Canned Veggie Cubes: Economical Frozen Dog Treat Recipe

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.

Ever feel worried about what’s actually in those store-bought dog treats? Many are packed with fillers and preservatives, and let’s be honest, the cost adds up fast.

Giving your dog healthy, delicious snacks shouldn’t break the bank or involve mystery ingredients.

Here’s a simple, budget-friendly solution that’s a total win for their health and your wallet.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade treat recipe makes healthy, refreshing frozen delights for your dog.
• It uses everyday canned vegetables and is super simple to put together.
• These treats are packed with vitamins, hydration, and fiber.
• They’re perfect for hot days, soothing gums for teething puppies, or as a wholesome snack any time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Freeze Time: 2-4 hours (until solid)
• Serving Size: Approximately 24-30 small cubes (depending on mold size)

Ingredients List

• 1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added green beans, drained and rinsed thoroughly ($1.29)
• 1 (15 oz) can 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling) ($2.50)
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (no xylitol) ($0.80)
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (or water) ($0.50)
• Optional: ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped ($0.75)
• Total Estimated Cost: $5.84

Suitable Substitutions:

• Green Beans: You can easily use canned carrots (drained, rinsed) or peas instead. Just make sure they are plain and unsalted.
• Pumpkin Puree: Canned, plain sweet potato puree works great too and offers similar benefits.
• Yogurt: Low-sodium cottage cheese can be used if your dog likes it. Or, omit the dairy entirely for a dairy-free treat.
• Broth: Plain water is always a perfectly fine substitute for broth if you don’t have any on hand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Prep Your Veggies. First, open your can of green beans. Drain them well and then rinse them thoroughly under cool water. This step helps wash away any extra sodium.
• Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients. Next, grab your blender or food processor. Add the drained green beans, the entire can of pumpkin puree, and the plain, unsweetened yogurt to it.
• Step 3: Add Liquid. Pour in the low-sodium broth or water. It’s best to start with ½ cup; you might need a tiny bit more later depending on the desired consistency.
• Step 4: Blend Until Smooth. Blend everything together until the mixture is nice and smooth. You’re aiming for a consistency similar to a thick smoothie or baby food. If it seems too thick to pour, add another tablespoon or two of broth or water until it’s just right.
• Step 5: Optional Herbs. If you’re using fresh parsley, gently stir it into the blended mixture now. Parsley can do wonders for doggy breath and adds extra nutrients.
• Step 6: Fill Molds. Carefully pour the mixture into silicone ice cube trays or other small, dog-friendly molds. Don’t overfill them; leave a little space at the top for expansion.
• Step 7: Freeze. Place the filled molds on a flat surface in your freezer. Let them freeze for at least 2-4 hours, or until they are completely solid all the way through.
• Step 8: Store. Once frozen, pop the veggie cubes out of the molds. You can store these treats in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag in your freezer.

Feeding Guidelines

Knowing how much to feed depends on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall health. Remember, these are treats, not a meal replacement.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1-2 small cubes per day. This is good for breeds like Chihuahuas or miniature Poodles.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): You can give 2-3 cubes daily. This portion works well for Beagles or smaller Bulldogs.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 cubes a day should be fine for larger breeds. Consider this amount for Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds.
• Active Dogs: More active dogs might enjoy an extra cube or two. They burn more energy, so a little extra treat is usually okay.
• Less Active/Older Dogs: If your dog isn’t very active or is a senior, stick to the lower end of the recommendation. This helps manage calorie intake.
• Talk to Your Vet: Always check with your veterinarian for personalized advice. They know your dog’s specific health needs and can offer the best guidance.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Here’s what I found: These simple ingredients pack a punch when it comes to dog health. Each component offers unique advantages.

• Green Beans: These are low in calories and fat, but high in fiber. Fiber is fantastic for aiding digestion and can help your dog feel full, which is great for weight management. They also provide beneficial vitamins like K, C, and A.
• Pumpkin Puree: A true superfood for dogs! It’s excellent for digestive health, thanks to its very high fiber content. Pumpkin can help alleviate both constipation and diarrhea, making it a gut-friendly choice. It’s also rich in beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A) and essential minerals like potassium.
• Plain Yogurt: If your dog handles dairy well, yogurt is a good source of protein and calcium, vital for strong bones. The live active cultures can also support a healthy gut microbiome, which is great for overall immunity. Just ensure it’s plain and unsweetened, with no xylitol.
• Broth/Water: This addition significantly boosts hydration, which is super important for your dog’s health, especially if they don’t drink enough on their own. Staying hydrated helps with all bodily functions.
• Parsley (Optional): Not just for fresh breath, parsley has vitamins K and C, and can act as a natural diuretic. It’s a nice, fresh addition that offers minor health benefits.

Storage and Serving Tips

Once you’ve made a batch of these yummy treats, storing them correctly means they’ll last a while. Proper storage also ensures they remain safe and delicious.

• Refrigeration: These treats are meant to be frozen. They won’t last long in the fridge once thawed and should be consumed quickly or discarded.
• Freezing: Store the frozen cubes in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Labeled properly, they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 2-3 months this way.
• Serving Temperature: You can serve them straight from the freezer for a refreshing, cooling treat. This is especially good on hot days or for dogs who love to chew.
• Mix It Up: Some dogs love these mixed with their regular kibble. It adds moisture, a burst of flavor, and can make mealtime more exciting.
• Thawing: If your dog prefers them softer, you can let a cube sit out for a few minutes before serving. However, don’t leave them out for too long to prevent spoilage.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use any canned vegetables?

No, not all canned veggies are safe for dogs. Always choose plain, no-salt-added varieties. You must strictly avoid onions, garlic, and mushrooms, as these are toxic to dogs. Stick to safe options like green beans, carrots, peas, and pumpkin puree.

My dog won’t eat them. What can I do?

Here’s the thing: some dogs are picky! Try mixing a small amount with their favorite wet food or a lick

Wrapping Up

I hope you found this recipe beneficial, both to your wallet and to your dog’s happiness!

If you liked this recipe, be sure pin this to your Dog Treats Recipe board today so you can always find it later!