The Best DIY Summer Treats to Keep Your Dog Cool and Happy
Summer in Australia means sunshine, beach days, and plenty of outdoor fun. It also means warmer temperatures that can be tough on our dogs, especially during playtime or after a long walk. Keeping your dog cool, hydrated, and comfortable is essential during the hotter months.
Summer Dog Treat Recipes
At Pet Resorts Australia, we love finding simple ways to keep tails wagging all summer long. One of our favourite tricks is offering frozen, pet safe treats that are both refreshing and nutritious. We’ve compiled some of our favourite recipes for you to try at home!
Frozen Peanut Butter & Banana Bites
These bite sized treats are a dog favourite. They are creamy, naturally sweet, and full of goodness. Bananas provide potassium and vitamins, while peanut butter offers healthy fats and protein. Always make sure your peanut butter is xylitol free.
Ingredients
1 ripe banana
2 tablespoons xylitol free peanut butter
2 tablespoons plain yoghurt
Instructions
Mash the ripe banana until smooth.
Add the peanut butter and yoghurt and mix well.
Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone moulds.
Freeze for several hours until solid.
Perfect for a cooling snack after a walk or a gentle play session.
Pineapple and Coconut Ice Cubes
This tropical inspired treat is light, refreshing, and hydrating. Pineapple contains vitamins and antioxidants, while coconut water helps support hydration on hot days. This recipe is suitable for dogs and can be offered in small portions.
Ingredients
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 cup coconut water
Instructions
1. Blend the pineapple and coconut water until smooth.
2. Pour into ice cube trays.
3. Freeze until solid.
These cubes are especially lovely on extra warm afternoons.
Frozen Beef Broth Cubes
For dogs who prefer savoury flavours, these meaty ice cubes are a big hit. They are great for hydration and ideal after exercise. Always choose a low sodium broth with no added onion or garlic.
Ingredients
1 cup low sodium beef stock
1 cup water
Instructions
Mix the broth and water together.
Pour into an ice cube tray or lick mat (or for something completely biodegradable, pour into a hollowed out cucumber and freeze!
Freeze for several hours until firm.
These are simple, satisfying, and perfect for licking on hot days.
Strawberry Yoghurt Pops
Strawberries are packed with antioxidants and fibre, while plain yoghurt supports digestion and gut health. This refreshing treat is suitable for dogs and can also be shared with cats in moderation.
Ingredients
1 cup plain Greek yoghurt
½ cup fresh strawberries, diced
Instructions
1. Blend the yoghurt and strawberries until smooth.
2. Pour into ice cube trays or small moulds.
3. Freeze until solid.
A sweet little treat that feels like a summer dessert.
Pumpkin & Coconut Milk Frozen Treats
Pumpkin is gentle on the tummy and supports digestion, while coconut milk adds a creamy texture and hydration. Make sure the coconut milk is unsweetened and free from additives.
Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened canned pumpkin (or mashed fresh pumpkin)
1 cup coconut milk
Instructions
Blend the pumpkin and coconut milk until smooth.
Pour into an ice cube tray.
Freeze until firm.
These are especially great for dogs who enjoy earthy flavours.
Apple & Peanut Butter Frozen Sandwiches
Crunchy, fun, and full of goodness, these frozen apple sandwiches make a wonderful enrichment treat. Apples provide vitamins and fibre, and peanut butter adds protein and flavour.
Ingredients
2 apples, cored and sliced into rings
Xylitol free peanut butter
Instructions
Spread a thin layer of peanut butter between two apple slices.
Place the sandwiches on a baking tray.
Freeze for a few hours until firm.
Always supervise while your dog enjoys crunchy frozen treats.
At Pet Resorts Australia, your dog’s comfort and happiness are always our priority. These simple summer recipes are a lovely way to keep them cool, content, and feeling loved all season long.