Homemade Puppy Treats Recipe Using Yogurt & Berries

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.

That small furry tornado just made a whirlwind tour of the living room and left a trail of scattered toys and a happy mess that is panting. You want to give that boundless energy a reward, to cool those puppy zoomies down with something nice.

But the treat jar is kind of… heavy. Filled with hard, dry biscuits that do not quite fit the vibrant, playful spirit that is currently lying at your feet.

That’s why I have created this simple yet healthy homemade puppy treat recipe. You should try it out today!

Recipe Overview

This homemade puppy treat recipe is super simple, requiring no baking at all. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then a few hours to freeze. These cool, creamy drops are perfect for soothing a puppy’s gums, providing probiotics for their tummy, and offering a healthy, refreshing reward.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Freeze Time: 2-3 hours
• Serving Size: Makes about 30-50 small drops (depending on size)

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for these soothing puppy treats. All ingredients are dog-safe and readily available.

• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (dairy or non-dairy, ensure no xylitol): About $0.50 – $0.75
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries: About $0.75 – $1.25
• Optional: 1 tablespoon water (to adjust consistency): About $0.01
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $1.26 – $2.01

Substitutions:

• Plain, Unsweetened Yogurt: Plain kefir can be used for similar probiotic benefits.
• Blueberries or Raspberries: Other dog-safe berries like strawberries (chopped) can be used.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these drops is wonderfully simple. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare the berries. If using fresh berries, gently mash them with a fork. If using frozen berries, you can either let them thaw slightly and mash, or blend them directly.
2. Combine ingredients. In a small bowl, combine the plain, unsweetened yogurt with the mashed or pureed berries.
3. Mix well. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and form a smooth, creamy mixture. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to reach a consistency that can be easily dropped or piped.
4. Form the drops. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag (or a plastic zip-top bag with a corner snipped off) or use a small spoon. Pipe or drop small dollops onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Aim for small, puppy-mouth-sized drops.
5. Freeze. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the drops are completely solid.
6. Store. Once frozen, gently peel the drops off the parchment paper or silicone mat. Store any leftover drops in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer.

Feeding Guidelines

These drops are designed for puppies, but moderation is still key. They’re a reward, not a meal.

• Small Puppies (under 10 lbs): 2-3 small drops per day.
• Medium Puppies (10-25 lbs): 4-6 small drops per day.
• Large Puppies (over 25 lbs): 6-8 small drops per day.

Always consider your puppy’s overall daily calorie intake. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their total calories. Introduce these treats slowly, starting with just a few, to ensure they agree with your puppy’s tummy. If your puppy has any specific health concerns or dietary needs, always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

These cool treats are packed with goodness for your growing pup.

• Plain, Unsweetened Yogurt: Provides probiotics, which support a healthy gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and immune function. It’s also a source of calcium for strong bones.
• Blueberries/Raspberries: Excellent sources of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and support a strong immune system. They also provide vitamins and dietary fiber.
• Overall: These treats help soothe gums, support healthy digestion, boost the immune system, and contribute to overall growth and vitality, all in a refreshing format.

Storage and Serving Tips

These frozen treats are easy to store and serve, making them a convenient option.

• Freezing: Store the frozen drops in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Serving Ideas: Offer them directly from the freezer. They are particularly good for puppies who are teething, as the cold can help soothe sore gums, or as a refreshing treat on a warm day. Always supervise your puppy while they enjoy their treat.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

My puppy is sensitive to dairy. Can I still make these?

Yes, you can. Simply use a plain, unsweetened, dairy-free yogurt alternative (ensure it’s xylitol-free and free of other harmful ingredients).

Can I use other fruits in these drops?

Yes, you can. Small amounts of pureed banana or unsweetened applesauce can be added. Always ensure any added fruits are dog-safe and pureed.

The mixture is too runny. What should I do?

If the mixture is too runny, you can add a tiny bit of finely ground oats (oat flour) to thicken it slightly before freezing.

Wrapping Up

These Homemade Puppy Treats Using Yogurt & Berries are a simple, wholesome way to reward your growing pup with a refreshing, nutritious treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for those warm days or just a healthy snack.

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