5 frozen dog treat ideas for keeping cool this summer

When the sun’s shining, us humans instinctively reach for an ice cream or fan to stay cool. But what about our canine companions? 

Keeping your dog hydrated and making sure they’ve got plenty of shade is a given. But tasty frozen dog treats are also a simple and refreshing way to help them keep their cool.

From frozen dog lick mat ideas to DIY doggy ice cream, we’ve rounded up some fun and easy frozen dog treat recipes to keep tails wagging all summer long! And maybe, just maybe, stop them eyeing up your Mr. Whippy!  

Frozen dog treat safety tips

Frozen dog treats are fun and safe for dogs, provided you follow a few simple rules: 

• Make them with dog-safe ingredients. Steer clear of potentially harmful ingredients for dogs like chocolate, xylitol, grapes or added sugars, and stick to dog-friendly fruits, vegetables and simple fridge favourites.
• Fed them in moderation. Because no one needs to deal with a dodgy tummy on a hot day!
• Always supervise your dog when feeding them frozen treats to help prevent choking.
• Do NOT feed them to a dog showing signs of heatstroke. Prioritise cooling them as quickly as possible by:
  • Taking them to a cool place
  • Encouraging them to sip water
  • Gently pouring cooler water on them and using a fan if possible.

Once these steps have been taken, speak to a vet as soon as possible.

Frozen dog treat recipes

Let's get into it! Frozen dog treat recipes aren’t just delicious, they’re easy to make and you probably already have the ingredients at home.

1. Frozen carrots

Simple, nutritious, and perfect for hot days, frozen carrots for dogs are a super-easy summer treat.

Method:

• Clean and chop the carrot into appropriate-sized pieces for your dog. You’ll be the best judge of this
• Once fully frozen, leave it out for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly before serving

Frozen carrots aren’t just cooling, they’re also packed with vitamins, great for dental health, and are a low-calorie snack for dogs watching their waistlines. 

Pro tip: Shop-bought, ready-sliced frozen carrots work just as well. Remember to let them soften for 5-10 minutes before serving. 

2. Doggy ice cream

Human ice cream isn’t recommended for dogs, so why not make your own? It’s easy and doesn’t take long. 

Method:

• Blend plain, unsweetened yoghurt with a ripe banana and a handful of dog-safe fruits like blueberries or strawberries
• Pour the mixture into silicone moulds or an ice cube tray and freeze until solid

Pro tip: Try blending frozen cantaloupe melon for a refreshing sorbet or add a dollop of yoghurt and a small drizzle of honey for a creamier texture. Share a scoop with your best friend and help keep them cool while you enjoy the summer sunshine together!

For more ideas, check out our dog ice cream recipes.

3. Frozen lick mats

Frozen lick mats are an excellent option for slowing down speedy eaters or keeping dogs entertained. 

Method:

• Spread a dog-friendly paste onto a rubber lick mat. Yoghurt, kefir, or peanut butter are fantastic choices. Just remember to use low-salt versions with no xylitol
• Sprinkle fun extras like fresh blueberries, chopped carrots, or small training treats
• Freeze the mat and hand it over to your furry friend when solid

Pro tip: Frozen treat mats are a great way to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated when it’s too hot to go for walks.

4. Chicken popsicles

If your dog is more of a savoury fan. These easy-freeze lollies are a winner. 

Method:

• Stir together 240ml low-salt chicken stock, 120ml of water and 50g of finely chopped chicken then pour into moulds or an ice tray
• Position 4 long dog biscuits or carrot sticks to act as handles
• Freeze for 4-6 hours

Pro tip: For an extra treat, add in small pieces of chopped carrot or apple.

5. Frozen peanut butter treats for dogs

Lots of dogs love a dollop of peanut butter, and who can blame them? Before we get into this one, here’s what to bear in mind.

• Many shop-bought peanut butters contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Buy dog-friendly peanut butter and always triple-check the ingredients.
• Frozen peanut butter treats for dogs taste great, but they’re also high in calories, so remember to adjust the rest of your pet’s daily food intake accordingly.

Method:

• Blend a low-salt, dog-friendly peanut butter with a splash of water, yoghurt, or milk. Add a ripe banana and mix until smooth
• Pour the mix into an ice cube tray or small moulds and freeze until firm

Pro tip: Frozen peanut butter treats make a tasty bite-sized reward during training sessions. 

Beat the heat

Helping your dog stay cool isn’t just about keeping them comfortable – it’s an essential part of keeping them healthy. Frozen treats can be a fun, safe and refreshing way to help them beat the heat while staying happy and hydrated. 

To make the most of these treats, focus on using dog-friendly ingredients, serving the right portions, and always ensuring fresh water is available. 

For more tips, read 10 tips on how to cool your dog down this summer.