Homemade Dog Ice Cream Recipe Using Apple and Carrot

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.

Are you tired with your dog refusing to eat treats you bought from the store?

Giving them a special treat, something that reflects how much you love them, is what you really want, but getting healthy and tasty options seems like a difficult task.

It’s infuriating when you don’t know what’s in the product or if it’s good for your pet.

But how about making a yummy and extremely healthy recipe at home? I have a straightforward answer that will make your dog’s tail wag like crazy!

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog ice cream recipe is super simple and takes just 10 minutes of active prep.
• The total chill time is about 4-6 hours, making it perfect for a warm afternoon.
• It’s packed with natural vitamins, fiber, and hydration.
• It’s ideal for keeping your dog cool and happy, especially on hot days.
• This recipe makes about 8-10 servings, depending on your portion size.

Ingredients List

• 1 large apple (about $0.70) – washed, cored, and peeled
• 2 medium carrots (about $0.50) – washed and peeled
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (about $2.00) – make sure it has no xylitol
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (about $0.40) – no added sugar or spices
• 1/4 cup water (free)

Total estimated cost: $3.60

Substitutions: You can swap plain yogurt for plain kefir. Instead of apples, you can use mashed banana. For carrots, try a small amount of pumpkin puree (plain, no spice).

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, chop the apple and carrots into small pieces.
• Then, put the chopped apple and carrots into a blender.
• Add the plain yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, and water to the blender.
• Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
• Make sure there are no large chunks left.
• Pour the mixture into silicone molds, ice cube trays, or small paper cups.
• Carefully place the molds or trays into the freezer.
• Let them freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until solid.
• You can stir the mixture once after about an hour of freezing to ensure even consistency, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer 1-2 small ice cream cubes per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 2-3 cubes.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might enjoy 3-4 cubes.
• Puppies can have a tiny bit, but check with your vet first, especially if they are very young.
• Older dogs or those with dental issues might prefer it slightly softened.
• If your dog is very active, they might need a little more hydration, so a slightly larger serving is okay.
• Always talk to your vet to figure out the best portion size for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Apples are great for fiber and Vitamin C, which helps with immunity.
• Carrots provide Vitamin A for good vision and more fiber for healthy digestion.
• Plain yogurt adds probiotics for gut health and calcium for strong bones.
• The recipe is low in calories but full of essential vitamins and minerals like Potassium and Manganese.
• It’s also hydrating, which is super important on hot days.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Homemade dog ice cream stays fresh in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks.
• Store it in an airtight container or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
• To serve, you can give it to your dog straight from the freezer.
• For a slightly softer treat, let it sit out for 5 minutes before serving.
• You can also mix a small piece into their regular kibble for an extra special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other fruits or vegetables?

Yes, you can. Just make sure they are safe for dogs. Berries like blueberries or strawberries, and vegetables like pumpkin or sweet potato (cooked), are usually good choices. Always avoid grapes, cherries, and anything with pits or seeds.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, is this safe?

This recipe is generally gentle on stomachs. However, if your dog has known sensitivities, introduce it slowly in very small amounts to see how they react. Plain yogurt with live cultures can actually help with digestion.

What if my dog doesn’t like it frozen?

If your dog isn’t keen on frozen treats, try serving it slightly thawed, like a slushy. You can also mix a small amount into their food or spread it on a lick mat.

Do I need to add a supplement?

For a treat like this, a supplement isn’t usually needed as it’s not a full meal. If you’re looking to replace meals with homemade food, then yes, a vet-approved canine supplement is crucial to ensure nutritional completeness.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog this homemade apple and carrot ice cream is a simple way to show love and keep them cool. It’s easy to make, healthy, and your pup will absolutely adore it.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!