Blueberry Pops Low Calorie Dog Treat

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.

If you’ve ever stood in the kitchen, staring at a bag of dog treats and wondering what’s actually inside, you’re not alone. It’s tough not knowing if those store-bought snacks are really as healthy as they claim.

The good news? You can skip the guesswork and make your own low calorie dog treats at home. It’s simple, and you know exactly what your pup’s getting. Plus, they’ll love you for it.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade blueberry pops recipe is super simple and quick, perfect for a refreshing treat.
• It takes just 10 minutes to prep and about 2-4 hours to freeze.
• You can make around 12-16 mini pops, depending on your mold size.
• These pops are low calorie, packed with antioxidants, and great for all dogs, especially those needing to watch their weight.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (USA cost: $3.00)
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (USA cost: $1.50) – make sure it contains live and active cultures and no xylitol.
• 1/4 cup water (USA cost: $0.00)
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.50

Substitutions: You can swap blueberries for raspberries or strawberries. Instead of plain yogurt, you could use unsweetened kefir or even a small amount of unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option. Just ensure any substitution is dog-safe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, wash your blueberries well if they are fresh.
• Put the blueberries, plain yogurt, and water into a blender.
• Blend until the mixture is smooth.
• Pour the mixture into silicone molds.
• If you don’t have molds, an ice cube tray works great too.
• Carefully place the molds in the freezer.
• Freeze for at least 2 to 4 hours, or until they are completely solid.
• And that’s it, once frozen, they’re ready to serve!

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1-2 mini pops per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 2-3 mini pops per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): You can give 3-4 mini pops daily.
• Puppies and very active dogs might need a bit more, while senior dogs or those trying to lose weight should stick to the lower end.
• Always consider your dog’s overall daily calorie intake when adding treats.
• It’s a good idea to chat with your vet for advice tailored to your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Blueberries are tiny powerhouses, full of antioxidants that fight cell damage and support a healthy immune system.
• They also provide fiber, which is good for digestion.
• The plain yogurt offers probiotics, which help keep your dog’s gut healthy.
• Yogurt is also a good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• This recipe is naturally low in calories and sugar, making it a guilt-free treat.
• It supports hydration, especially on warm days.

Storage and Serving Tips

• These blueberry pops can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks.
• When you want to serve one, just pop it out of the mold.
• You can give them frozen for a refreshing, long-lasting treat.
• For a softer treat, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before serving.
• Some dogs enjoy them mixed into their regular kibble for an extra flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use sweetened yogurt?

No, always use plain, unsweetened yogurt. Sweetened yogurts often contain added sugars and artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.

Are blueberries safe for all dogs?

Yes, blueberries are generally safe and very healthy for most dogs. However, moderation is key, especially with any treat.

My dog won’t eat them frozen. What can I do?

Try letting them thaw for a few minutes to soften up, or you can even blend them into a smoothie and serve that instead.

Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely, as long as they are dog-safe fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or banana. Always check first if a fruit is safe for dogs.

Wrapping Up

Making these low-calorie blueberry pops is a simple way to show your dog some love with a healthy, delicious treat. They’re easy, packed with goodness, and your pup will adore them. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treats board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!