Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
Think your dog is not begging for ice cream this fall? Think again!
The thing is, store bought treats can be loaded with strange things that your dog does not need, and that can gradually deteriorate their health.
But don’t worry, I have a very simple solution for you right here.
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade pumpkin spice dog ice cream is super easy.
- It takes just 10 minutes to prep and needs 4 hours to freeze.
- It’s packed with healthy ingredients that are great for digestion.
- This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a few happy pups.
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Ingredients List
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (no xylitol!) – $2.50
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pie filling) – $1.00
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon – $0.20
- Pinch of ground ginger – $0.10
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce – $0.50
- Optional: 1 tablespoon peanut butter (xylitol-free) for extra flavor – $0.75
- Total Estimated Cost: $5.05
You can swap the Greek yogurt for plain kefir if your dog has trouble with dairy. And if you don’t have cinnamon, a tiny bit of turmeric can work for its anti-inflammatory benefits, but use very sparingly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get a medium-sized bowl.
- Put in the Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, and applesauce.
- If you’re using peanut butter, add that in now too.
- Mix everything really well until it’s smooth and all one color.
- Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray or small silicone molds.
- You can also use small paper cups for bigger servings.
- Put the trays or cups in the freezer.
- Let them freeze for at least 4 hours, or until they’re solid.
- Once they are firm, pop them out of the molds.
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Feeding Guidelines
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 small ice cream cube per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1-2 small cubes or 1 larger serving per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 2-3 small cubes or 1-2 larger servings per day.
- Puppies and older dogs should have smaller portions to start, maybe half a cube, to see how they react.
- Very active dogs might need a bit more, while less active dogs should have less to avoid weight gain.
- Always check with your vet. They know your dog best and can give personalized advice on treats.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Greek yogurt gives your dog protein for muscles and probiotics for a healthy gut.
- Pumpkin puree is packed with fiber, which is great for digestion and firm poops.
- Cinnamon and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties, good for overall health.
- Applesauce adds natural sweetness and some vitamins without added sugars.
- This recipe has healthy fats from the yogurt and optional peanut butter for energy and coat health.
- It’s a good source of calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Keep the frozen dog ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- When you want to serve, you can let it sit out for a minute or two to soften slightly.
- You can serve it as a standalone treat or crumble it over their regular kibble for an extra special meal.
- Make sure your dog eats it in a place where it’s okay if there’s a little mess, as it can melt!
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, definitely not. Pumpkin pie filling often has added sugars and spices like nutmeg, which can be toxic to dogs. Always use 100% pure pumpkin puree.
What if my dog is lactose intolerant?
If your dog has trouble with dairy, you can use plain, unsweetened kefir instead of Greek yogurt. Kefir has less lactose and often better tolerated. You can also try a dairy-free yogurt specifically for dogs, but check ingredients carefully.
Can I add other fruits or vegetables?
Yes, you can. Small amounts of dog-safe fruits like blueberries or bananas, or veggies like cooked sweet potato, can be blended in. Just make sure they are safe for dogs and introduced slowly.
My dog won’t eat it. What should I do?
Some dogs are picky. Try mixing a tiny bit into their regular food first. You could also try adding a bit more of the optional peanut butter to entice them. And here’s the thing, not every dog loves every treat, and that’s okay!
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Making your dog this pumpkin spice ice cream is a simple way to show them love with a healthy, delicious treat. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and packed with goodness.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
