When the weather heats up, nothing feels better than a refreshing treat – and your dog agrees! But before you share your ice cream or barbecue leftovers, remember that dogs have different dietary needs and some human foods can be harmful.
The good news? There are plenty of healthy, dog-safe snacks that will cool your pup down and keep them hydrated through the summer months. Here are our top 10 picks for the best summertime snacks for dogs, along with tips to prepare them safely.
1. Frozen Watermelon Cubes
Watermelon is over 90% water, making it one of the most hydrating fruits around. Just remove the seeds and rind, cut into chunks, and freeze.
Tip: Blend and pour into silicone molds for pup-friendly ice pops.
2. Frozen Banana Bites
Bananas are packed with potassium and make a naturally sweet frozen snack. Peel, slice, and freeze for a quick, healthy chew.
Pro Tip: Dip banana slices in plain, unsweetened yogurt before freezing for an extra creamy treat.
3. Dog-Safe Frozen Yogurt
Use plain, unsweetened yogurt (no xylitol!) and freeze it in ice cube trays. You can mix in peanut butter, blueberries, or pureed pumpkin for added flavor.
Bonus: Yogurt supports gut health thanks to natural probiotics.
4. Cucumber Slices
Cucumber is a low-calorie, high-water veggie that’s perfect for cooling down without adding extra weight. Serve fresh or lightly chilled.
Safety Tip: Cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking.
5. Frozen Bone Broth Cubes
Low-sodium bone broth is both hydrating and flavorful. Pour it into ice cube trays, freeze, and offer as a refreshing lickable treat.
Extra: Drop a frozen cube into your dog’s water bowl for a flavor boost.
6. Apple Slices (Frozen or Fresh)
Crisp, sweet, and full of fiber. Just remove the seeds and core before serving. Freeze slices for a crunchy summer chew.
Pro Tip: Dip slices in peanut butter for a higher-value snack.
7. Carrot Sticks
Carrots are crunchy, sweet, and naturally help clean your dog’s teeth. Serve fresh, chilled, or lightly frozen for a cooling crunch.
Bonus: Great for teething puppies.
8. Blueberry Ice Pops
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and make the perfect bite-sized snack. Freeze whole berries or blend with water/yogurt and pour into molds.
Paw Parent Tip: Blueberries can stain fabrics – feed outdoors if possible.
9. Doggie Smoothies
Blend dog-safe fruits like strawberries, banana, and blueberries with water or plain yogurt. Pour into ice cube trays or serve immediately as a cool drink.
Variation: Add a spoonful of pumpkin puree for extra fiber.
10. Frozen Kong Fillers
Stuff a Kong toy with mashed banana, plain yogurt, or pumpkin puree and freeze. Keeps your dog busy, cool, and satisfied on hot afternoons.
Pro Tip: Layer flavors for variety and fun.
Snacks to Avoid in Summer (and Always)
Not all summer treats are safe for dogs. Avoid:
- Chocolate
- Grapes/raisins
- Cherries
- Ice cream with added sugar or artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol)
- Onions or garlic
Final Tips for Summertime Snacking
- Moderation matters: Even healthy snacks should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet.
- Hydration is key: Always offer fresh, cool water alongside treats.
- Watch for allergies: Introduce new foods slowly to monitor reactions.
- Size appropriately: Cut snacks to suit your dog’s size and chewing habits.
With these tasty, healthy, and dog-approved summertime snacks, you can keep your pup cool, hydrated, and tail-wagging all season long.
