tips

While these treats will keep for up to two months in the freezer, they're best when consumed within the first two weeks for optimal freshness and flavor. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers if you're stacking them. Label the container with the date they were made so you can keep track of freshness. I typically make double batches and portion them into weekly containers for easy access.

Safety Considerations

Always supervise your dog when giving frozen treats to prevent choking hazards, especially with smaller dogs. If your dog has diabetes or weight issues, consult with your veterinarian before offering treats containing fruits, as they do contain natural sugars. Remove the treats from silicone molds only when you're ready to serve them, as they melt relatively quickly at room temperature. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, introduce these treats gradually, starting with half a portion to ensure they tolerate the ingredients well.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well in this recipe. Just thaw them slightly before blending to achieve a smoother consistency. Using frozen fruit may actually help the treats freeze faster.

→ Are these treats safe for puppies?

These treats are generally safe for puppies over 6 months old. For younger puppies, consult with your veterinarian first, and consider using smaller portions as their digestive systems are still developing.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt if my dog is lactose intolerant?

For lactose-intolerant dogs, substitute yogurt with coconut milk, unsweetened almond milk, or simply water. Some dogs tolerate Greek yogurt better than regular yogurt due to its lower lactose content.

→ How often can I give these treats to my dog?

These should be occasional treats rather than daily food items. Follow the 10% rule - treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. For most dogs, 1-2 small bites every few days is appropriate.

→ Can I add other fruits to the mixture?

Yes, but be careful to only use dog-safe fruits. Good additions include blueberries, apple pieces (no seeds), or watermelon (no seeds or rind). Avoid grapes, raisins, cherries, and citrus fruits which can be toxic to dogs.

→ How do I know if the treats are too cold for my dog?

Some dogs may be sensitive to very cold items. If your dog seems uncomfortable, let the treat soften at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving. Always supervise your dog when eating frozen treats to prevent choking.