Place your dogs usual food into a shallow bowl of water, and freeze.
This is a great option for dogs who need to watch their weight or have dietary restrictions and can’t normally have extra treats. It’s a fun, enriching way to help them stay cool without adding any extra calories.
Smear some pet-approved food on a licki mat and freeze. Wet food, fat-free natural yoghurt and xylitol-free peanut butter are great options to keep your pup cool and entertained.
You can also fill a kong with the same ingredients for a longer-lasting frozen snack.
Did you know that dogs often enjoy a variety of fruit and veg? Cooled cucumber and carrots are a healthy alternative for a summer snack.
Try freezing some apple or strawberries in water for a cold, crunchy treat.
For most healthy dogs, small amounts of ice or frozen treats are perfectly safe and can help them cool down on a hot day. Just make sure the pieces aren’t too big to avoid choking.
There’s no solid evidence that eating a few ice cubes will cause bloat. However, dogs prone to bloat should always avoid gulping large amounts of water or eating too fast — with ice or otherwise!
Small ice cubes, frozen kibble, or soft frozen treats (like yoghurt or fruit purées) are unlikely to harm healthy teeth. Just avoid giving large, rock-hard chunks that could crack a tooth.
Every dog is different! If your dog has dental issues, tummy troubles, or any health conditions, it’s always best to check with your vet before trying new treats (frozen or not).
There are lots of fun frozen dog treat ideas out there. Websites like Barking Mad share some great, easy recipes to help keep your pup cool and happy all summer long.
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RSPCA Cotswolds, Gloucester & District Branch
