Frozen dog treats are a lifesaver during hot weather and an excellent way to reward your pet while sneaking in healthy ingredients. Whether you’re looking to cool down your furry friend or provide relief during teething, frozen treats are the ultimate pet-parent hack. Here are some frozen dog treat ideas, tips, and creative hacks every pet owner should know to keep their pups happy and healthy year-round.
1. Use Silicone Molds for Easy Portion Control
Silicone molds aren’t just for baking—they’re perfect for creating single-serve frozen dog treats. You can find molds in fun shapes like bones or paws, but even basic ice cube trays work great. Silicone allows for easy pop-out, so there’s no fighting to remove a treat when your dog is impatiently waiting. Plus, you can make a week’s worth in one batch and store them in a freezer bag for later use.
2. The Two-Ingredient Peanut Butter & Banana Treat
One of the easiest frozen treats involves just two ingredients most dog parents already have at home: peanut butter and banana. Simply mash a ripe banana and mix it with a tablespoon or two of xylitol-free peanut butter. Spoon the mix into molds or trays and freeze for a few hours. This combo is not only tasty but packed with potassium and healthy fats.
3. Bone Broth Pupsicles for Joint Health
Bone broth is full of nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen that help maintain joint health in dogs. Pour low-sodium, dog-safe bone broth into ice cube trays or molds and freeze. You can also toss in a few small pieces of cooked chicken or veggies like carrots and green beans for an extra treat.
4. Yogurt-Based Treats with Probiotic Benefits
Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is excellent for dogs in moderation and contains probiotics that support gut health. Mix it with blueberries, strawberries, or even a spoonful of pumpkin purée, then freeze. The texture is creamy and indulgent, making it a favorite among picky eaters. Avoid flavored yogurts or any with artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol.
5. Hydrating Watermelon Cubes
Watermelon is 92% water and makes a super refreshing frozen snack. Cut seedless watermelon into chunks, blend until smooth, and pour into molds to freeze. These treats are especially helpful for hydration during summer and are low in calories. Make sure to remove all seeds and rind before blending.
6. Reusable Lick Mats Turned Into Frozen Fun
Turn a lick mat into a frozen enrichment activity. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter, pumpkin, or yogurt across the mat, then freeze it. It turns into a cooling, lickable puzzle that keeps your dog mentally stimulated while beating the heat. Ideal for anxious dogs who benefit from longer-lasting activities.
7. Frozen Kong Fillings for Hours of Entertainment
Kongs are a go-to for many dog owners, and freezing them makes the experience even more rewarding. Fill a Kong with any combo of banana, pumpkin, peanut butter, or kibble mixed with broth. Pop it in the freezer for a few hours. The result? A long-lasting, brain-teasing treat that helps with boredom and anxiety.
8. Apple and Carrot Ice Pops for Crunchy Texture Lovers
Apples and carrots are low-calorie, high-fiber options that many dogs enjoy. Dice them up, mix with a little water or low-sodium broth, and freeze in molds. These crunchy bites are ideal for dogs who love texture. Always remove apple seeds and core, as they can be harmful.
9. Coconut Oil Cubes for Skin & Coat Health
Coconut oil supports skin and coat health, and many dogs love the taste. Pour melted coconut oil into an ice cube tray and add blueberries or shredded carrots for extra flair. Keep portion sizes small, especially for dogs on lower-fat diets. These are ideal for an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.
10. Pumpkin Popsicles for Digestion
Canned pumpkin (pure pumpkin, not pie filling) is rich in fiber and great for your dog’s digestion. Mix pumpkin with a bit of water or Greek yogurt and freeze into fun shapes. These treats are especially helpful if your pup is experiencing mild tummy issues or irregularity.
11. Herbal Infused Ice Cubes for a Calming Effect
Chamomile and lavender can have calming properties for dogs. Steep a weak herbal tea (chamomile or lavender only—never anything with caffeine or other herbs) and pour into ice trays. These cubes can be added to your dog’s water bowl or served alone during stressful situations like storms or travel.
12. Layered Treats for Variety and Surprise
Add an extra layer of fun by creating multi-layered frozen treats. Start with a layer of yogurt, freeze for an hour, then add a layer of pureed fruit or broth. Continue alternating layers until your mold is full. Dogs will love the different flavors as they chew their way through.
13. Freeze Leftover Wet Food
Don’t let leftover wet dog food go to waste. Scoop small portions into molds and freeze. These are great for quick snacks or as meal toppers on hot days. You can even mix in a few dry kibbles for added texture.
14. Dental Chew Ice Sticks
For teething puppies or dogs that love to gnaw, freeze a water-dampened rope toy or dental chew. It becomes a cold, satisfying way to soothe sore gums and clean teeth at the same time. Just make sure you supervise chewing to avoid any safety risks.
15. Custom Hydration Cubes with Electrolytes
For active dogs or those recovering from illness, you can create frozen hydration cubes using pet-safe electrolyte solutions or diluted Pedialyte (plain, unflavored). Pour into ice trays with a few slices of cucumber or apple for a refreshing twist. Always consult your vet before adding electrolytes to your dog’s diet.
16. Frozen Treat Mix Packs for On-the-Go
If you travel often, keep a stash of pre-mixed frozen treats in small silicone pouches. These can be popped out at rest stops or while visiting friends and family. Ingredients like pureed fruits, peanut butter, and a splash of broth work well for travel-safe formulas.
17. Seasonal Add-Ins: Fall and Summer Treat Themes
Rotate ingredients based on the season to keep things exciting. In summer, focus on hydrating fruits like cucumber, watermelon, and berries. In fall, mix in pumpkin, apples, and a dash of cinnamon (not nutmeg, which is toxic to dogs). This keeps your dog’s treat time aligned with what’s fresh and available.
18. Use Baby Food for Quick Mixes
Organic baby food (single-ingredient, no onion or garlic) can be an excellent base for frozen treats. Flavors like pumpkin, chicken, sweet potato, and peas are generally dog-safe. Just spoon into molds and freeze—no prep needed.
19. Add Supplements to Frozen Treats
If your dog takes daily supplements, freezing them into treats is a smart workaround for picky eaters. Whether it’s a glucosamine capsule, fish oil, or a probiotic powder, mix it with yogurt or broth and freeze it for sneaky administration.
20. Store Treats Properly for Freshness
To prevent freezer burn and keep your frozen dog treats fresh, store them in airtight containers or resealable bags. Label each with the treat type and date made. Most treats last up to 2–3 weeks when stored properly, but always give them a sniff before serving.
Frozen dog treats aren’t just trendy—they’re practical, customizable, and great for your dog’s physical and mental health. Whether you’re using them to reward good behavior, soothe a teething puppy, or help your dog chill out during the summer, these hacks make treat time healthier and a lot more fun.
Leave a Reply