Homemade Dog Ice Cream Recipe Using Peanut Butter Banana

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

When‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ the freezer door opens, does your dog go crazy with excitement?

Our dogs can get very uncomfortable on hot days. And there are times when a usual treat simply isn’t enough.

Well, you can prepare a nice cold snack for them that is yummy and healthy. The method is simple, and your dog will be super happy for ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌sure.

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Recipe Overview

This homemade dog ice cream recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and about 2-3 hours to freeze. It’s packed with natural protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making it a perfect cool-down treat for any dog.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Freeze Time: 2-3 hours
Serving Size: Makes about 12-16 small treats (using standard ice cube trays)

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Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple recipe. All ingredients are dog-safe and easy to find.

1 ripe banana: About $0.25
1/2 cup plain, unsweetened peanut butter: About $0.75 (ensure no xylitol!)
1/4 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (optional): About $0.30 (adds probiotics)
1/4 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth: About $0.05
Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $1.35

Substitutions:

Peanut Butter: You can use almond butter, but always check for xylitol.
Yogurt: Plain kefir can be used for similar probiotic benefits.
Water/Broth: Unsweetened almond milk is another option.

Homemade Dog Ice Cream Recipe Using Peanut Butter Banana pin 1

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these frozen treats is super easy. Just follow these steps:

Peel and slice the banana. Put the banana slices into a blender or food processor.
Add the peanut butter. Spoon the plain, unsweetened peanut butter into the blender with the banana.
Pour in the yogurt (if using) and liquid. Add the plain yogurt (if you’re using it) and the water or low-sodium chicken broth.
Blend until smooth. Turn on your blender and mix everything until it’s a creamy, smooth consistency. Make sure there are no big chunks.
Pour into molds. Carefully pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Small molds are usually best for portion control.
Freeze until solid. Place the filled trays in the freezer. Let them freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are completely solid.
Store the treats. Once frozen, pop the treats out of the molds. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer.

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Feeding Guidelines

These treats are meant to be a special snack, not a meal. Here are some general portion recommendations:

Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 small treat per day.
Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1-2 small treats per day.
Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 2-3 small treats per day.

For very active dogs, you might give a little more. For less active or older dogs, stick to the lower end. Puppies can have small amounts, but always introduce new foods slowly. If your dog has any health issues or is on a special diet, always talk to your veterinarian first. They can give you personalized advice.

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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This simple recipe offers some great health perks for your dog:

Banana: Provides natural sweetness, potassium for muscle function, and vitamin B6 for energy metabolism.
Peanut Butter: A good source of protein for muscle maintenance and healthy fats for energy and skin health. It also contains niacin and vitamin E.
Plain Yogurt (optional): Offers probiotics for a healthy gut, which can help with digestion and nutrient absorption. It also adds calcium for strong bones.
Overall: This treat is a good source of quick energy and can help keep your dog hydrated on hot days.

Storage and Serving Tips

These frozen treats are super convenient to have on hand.

Refrigeration: Not recommended for long-term storage as they will melt.
Freezing: Store in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Serving: Serve directly from the freezer. You can give them as a cool snack on their own. Or you can even put one in their Kong toy for a longer-lasting treat. Always supervise your dog when they’re enjoying frozen treats.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

It’s best to use smooth peanut butter for easier blending and to avoid any choking hazards from large chunks.

My dog is allergic to dairy. Can I still make this?

Yes! Just skip the plain yogurt. The recipe will still work great with just banana, peanut butter, and water/broth.

How do I know if my peanut butter has xylitol?

Always check the ingredient list carefully. Xylitol is often listed as “xylitol” or “birch sugar.” If you see it, do not use that peanut butter for your dog.