Summer Treats to Beat the Heat

The summer heat can be relentless.  Today I saw a dog chasing a cat – and they were both walking! What your pup needs is a chilly treat to beat the heat. Try one of these delicious frozen goodies made from fresh summer fruits and naturally energizing foods.  They are easy to make and taste great to boot!

Frosty Watermelon Dog Treat Recipe

Watermelon is packed with nutrients—vitamins A, B6, and C, and potassium- and low in calories – only about 50 calories a cup and 92 percent water, so it’s great for hydration on a hot day. It also has no fat or cholesterol, so it’s pretty much guilt-free.  Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes and any dog suffering from a GI problem can keep from becoming dehydrated by lapping up a cup.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of seedless watermelon
• 1 cup of coconut water
• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Scoop out watermelon and remove seeds – seeds can cause intestinal blockage.
2. Blend watermelon until smooth.
3. Add coconut water and honey to watermelon. Blend together.
4. Pour into ice cube trays.
5. Freeze and serve.

 

Strawberry Smoothies

Strawberries are full of antioxidants. They also boast high fiber, lots of vitamin C, and even contain an enzyme that can help whiten your teeth.  Yogurt is a great source of calcium and zinc, and contain probiotics that help with digestion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of strawberries
• 8 ounces of yogurt
• 1 cup of water

Directions:

1. Blend all ingredients
2. Pour into ice cube trays.
3. Freeze and serve

Frozen Banana Surprise

This potassium-rich snack will help you replenish your energy after a long day of play.  Peanut Butter is a good source of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
• 3 bananas, ripe, peeled & mashed
• 2 tablespoons of honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Blend all the ingredients together.
2. Pour into small paper cups.
3. Place dog bone in the mixture to serve as a tasty handle.
4. Freeze until firm.
5. Pop the treat out of the cup and enjoy!

 

Banana Blueberry Ice Cream

Blueberries contain powerful antioxidants and vitamins that protect against disease and strengthen overall health. Bananas are rich in potassium and low in sodium.

Ingredients

• 2 Frozen Bananas
• ½ cup of Blueberries

Directions:

1. Freeze bananas and blueberries for 2 to 3 hours
2. Cut the banana into small pieces.
3. Blend banana and blueberries into a smooth and creamy mixture.
4. Serve immediately as a soft creamy ice cream or freeze it for an hour for a frozen treat.

Frozen veggies also make a quick and healthy treat – green beans and peas are my favorite.

If you aren’t certain about whether or not your dog should be eating specific ingredients, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet before feeding your dog human food.

I hope there’s something in this collection that your dogs can enjoy this summer! Bone Appetit!