Like us, dogs love to cool off in the summer. Regular popsicles are not a good idea, but with these two simple recipes, you can make healthy dog popsicles that are safe, delicious and refreshing. Bonus: ideal for puppies who are changing teeth.
Before you begin: safe ice cream for dogs
Do not use sugar- or sweetener-rich products (watch out for xylitol), introduce new ingredients slowly and give ice creams in moderation. Let frozen snacks warm up briefly or rinse them under the faucet so lips or tongue don't stick.
Recipe 1: Banana peanut butter popsicles (with yogurt)
What you need
- 540 ml of low-fat (unsweetened) yogurt
- 100 g peanut butter (100% peanut, without salt/sugar/xylitol)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 tbsp. honey (optional, omit for sensitive stomachs)
- Dog cookies as "sticks" (optional)
Supplies: blender or stand mixer, batter bowl, plastic or paper cups.
- Put yogurt, peanut butter, banana and possibly honey in a bowl.
- Mix until smooth.
- Pour into cups and insert a dog cookie as a stick.
- Freeze overnight.
- Remove the cup, allow 2-3 minutes to warm and serve.
Recipe 2: Tuna special (dairy-light, also cat favorite)
Tip: this variety is often liked by cats as well.
What you need
- 1 can of tuna on water (±170 g, drained)
- 225 g low-fat (unsweetened) yogurt or replace part/all with some water or low-sodium broth for less dairy
Supplies: blender or hand blender, batter bowl, ice cube mold or silicone mold.
- Put tuna and (optional) yogurt in a bowl. Add a splash of water if necessary.
- Mix until smooth with small pieces.
- Fill an ice cream mold and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Allow to warm briefly and give small portions.
Important tips on dog ice cream
- Always serve outside or in an easy-to-clean area.
- Let your dog lick or bite off small pieces; avoid swallowing all at once.
- Introduce dairy slowly; if necessary, choose low-lactose yogurt or a yogurt-free variety.
- For sensitive gastrointestinal system: give small amounts and observe reaction.
- Allow for extra calories in daily rations.
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