Healthy cooling snacks for summer dogs

Summer can be a challenging time for dogs due to the heat, so it’s important to provide them with cooling treats that help them stay refreshed and hydrated. Here are some healthy cooling snack ideas for dogs to keep them cool, comfortable, and happy during the warmer months:

1. Frozen Watermelon Bites

Watermelon is a hydrating and healthy snack for dogs. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, and B6, and is low in calories. To make frozen watermelon bites:

• Cut watermelon into small, bite-sized cubes, removing any seeds and rind.

• Place the cubes on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours.

• Serve as a refreshing frozen treat that your dog will love!

2. Frozen Yogurt Pops

Yogurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics for dogs, which can aid digestion. Make a simple frozen yogurt pop:

• Use plain, unsweetened yogurt (avoid flavored or sugar-laden versions).

• Add a few dog-safe fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or bananas.

• Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays and freeze.

• Pop out the frozen treats for a cooling and nutritious snack.

3. Cucumber Slices

Cucumbers are not only cooling but also low in calories and high in water content, making them an excellent choice for hot days. Simply slice the cucumber and serve as a crunchy, hydrating snack. You can even freeze cucumber slices for an extra chilly treat.

4. Carrot and Apple Popsicles

Carrots and apples are both healthy snack options for dogs, and they make for a great frozen popsicle combination:

• Blend carrots and apples together with water or low-sodium chicken broth.

• Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or molds and freeze until solid.

• These popsicles are low in calories and provide a satisfying crunch that dogs love.

5. Banana and Peanut Butter Ice Cubes

Bananas are high in potassium and easy on the stomach, while peanut butter is a favorite treat for many dogs (ensure it’s xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs). To make banana and peanut butter ice cubes:

• Blend a ripe banana with a spoonful of peanut butter.

• Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze.

• Serve the cubes as a refreshing, creamy snack to cool down your dog on a hot day.

6. Pupsicles

These frozen dog-friendly treats are a great way to keep your pup entertained while cooling off. You can make your own pupsicles by:

• Combining low-sodium chicken broth, pumpkin puree, and a few pieces of your dog’s favorite veggies.

• Pour the mixture into molds and freeze.

• These treats are rich in vitamins and nutrients, and the broth helps keep your dog hydrated while giving them something flavorful to enjoy.

7. Coconut Water Ice Cubes

Coconut water is packed with electrolytes, which can be beneficial for hydration. Freeze coconut water in ice cube trays for a natural and cooling snack. You can even add small pieces of dog-friendly fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, to the cubes before freezing.

8. Chilled Sweet Potato Chews

Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin A, making them a healthy snack option for dogs. To make chilled sweet potato chews:

• Bake or steam a sweet potato until soft.

• Slice it into thin, chewable strips.

• Place the strips in the fridge to chill, and serve as a cool, chewy snack.

9. Pumpkin Ice Cubes

Pumpkin is not only tasty but also great for digestion and overall health. To make pumpkin ice cubes:

• Mix canned pumpkin puree (plain, not spiced) with water or low-sodium broth.

• Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze.

• These cubes can be served as a hydrating treat that aids digestion, especially during hot weather.

10. Frozen Blueberry Treats

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and are a great addition to any dog’s diet. For a cool and refreshing snack, freeze whole blueberries and serve them as a treat. You can also combine them with yogurt or peanut butter and freeze the mixture for a more elaborate treat.

11. Frozen Broth Cubes

Dogs love savory treats just as much as sweet ones. Make frozen broth cubes by freezing low-sodium chicken or beef broth in an ice cube tray. These frozen treats provide hydration and a burst of flavor, perfect for hot summer days.

12. Frozen Apple Slices

Apples are low in calories and contain fiber, making them an ideal snack for dogs. Slice an apple into thin pieces, remove the seeds and core, and freeze them for a crunchy, refreshing treat. The frozen apple slices will help cool your dog down while providing a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.

13. Chilled Carrot Sticks

Carrots are a crunchy, low-calorie snack that can be given raw or chilled. Simply wash and cut the carrots into sticks, then place them in the fridge for an hour or so before serving. Carrots are full of beta-carotene and fiber, making them a healthy snack to cool down your dog.

14. Frozen Pumpkin and Yogurt Mix

A combination of pumpkin and yogurt can make for a cool, nutritious treat. Blend plain yogurt with pumpkin puree and freeze the mixture in silicone molds. These treats are rich in fiber and probiotics and can be great for dogs with digestive issues.

15. Chilled Zucchini Slices

Zucchini is a low-calorie, hydrating vegetable that dogs love. Slice it into thin rounds and place it in the fridge to chill. You can even freeze the zucchini slices for an extra cooling effect. Zucchini is full of vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent summer snack for your dog.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your dog cool during the summer months is essential, and providing healthy, refreshing snacks is a great way to do that. These cooling treats not only help hydrate your dog but also offer nutritional benefits that support their overall health. Remember to always keep an eye on portion sizes, especially with treats, and avoid using ingredients that may be harmful to dogs, such as grapes, raisins, and xylitol.

By preparing these easy-to-make cooling snacks, you can ensure your dog stays cool, happy, and healthy all summer long!