Homemade & DIY Dog Treats to Keep Your Pup Cool in Summer

As we reach the peak of summer, it’s more important than ever to help your four-legged friend stay cool and comfortable in the heat.

Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin—they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads to regulate their body temperature. This makes them much more susceptible to overheating, which can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening.

That’s why we always recommend taking extra precautions in hot weather—and one of the best (and most fun!) ways to do that is with DIY cooling dog treats made right in your own home.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Frozen Treats for Humans

Now, you may be thinking, “I’ve got plenty of frozen ice creams in my freezer—why should I go through all that effort to make something for my dog when I could just give them one of those?” But wait!

While you may be tempted to share your ice cream cone with your dog, there are important reasons why you shouldn’t. Many frozen human foods—especially those high in sugar, dairy, or containing ingredients like xylitol (a naturally occurring artificial sweetener found in many "sugar-free" products) or chocolate—can be toxic or cause upset stomachs for dogs. Even ingredients that seem harmless can have serious consequences, so it’s always better to use dog-specific treats that are designed with their safety and health in mind.

And the best way to ensure your cooling dog treats contain only the safest ingredients? Make them at home!

Homemade Frozen Dog Treats Your Pup Will Love

Ready to cool your dog down with something that is both delicious and safe? These easy dog treats to make at home are perfect for summer and super fun to whip up.

1. Frozen Peanut Butter & Banana

Mash a ripe banana and mix with a spoonful of xylitol-free peanut butter. Next, spoon your mix into ice cube trays or silicone molds, then freeze. You could also add some plain Greek yogurt (no sweeteners!) before freezing for some extra tasty creaminess.

For more info on giving frozen ice cubes to your dog, check out our previous article on the subject here.

2. Berry Yogurt Cubes

This DIY cooling treat for dogs in summer involves blending a plain, low-fat Greek yogurt with a handful of dog-safe fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or seedless watermelon. This can then be frozen into a mold, ready for your dog to enjoy when the sun’s out.

You could take this idea even further, freezing your mix into a food-safe chew toy as a mold. This can provide your pooch with plenty of mental enrichment as they have to work to access the delicious flavours inside!

3. Chicken & Banana Freezer Mix

Chicken and banana may not sound like the most appetizing recipe for us humans, but who are we to judge? Maybe our dogs are onto something tasty, and we just haven’t realized!

For this homemade dog treat, combine cooked chicken breast chopped into small bites with a mashed banana and a little water or low-salt stock. Pour into molds before freezing or freeze inside a Kong-style toy for a longer-lasting treat.

4. Cucumber & Yogurt Coolers

This simple DIY dog treat requires grating some cucumber and mixing with a plain yogurt and a drizzle of honey. No hassle or lengthy preparation required. Just freeze for a refreshingly hydrating snack.

5. Frozen Veggie Snacks

For this one, steam or boil a selection of carrots or broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces, and freeze. And as easy as that, you have a crunchy, low-calorie cold snack that’s perfect for pooches on those hot days.

6. Big Block Bonanza

For dogs who like a challenge, you can try freezing a mixture of your dog’s kibble or fruit with low-salt stock or water. Make sure to use a clean yogurt pot, spread container, or small bowl as your mold. This jumbo treat will help to keep them cool and entertained for a while!

DIY Dog Treat Ingredients to Keep in Your Kitchen

When creating your homemade frozen dog treats, it’s important to use ingredients that are not only safe but also beneficial for your pup’s health. All the recipes above are great examples of what you can make at home, but feel free to experiment with your own creations!

Here are some summer-friendly favourites to consider for your own cooling dog treats:

• Bananas—Naturally sweet and full of potassium, they blend well into frozen treats.
• Peanut butter—A great source of protein and healthy fats. Just be sure it’s xylitol-free.
• Greek yogurt—Opt for plain, unsweetened, low-fat or no-fat versions without artificial sweeteners.
• Cooked chicken—A lean protein that most dogs love.
• Seedless watermelon and berries—Packed with antioxidants and hydration.
• Mango—Another delicious fruit but be prepared for a bit of mess if any is left after defrosting! Mango should be peeled, pitted, and chopped into small pieces.
• Pumpkin puree—Great for digestion. Just make sure it’s plain, with no added sugars or spices.
• Cucumber—Hydrating and low in calories, ideal for cooling snack cubes.
• Honey—Adds natural sweetness in small amounts and is great for combining with yogurt or fruit.
• Steamed or boiled carrots and broccoli—Steaming or boiling helps to soften these vegetables before freezing for a healthy, crunchy chilled snack.
• Boiled and mashed potato—A gentle, starchy option that can be mashed and mixed with other ingredients and frozen into chew toys.
• Plain cottage cheese—A creamy and mild ingredient that can be mixed with potatoes and other stuffing-style frozen treats.
• Kibble—Adding a few pieces of your dog’s regular dry food to frozen blocks makes the treat more familiar and fun.

These ingredients are safe for most dogs but always take your pup’s unique dietary needs and sensitivities into account. If your dog has a medical condition or special diet, check with your vet before introducing new treats.

Hazardous Ingredients to Watch Out For

On that note, when making DIY cooling treats for dogs in summer, there are a few common ingredients to avoid as they can potentially be harmful or toxic:

• Chocolate.
• Grapes & raisins.
• Onions & garlic.
• Anything with caffeine.
• Macadamia nuts.
• Xylitol (check labels on peanut butter or yogurt).
• Stone fruits like peaches or plums.

Top Tips for Frozen Treat Time

A few last things to consider when it comes to keeping your pup cool in summer with any frozen treats:

• When offering cooling dog treats, it’s always best to supervise them, especially if you’re giving larger blocks or stuffing mixtures into chew toys. As delicious as they are, your dog may be tempted to swallow the whole thing in one go, presenting a choking hazard when you’re not there to intervene.
• You should also introduce any new ingredients gradually. Even natural, dog-safe foods can cause a bit of a stomach upset if eaten too quickly or in large amounts.
• If you’re incorporating treats into your dog’s daily routine, don’t forget to also adjust their usual food portions accordingly to avoid overfeeding.
• Hydration is always key during hot weather, so provide plenty of fresh, cool water throughout the day. Adding a few ice cubes can help keep it extra refreshing, and a collapsible bowl is a great item to bring along on walks.

And remember, for added comfort alongside those tasty cooling snacks, an ADAPTIL Calm diffuser or ADAPTIL Calm Collar can help your dog feel relaxed and reassured, especially during warmer months or any changes in routine!