21 Pupsicle Recipes to Make at Home
Preparing meals and treats for my furry baby is one of those rare domestic chores that brings me joy. Yes, the planning and prep takes time and effort but there is immense comfort in knowing that I’m feeding my pet food that nourishes his body, and watching him gulp it all down like he cannot get enough makes it all worthwhile. Of all the different things I’ve tried my hands on over the years, cooling, refreshing homemade dog popsicles are my favorite.
It’s fun coming up with new ways to blend different ingredients together to whip up treats that not only help my pooch cool down on a hot summer’s day but also tickle his taste buds. So, I thought, why not spread the joy by sharing some of the most versatile and easiest pupsicle recipes for dogs that you can prepare in a matter of minutes.
Table of Contents
5 Benefits of Pupsicles for Dogs
Hot days and summer months are harsh on dogs. Since their bodies have limited ability to regulate temperature, our canine companions are at a far greater risk of dehydration, respiratory distress, and in extreme cases, even a heatstroke. That’s why experts often emphasize the importance of hydration, especially in warm weather.
As Dr. Karen Becker, an integrative wellness veterinarian, states, “Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, dry skin, and reduced energy levels in dogs. Providing moisture-rich foods and encouraging water intake is crucial.” Dr. Marty Goldstein, a holistic veterinarian, echoes a similar thought, and adds, “Dogs don’t always drink enough water on their own, so finding creative ways to boost hydration, like frozen treats, is a great strategy.”
That’s why DIY frozen dog treats are more than just a fun indulgence; they come with a host of real, tangible benefits that support your pup’s overall well-being. Let’s dive in and explore what these benefits are:
1. Keeps your dog hydrated
Since homemade dog popsicles are primarily made with water, bone broth, or fruit purees, they’re a great way to get more fluids into your pet’s system—be it to replenish the loss of bodily fluids due to hot weather or because your pooch isn’t big on drinking water. Think of them as your dog’s version of a refreshing smoothie on a scorching afternoon.
2. Provides mental stimulation
Licking and chewing on these DIY frozen dog treats engages your dog’s brain and helps beat boredom. It’s like a puzzle for their taste buds! Going through a popsicle takes time to consume, giving your pup a fun and rewarding challenge. Plus, if you freeze their favorite toy inside or use a mold that encourages problem-solving, it becomes an even more enriching experience.
3. Soothes sore gums and teeth
These icy treats can be a real lifesaver for teething puppies. The cold helps numb sore gums, reducing discomfort and preventing them from chewing on furniture or shoes. Even adult dogs can benefit from this cooling effect—it can ease mild dental irritation and freshen breath (especially if you use mint or parsley).
4. Aids in digestion and gut health
When made with the right ingredients, pupsicles can support your dog’s digestive system. Adding probiotic-rich yogurt, pumpkin, or banana can promote gut health and prevent tummy troubles. If your dog is prone to constipation or an upset stomach, a well-balanced pupsicle can work wonders!
5. A healthy, low-calorie treat
Unlike store-bought treats that may be loaded with preservatives and fillers, homemade dog popsicles give you full control over the ingredients. You can use fresh fruits, veggies, lean proteins, or dog-safe broths to create a low-calorie yet nutritious snack. It’s a guilt-free way to reward your pup while keeping their weight in check.
Suggested Reading: 12 Omega-3 Rich Recipes for Shiny Coat of Dogs
Pupsicle Recipes to Make at Home
Okay, so it’s established—pupsicles are a fun, energising and healthy treat for your furry baby. Now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk about how to make pupsicles at home for dogs. Here are 21 healthy homemade pupsicle ideas with recipes that I love to make for my pet—and I’m sure you will too.
1. Peanut butter and banana pupsicles
As far as DIY frozen dog treats, this is a classic that you just cannot go wrong with. Peanut butter and banana make quite the combination, and when you throw in some yogurt for creaminess and serve it frozen, the resulting treat is abounding in flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tbsp unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter
- ½ cup plain yogurt
Directions
Blend all ingredients until smooth. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray and freeze for at least four hours.
2. Watermelon coconut pupsicles
One of the best summer treats for dogs ever. It’s delicious, hydrating, and a delight to lick on.
Ingredients
- 1 cup seedless watermelon, pureed
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut water
Directions
Mix the watermelon puree with coconut water, pour into molds, and freeze for several hours.
3. Chicken broth ice cubes
Looking for simple and hassle-free pupsicle recipes for dogs that still pack a punch in terms of flavor and nutrients? It doesn’t get any easier than this.
Ingredients
- 1 cup low-sodium, dog-safe chicken broth
Directions
Pour broth into an ice cube tray and freeze. Serve as a refreshing treat on hot days.
Watch this in action here:
4. Pumpkin yogurt pupsicles
This is my pet’s current favorite out of all the dog-friendly popsicle recipes I’ve tried so far. Sweet, creamy, and lasting, he loves to lick his way through this one on a hot summer’s day.
Ingredients
- ½ cup canned pure pumpkin
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
Directions
Mix the pumpkin and yogurt together, then pour into molds and freeze overnight.
Suggested Reading: 10 Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipes for Busy Parents
5. Apple cinnamon pupsicles
Anyone looking for easy frozen dog treat recipes has got to try their hands on this. The sweetness of the applesauce and the fragrance of the cinnamon makes it an instant hit. Side note: you can use store bought applesauce as long as it’s all-natural and free from added sugars or preservatives, or make it from scratch by boiling slices of apple with a little water and blending it into a smooth paste.
This is one of the healthy homemade pupsicle ideas that I chanced upon by accident. My GSD baby was looking at me with those big puppy eyes as I prepared some applesauce for my toddler. Since it was hot off the stove, I took a spoonful and popped it in the freezer to cool before I gave him a taste. By the time I remembered to check in on it, it had frozen over. So, I tossed it as a treat to him and he went berserk with joy. Since then, it has been a pet favorite in my home.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
Directions
Stir the cinnamon into the applesauce, pour into molds, and freeze for a tasty fall-inspired treat on a summer’s day.
6. Blueberry banana smoothie pops
Banana is undoubtedly one of the best ingredients for dog popsicles—sweet, delicious, nutritious, and versatile. One great way to use in your DIY frozen dog treats is pairing it with blueberries for that extra punch.
Ingredients
- ½ banana
- ¼ cup fresh blueberries
- ½ cup plain yogurt
Directions
Blend everything until smooth, then pour into molds and freeze for a fruity, antioxidant-rich snack.
Watch this recipe in action here:
7. Carrot and apple pupsicles
A cool, icy summer treat perfect for dogs with a sweet tooth. Both carrots and apple have abundant natural sweetness, which will certain satiate your pet’s taste buds and help them cool down at the same time.
Ingredients
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
Directions
Combine ingredients, pour into molds, and freeze for a naturally sweet, fiber-filled treat.
8. Frozen Kong pupsicle
Serving the good old banana peanut butter classic with a twist— by stuffing it in a Kong toy and letting it freeze. This will have your pooch engaged for hours.
Ingredients
- ½ banana, mashed
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
Directions
Stuff the mixture into a Kong toy and freeze overnight for a long-lasting chew treat.
9. Sweet potato pupsicles
Another great option for anyone looking for easy frozen dog treat recipes. Low on effort, high on flavor, this is sure to be a recurring hit.
Ingredients
- ½ cup cooked, mashed sweet potato
- ¼ cup water or yogurt
Directions
Blend until smooth, pour into molds, and freeze.
Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?
10. Strawberry coconut pupsicles
If you’re looking for some unusual healthy homemade pupsicle ideas, I’ve just quite the exotic option for you. Combine the sweetness of coconut milk with the zing of strawberries to prepare a creamy icy delight.
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
Directions
Mix the strawberry puree with coconut milk, pour into molds, and freeze.
11. Beef broth cubes
One of the most nourishing and cooling summer snacks for dogs that you can put together in under two minutes. With ideas like these up your sleeve, preparing homemade dog popsicles is literally child’s play.
Ingredients
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Directions
Pour broth into an ice cube tray and freeze for a savory treat.
Watch this recipe in action here:
12. Cottage cheese berry pupsicles
This is one of the more unusual pupsicle recipes for dogs but one that is sure to be well-received. Curiously, cottage cheese and berry pair well. At least, my dogs seem to think so.
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain cottage cheese
- ¼ cup blueberries and strawberries
Directions
Mix the berries into the cottage cheese, then freeze in molds for a protein-packed snack.
13. Parsley and mint breath freshener pupsicles
Help your dog cool down and deal with that nasty breath all with one pupsicle.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- ½ cup water or yogurt
Directions
Blend all ingredients, pour into molds, and freeze for a breath-freshening treat.
14. Oatmeal banana pupsicles
If your pet struggles with digestive distress or loss of appetite on warm days, you’ve got to give this popsicle a try. Soothing, nourishing, and delicious.
Ingredients
- ½ cup cooked oatmeal
- ½ banana, mashed
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
Directions
Mix everything together, pour into molds, and freeze.
Suggested Reading: 8 Best Dog Foods for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
15. Tuna pupsicles
This is one of the most genius dog-friendly popsicle recipes I’ve come across simply for its choice of ingredients. The resulting treat will make your mutt go nuts.
Ingredients
- ½ cup canned tuna in water (no salt added)
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
Directions
Blend until smooth, then pour into molds and freeze for a protein-packed, omega-rich treat.
16. Spinach and carrot veggie pops
There is no reason why you need to stick to fruits for making summer treats for dogs. Think outside the box and give this veggies based variant a whirl.
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh spinach
- ¼ cup grated carrot
- ½ cup water or low-sodium broth
Directions
Blend ingredients until smooth, then freeze in molds for a vitamin-packed pupsicle.
Watch this recipe in action:
17. Coconut banana pupsicles
No-frills, easy frozen dog treat recipes like these make sure you can whip up a fresh batch for your pup whenever it takes your fancy.
Ingredients
- 1 banana, mashed
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
Directions
Mix together, pour into molds, and freeze for a creamy, tropical treat.
Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Almonds?
18. Peanut butter and pumpkin pupsicles
Dogs love peanut butter and they love pumpkin. It only makes sense to try and combine the two and see what happens. So, I did, and the resulting treat was an instant hit.
Ingredients
- ½ cup canned pumpkin
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- ¼ cup water
Directions
Blend until smooth, pour into molds, and freeze.
19. Melon and cucumber pupsicles
Hydrating, sweet, textural—these DIY frozen dog treats hit all the right notes.
Ingredients
- ½ cup seedless melon (cantaloupe or honeydew), pureed
- ¼ cup cucumber, finely chopped
Directions
Mix ingredients together, pour into molds, and freeze for a refreshing treat.
Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Peanuts? Everything You Need to Know
20. Cheesy chicken broth pupsicles
Not all summer treats for dogs need to be icy. Add a creamy twist by incorporating some cheese—you’ll be surprised by the result.
Ingredients
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Directions
Mix cheese with broth, pour into molds, and freeze for a savory, calcium-rich treat.
21. Yogurt and cranberry pupsicles
Sour and sweet cranberries, and creamy, dense yogurt are a match made in heaven. Serve them frozen, and you’ve got a little slice of heaven in your pet’s bowl (or play mat).
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup unsweetened cranberries, blended
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
Directions
Mix all ingredients, pour into molds, and freeze.
Storage and Shelf Life of Homemade Pupsicles
Even though these pupsicles are insanely easy to make, you cannot possibly make just one or even a couple. At the minimum, you’d prepare one batch. Since these are treats, they need to be fed in moderation. This means proper storage is essential to keep homemade pupsicles fresh, safe, and nutritious for your dog. Here’s everything you need to know about storing and maintaining the quality of your pupsicles.
1. Best storage methods
To ensure your pupsicles remain fresh and free from freezer burn, you must:
- Use airtight containers: Store pupsicles in an airtight container or resealable freezer-safe bag to prevent moisture loss and freezer burn
- Individually wrap pupsicles: If they tend to stick together, wrap each one in parchment paper before placing them in a container
- Label and date your batches: Always mark your pupsicle containers with the date they were made to track freshness
- Use silicone molds for easy removal: If you’re freezing in bulk, silicone molds make it easier to pop out individual treats as needed
2. How long do homemade pupsicles last?
The shelf life of homemade pupsicles varies depending on the ingredients used:
- Fruit and yogurt-based pupsicles: 3–4 weeks in the freezer
- Broth-based or meat-infused pupsicles: 2–3 weeks in the freezer
- Vegetable-based pupsicles: 3–4 weeks in the freezer
Since these treats lack preservatives, it’s best to make small batches and use them within a month to ensure optimal taste and nutrition.
3. Signs of freezer burn or spoilage
Even frozen treats can go bad if stored improperly. Watch for these signs that pupsicles may no longer be safe:
- Ice crystals or excessive frost: This indicates freezer burn, which can affect taste and texture. While not harmful, your dog may refuse the treat.
- Discoloration: If the pupsicle changes color significantly, it could be a sign of oxidation or spoilage.
- Unpleasant smell: A strong or sour odor suggests that an ingredient has turned bad, especially in dairy-based pupsicles.
- Change in texture: If a previously smooth treat becomes grainy or mushy when thawed, the ingredients may have broken down.
4. Thawing and serving tips
- Serve straight from the freezer: Pupsicles are best enjoyed frozen, but if they’re too hard, let them sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes before serving.
- Avoid refreezing: If a pupsicle has been left out for too long, discard it instead of refreezing, as bacteria can develop once thawed.
- Portion control: If making large batches, freeze pupsicles in small portions to prevent waste and maintain freshness.
FAQs
- How often can I give my dog pupsicles?
Pupsicles are a great occasional treat, but moderation is key. Depending on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet, you can offer pupsicles a few times a week or even once daily in small portions during hot weather. Since they are meant as a supplement, not a meal replacement, ensure they don’t contribute to excessive calorie intake. If using nutrient-rich ingredients like yogurt, broth, or fruit, keep an eye on portion sizes to avoid digestive upset. Always introduce new flavors gradually to see how your dog reacts.
- Can I include vegetables in pupsicles?
Yes, you can safely include dog-friendly vegetables in pupsicles, and they’re a great way to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your pup’s diet. Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, cucumbers, and zucchini are all excellent choices. You can blend them with water, broth, or yogurt for a nutritious frozen treat. Avoid onions, garlic, and other toxic veggies. If your dog is new to certain vegetables, start with small amounts to ensure they tolerate them well. Freezing vegetables also makes them a fun, crunchy texture that many dogs enjoy!
Takeaway
As you can see, homemade dog popsicles are an easy, fun, and nutritious way to keep your dog cool, happy, and hydrated. Whether you blend up some watermelon, freeze a bit of bone broth, or stuff a Kong with yogurt and berries, your pup will thank you with wagging tails and happy licks. So, go ahead and whip up a batch today.
Resources
