Fresh Bread & Broth Bites: Simple 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.

Do you ever wonder what is actually inside those dog treats that you buy from the store? Most of them are full of fillers and artificial things.

So it’s quite disappointing when all you really want to do is give your loyal companion something that is both healthy and tasty.

However, preparing your own treats can be quite simple and it allows you absolute control over their intake. With this recipe, it becomes very easy as well as enjoyable.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: This recipe creates refreshing, easy-to-digest frozen treats perfect for cooling down your dog, especially on warm days.
• Benefits: These bites offer hydration, support gut health, and are a great low-calorie snack. They’re also ideal for dogs with sensitive teeth or older pups.
• Prep time: 10 minutes (active)
• Freezing time: 2-3 hours (inactive)
• Serving size: Makes approximately 20-30 small bites, depending on the mold size.

Ingredients List

• 2-3 slices (about 60-90g) plain stale bread: Leftover whole wheat, white, or gluten-free bread works great. We’re using it as a simple base. Estimated cost: $0.50 (if using leftovers, otherwise a loaf costs ~$3.00)
• 1 cup (240ml) dog-safe bone broth: Look for unsalted, plain beef, chicken, or turkey bone broth. Make sure it has no onions, garlic, or artificial ingredients. This adds flavor and nutrients. Estimated cost: $4.50
• Optional: 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh parsley or mint: These herbs can add a fresh scent and extra vitamins. Make sure your dog tolerates them well. Estimated cost: $0.25 (from a small bunch)

Substitutions: You can swap out plain bread for plain cooked oatmeal or even some mashed sweet potato for a different texture. If you don’t have bone broth, a low-sodium, plain vegetable broth (check ingredients carefully) or even just water can work, though bone broth adds more goodness.

Total Estimated Cost: ~$5.25

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare your bread: First, tear the stale bread into small, roughly 1/2-inch pieces. You want them small enough to fit into your ice cube tray or silicone mold.
2. Mix with broth: Place the bread pieces in a medium-sized bowl. Next, pour the dog-safe bone broth over the bread.
3. Add optional herbs (if using): If you’re using parsley or mint, gently stir them into the bread and broth mixture now. This helps distribute the flavor.
4. Let it soak: Let the bread sit in the broth for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid and soften up.
5. Mash the mixture: After soaking, use a fork or the back of a spoon to gently mash the bread and broth mixture. You want it to be mostly saturated and form a thick, mushy paste.
6. Fill your molds: Spoon the mashed mixture into ice cube trays, silicone molds (bone-shaped ones are fun!), or even small muffin tins. Press the mixture down firmly into each cavity.
7. Freeze: Place the filled molds in the freezer. Let them freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are completely solid.
8. Store: Once frozen, pop the treats out of the molds and transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. They’re now ready for your pup!

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with 1-2 small bites per day as a treat.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 2-4 bites daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): Give 4-6 bites per day.
• Activity Level: More active dogs might enjoy a few extra bites, but always remember these are treats, not a meal replacement.
• Life Stages: Puppies and senior dogs might find the soft, frozen texture particularly appealing. Always introduce new treats slowly to avoid upset stomachs.

It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet. They can give you personalized advice on how many treats are right for your dog based on their specific health needs and diet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Bone Broth: This is the star ingredient. It’s rich in collagen for joint health and gelatin, which is fantastic for gut health and digestion. It also provides essential amino acids and is great for hydration.
• Plain Bread: When used in moderation, plain bread can be a simple source of carbohydrates for quick energy. Opting for whole wheat bread adds a bit of fiber.
• Optional Parsley/Mint: Parsley is a good source of vitamins K, A, and C, and can help with bad breath. Mint can also aid digestion and freshen breath.

These bites are naturally low in fat and calories, making them a guilt-free treat option. They are also free from common allergens like corn, soy, and artificial colors or flavors often found in commercial treats.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Once thawed, these treats will only last about 2-3 days in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep them frozen.
• Freezing: These treats can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. They hold up really well.
• Reheating: No reheating needed! Serve them straight from the freezer. They’re meant to be a cool, refreshing snack.
• Serving Ideas: Offer them as a cool-down treat after a walk or during hot weather. You can also crush a frozen bite and sprinkle it over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra flavor boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

Yes, you can. Stale bread just absorbs the liquid a bit better. If you use fresh bread, you might need to let it soak a few extra minutes to get the right mushy consistency.

What kind of bone broth is best for dogs?

Always choose plain, unsalted bone broth with no added onions, garlic, or xylitol. These ingredients are toxic to dogs. You can find dog-specific bone broth, or human-grade unsalted broth from the grocery store. Check the ingredient list carefully.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Generally, yes! The soft, mushy texture is often great for teething puppies. However, always check with your vet before introducing any new foods to a young puppy, especially if they have sensitive stomachs.

My dog doesn’t like frozen treats. What can I do?

You can let the treats thaw slightly at room temperature before serving so they are just chilled, not rock-hard. Or, consider serving them mashed up and mixed into their regular food as a topper.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it – an easy way to make healthy, cooling treats for your dog. They’ll love these homemade bites, and you’ll know exactly what they’re eating.

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