It’s early July in Indiana and the sun is blaring down on you as you finish eating some of your favorite tasty watermelon and strawberry popsicles. You look over at your dog and notice they’re feeling the heat too- tongue out, flopped over in your yard, worn out from the twelve times they’ve already played in the doggie pool you set up for them. You start to wonder, “Hm, if only there were some dog-friendly alternatives to these refreshing summer treats.”

Well, you would be in luck! Chances are, if your dog has a favorite snack, there is definitely a frozen version of it. Perfect for cooling down in the summer, but nothing too hefty that it would spoil their dinner. Here are just a few homemade treats we’ve found online that your dog will love, and also give you something fun to do during these hot summer days.

1. Watermelon Pupsicles

Have watermelon and Greek yogurt in your house? That’s all you need to make this creamy, yummy, treat for your pooch! Learn how to make these watermelon pupsicles here. The website also provides a helpful link on where to buy a dog bone mold for when you make them.

2. Mint Froyo

Greek yogurt, fresh mint, and a touch of honey. Just three simple ingredients to cool your dog down AND freshen their breath. Who wouldn’t want that? Mint is known to be a powerful anti-bacterial that will aid in preventing bacteria from developing in a dog’s mouth. Get this minty-fresh recipe to satisfy your dog (and their breath) here.

3. Frozen Kong Recipes

There’s tons of unique, simple, frozen Kong recipes that will make your dog happy. They’re all healthy, dog-friendly, and super easy to make. You just mix the ingredients together, fill the Kong toy with the mixture, and freeze! Simple as that. Here is a small list of frozen Kong recipes you can make here.

4. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Ice Cream

The pumpkin and yogurt in this recipe are not only good for a dogs digestive system, but every dog loves peanut butter. Cool them down with some refreshing ice cream. The article recommends using freezer-safe cups, which you can find linked in the article. Learn how to make this homemade ice cream for your dog here.

5. Frosty Paws Popsicles

Using bananas, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt, your pup can be chowing down on these yummy popsicle-like treats! Put the ingredients in a blender or food processor, place them in molds, (using a milk-bone as the stick), and freeze them! Learn more about how to make these fun doggie popsicles here.

When our dogs feel good, we feel good. Take some time during these hot Indy summer days to experiment with some fun DIY recipes in the comfort of your own home. Although your dog might beg for more, it’s also important to remember these treats should be given in moderation! One or two tasty summer treats is the recommended amount to keep your dog feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle on the rest of the day. Summer treats are for dogs too, not just humans!

 

Check out these holiday treats just for dogs that make the perfect addition to gift bags and family parties.

Tiki is ready for the holidays and waiting for some yummy dog treats.

Tiki is ready for the holidays and waiting for some yummy dog treats.

It’s holiday baking time, and while you’re thinking about all those yummy recipes sure to please even the most finicky of human guests, don’t forget about your furry friends. Yes, dogs love special treats too! In fact, Tiki, our Good Dog Hotel & Spa Ambassador, has some special suggestions that will add a little spice to your holiday preparations.

Take a look at these pooch-friendly delights, and from our family to yours, have a joyous and safe holiday.

Apple Mint Dog Christmas Cookies: You’ll find plenty of dog treat inspiration on the Best Dog Treat Recipes website, including Apple Mint Dog Christmas Cookies. These mint flavored mini-bones are made with applesauce and look festive. And not only are they tasty, the ingredient mint aids digestion and helps control bad dog breath.

Christmas Turkey Trees: This holiday treat provides some variety in flavors, as opposed to the sweetness of other holiday dog cookies. The ingredients for Christmas Turkey Trees include fresh ground turkey, dried oregano and garlic powder, so you know your dog is going to love it.

Christmas Cookie Dog Treats: If you’re a fan of cookie cutters, you’ll love this Christmas Cookie Dog Treat recipe. Featuring peanut butter and Greek yogurt, these adorable shapes will be a sure-fire dog pleaser.

Gingerbread Dog Cookies: From the website Gone to the Snow Dogs, this Gingerbread Dog Cookies recipe is super easy, and perfect for bagged gifts – whether for your neighborhood canines or a local animal shelter. And the smells of cinnamon, ginger and molasses will have your house smelling just like the holidays.

Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats: Here’s a three-in-one bonus, as this Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treat recipe can be used, with variations, to also make Sweet Potato and Apple Carrot Treats.

Peppermint Pinwheel Dog Treats: There’s nothing like the smell and flavor of peppermint to get you in the holiday spirit. Peppermint Pinwheel Dog Treats are a colorful delight, and the perfect touch for doggie gift bags.

Snickerdoodles Dog Biscuits: This Snickerdoodles recipe for dog biscuits is an easy one, and a classic must-have for pooch gatherings during the holidays (or any other time, for that matter).

What are your favorite dog treat recipes?

Tiki is always looking for new recipes, especially during the holidays. Which is why he wants to know about your favorite dog treat concoctions. Please share your thoughts and suggestions below.