Cool, safe, and sweet ways to treat your dog without the guilt
Summer’s here, and that means long walks, splashy backyard fun, and icy desserts. But what about our four-legged best friends? You’d be surprised how many delicious, pet-friendly treats you can whip up that are just as safe as they are satisfying. Whether you’ve got a pup with a sweet tooth or a curious kitty, these summer desserts will have tails wagging and tongues (both human and furry) licking in delight. Ready to share your dessert bowl?
1. Frozen Watermelon Bites
Frozen watermelon cubes are a refreshing hit with dogs and humans alike. They’re 92% water, packed with vitamins A and C, and naturally low in calories. Just remove the seeds and rind, then blend and freeze in silicone molds for a bite-sized summer snack. It’s a hydrating treat perfect for hot days. According to the AKC, watermelon is safe for dogs in moderation and can help keep them cool.
2. Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream
Bananas and unsweetened peanut butter come together to make a creamy, pet-safe ice cream. Simply blend frozen banana slices with a spoon of peanut butter (xylitol-free, of course). The result? A dairy-free dessert you and your pup can enjoy together. Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, while peanut butter provides healthy fats.
3. Blueberry Yogurt Pupsicles
Blend plain Greek yogurt with fresh blueberries, pour into popsicle molds, and freeze. This probiotic-rich dessert supports your dog’s gut health and adds antioxidant power from the berries. Just make sure the yogurt has no artificial sweeteners, which can be dangerous to pets. Blueberries are known to support brain function and are safe for dogs in small amounts.
4. Apple Cinnamon Bites
Chop up some apples (no seeds or core), mix with plain oats and a dash of cinnamon, and freeze them into bite-sized treats. Apples provide vitamin C and dietary fiber, and cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar. Just keep it minimal because too much cinnamon can irritate your pet’s mouth.
5. Pumpkin Pops
Mix canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) with a bit of water or plain yogurt, freeze in ice cube trays, and serve up a healthy summer cool-down. Pumpkin is great for your dog’s digestion and adds a creamy texture pets love. It’s also rich in beta-carotene and low in fat.
6. Coconut Banana Bites
Mash a ripe banana and mix with unsweetened shredded coconut, then roll into small balls and chill in the fridge. These no-bake treats are safe for dogs, delicious for humans, and loaded with fiber and potassium. Coconut also offers anti-inflammatory benefits but should be fed in moderation to avoid upset tummies.
7. Strawberry Chia Freezies
Blend strawberries with a little water and chia seeds, pour into molds, and freeze. Strawberries are low in sugar and high in antioxidants, and chia seeds help boost omega-3 intake and fiber. These make a slightly chewy, icy treat for pups and people alike, perfect for a hot afternoon under the sun.
8. Carrot Apple “Cookies”
Grate some carrots and apples, mix with oat flour and coconut oil, shape into small cookies, and bake until golden. These crunchy, naturally sweet bites are loaded with vitamins and safe for both dogs and their humans. Just make sure no added sugar or nutmeg sneaks into the recipe because they’re not pet-safe.
9. Frozen Chicken Broth Cubes
Not all summer treats need to be sweet. Freeze low-sodium, pet-safe chicken broth with bits of carrot or sweet potato for a savory popsicle. These icy snacks hydrate, cool, and satisfy your pup’s craving for something meaty. And yes, you can taste it but maybe add a pinch of salt for yourself.
10. Honeydew Melon Cubes
Fresh honeydew, once deseeded and sliced, is a hydrating treat that’s both safe and satisfying for pets. It’s high in water content and vitamin C, making it a smart snack to share. Just limit portions for pets since melon can be sugary and sometimes cause tummy troubles in large amounts.
11. Oat and Yogurt Frozen Buttons
Mix plain yogurt with a little ground oat flour and a dash of mashed fruit, then spoon small dollops onto a tray and freeze. These “buttons” melt in your mouth and are gentle on your pet’s digestive system. Stick to unsweetened yogurt and avoid grapes or raisins, which are toxic to dogs.
12. Sweet Potato Mash Pops
Bake a sweet potato, scoop out the flesh, and blend with water or goat milk before freezing. This vitamin-rich treat is sweet, soft, and perfect for sensitive stomachs. Sweet potatoes are a common ingredient in high-quality dog food and can be a fantastic way to cool down after a walk.
13. Doggy S’mores
Make a campfire-style treat with dog-safe ingredients. Use a thin layer of peanut butter between two plain dog biscuits with a banana slice in the middle. It’s a crunchy-soft combo that looks like a s’more and tastes even better to your pup. Avoid chocolate completely and keep it as a special occasion dessert.
Got a furry friend with a summer sweet tooth? Try one of these pet-friendly desserts and let us know their favorite! Share your photos, swaps, or even your own pet-safe recipe ideas with us. Your pup might just become the next dessert critic of the neighborhood!
