Fruity Frosty Fun: Berry & Banana 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.

Is your dog having a hard time with hot weather, always panting and looking a little sad? It’s really hard to watch them like that, and they don’t even get to tell you what is the matter.

How about you give them a tasty, quick, and refreshing delight that is not only cooling but also full of nutrients they will love? This is the dog treat recipe you need!

Recipe Overview

• This Berry & Banana Frozen Dog Treat recipe is a cool, healthy snack perfect for hot days.
• It’s packed with natural vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Super easy to make, taking just 10 minutes of prep time.
• No cook time needed, just freeze until solid.
• Makes about 20-30 small treats, depending on your mold size.

Ingredients List

• 1 ripe banana (about $0.20) – Provides potassium and natural sweetness.
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries – about $3.00) – Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
• ½ cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (dairy or non-dairy, about $0.50) – A good source of calcium and probiotics.
• ¼ cup water (free) – Helps achieve the right consistency.
• Optional: 1 tablespoon peanut butter (xylitol-free, about $0.25) – Adds flavor and healthy fats.

Total Estimated Cost: $3.95

Substitutions:

• No mixed berries? Use any dog-safe fruit like mango or melon.
• No yogurt? A little unsweetened pumpkin puree can work, but the texture will be different.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, peel your ripe banana and break it into a few chunks.
• Put the banana chunks into a blender or food processor.
• Next, add the mixed berries to the blender.
• Pour in the plain, unsweetened yogurt.
• Add the ¼ cup of water.
• If you’re using it, add the optional tablespoon of peanut butter now.
• Blend all the ingredients until they are completely smooth.
• You want a consistency like a thick smoothie.
• Taste a tiny bit yourself to make sure it’s appealing (don’t give it to your dog yet!).
• Carefully pour the mixture into silicone molds.
• Ice cube trays work perfectly if you don’t have dog-specific molds.
• Make sure not to overfill the molds.
• Place the filled molds into the freezer.
• Let them freeze for at least 3-4 hours, or until they are completely solid.
• Once frozen, pop the treats out of the molds.
• Store them in an airtight container in the freezer.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are meant as a snack, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 1-2 small treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 2-3 small treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): Offer 3-4 small treats per day.
• Puppies and senior dogs might need smaller portions due to sensitive tummies or dental issues.
• Always supervise your dog when they are enjoying frozen treats to prevent choking.
• Adjust the amount based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
• Always talk to your vet if you have questions about specific dietary needs for your dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Bananas: Packed with potassium, which is great for heart and kidney function.
• They also provide Vitamin B6 and C, supporting immune health.
• Mixed Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries): These are antioxidant powerhouses.
• Antioxidants fight free radicals, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Berries also offer fiber for healthy digestion and various vitamins.
• Plain Yogurt: A good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• It contains probiotics, which can support a healthy gut microbiome.
• Peanut Butter (Xylitol-free): Offers healthy fats for skin and coat health.
• Also provides protein for muscle maintenance.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the frozen treats in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
• When serving, you can offer them directly from the freezer.
• For dogs who prefer less cold treats, let them sit out for a minute or two to slightly soften.
• These treats are great for enrichment.
• You can put one inside a KONG toy for a longer-lasting, cooling activity.
• Don’t leave them out for too long, as they will melt quickly.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use flavored yogurt?

No, please only use plain, unsweetened yogurt. Flavored yogurts often contain artificial sweeteners, sugars, or even xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.

My dog doesn’t like berries. What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute with other dog-safe fruits like mango, apple (remove core and seeds), pumpkin puree, or melon. Always check if a fruit is safe for dogs first.

How do I know if my banana is ripe enough?

A ripe banana will have some brown spots on the peel and be soft to the touch. It will also be sweeter and easier to blend.

My treats are too hard. What can I do?

If your treats are too hard, you might have used less water. Next time, add a tiny bit more water to the blend. You can also let them sit out for 5 minutes before serving.

Wrapping Up

Ready to help your best friend beat the heat with a healthy, homemade delight? Pin this Fruity Frosty Fun recipe to your dog treat board and follow us for more tail-wagging ideas!