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.
Your dog used to have been like a rocket to the kitchen at the very first crinkle of the treat bag. Now he stays at the door, listening with one ear, as if to say, “That again?”
You can’t really hold it against him. Those brown, factory-pressed squares may as well be cardboard both in terms of the smell and the taste, and they might as well be a chemistry quiz by the way their ingredient list is written.
How about making a snack out of just two everyday staples that you have already trusted and that your dog doesn’t know how to resist? Let’s get into it.
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Recipe Overview
- Purpose: These 2-Ingredient Dog Treat Freezies are perfect for cooling down your dog on a hot day or just as a healthy, refreshing snack.
- Benefits: They are packed with probiotics for gut health and antioxidants for overall well-being.
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes (freezing time: 2-4 hours)
- Serving size: Makes about 12-16 small treats, depending on mold size.
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Ingredients List
- Plain, unflavored yogurt (full-fat or low-fat): 1 cup (Cost: $0.50 – $1.00)
- Mixed berries (fresh or frozen): 1/2 cup (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) (Cost: $0.75 – $1.50)
- Suitable substitutions: You can use other dog-safe fruits like banana or pumpkin puree instead of berries.
Total estimated cost: $1.25 – $2.50
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get your ingredients ready.
- Put the yogurt and mixed berries into a blender.
- Blend until it’s smooth and well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds.
- Freeze for at least 2 to 4 hours, or until they are solid.
- Pop them out of the molds when they are ready.
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Feeding Guidelines
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small freezies per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 small freezies per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 small freezies per day.
- For puppies: Give smaller portions. Talk to your vet first about introducing new treats.
- For senior dogs: These are great for older dogs as they are soft and easy to eat.
- Consult your vet if your dog has any health issues or specific dietary needs.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Plain yogurt: It’s a great source of probiotics. These help with your dog’s gut health and digestion.
- Mixed berries: They are full of antioxidants. These can help fight off cell damage and support the immune system.
- Low calorie: These treats are a healthy option for managing weight compared to many store-bought treats.
- Hydrating: The frozen nature helps with hydration, especially in warm weather.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Berries provide vitamins C and K, while yogurt offers calcium and B vitamins.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store the frozen treats in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Do not refreeze treats once thawed.
- Serve them straight from the freezer.
- You can give them as a standalone treat or as a fun topping to their regular meal.
- Make sure to supervise your dog while they enjoy their treat.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use flavored yogurt?
No, you should only use plain, unflavored yogurt. Flavored yogurts often contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners like xylitol (which is toxic to dogs), and other ingredients that aren’t good for dogs.
What if my dog is lactose intolerant?
Some dogs can be lactose intolerant. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, introduce a very small amount first. You can also try a dairy-free yogurt alternative, but check the ingredients carefully to ensure they are dog-safe and sugar-free.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure you have enough silicone molds or freezer space to store them properly.
My dog doesn’t like berries. What else can I use?
You can substitute berries with other dog-safe fruits like bananas, pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), or even a small amount of unsweetened applesauce. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.
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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 these 2-ingredient yogurt and berry freezies is super easy. They are a healthy, refreshing way to show your dog some love without all the extra junk. So go ahead, whip up a batch!
