Quick Yogurt Drops: Speedy 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 tired of the same old treats? And are you tired of those store-bought options full of “who-knows-what’s-inside”?

It is hard to know what is really good for your best friend. But the fact is that you can very well make something healthy, tasty, and extremely fun right at home.

This recipe is easy and definitely a treat to ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌make.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose & Benefits: This quick and easy recipe creates delicious, frozen yogurt drops perfect for cooling down your pup on a warm day or just as a healthy, hydrating snack. They’re packed with probiotics for good digestion and can even help with bad breath.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours (freezing time)
• Serving Size: Approximately 40-50 small drops

Ingredients List

• Plain, Non-Fat Greek Yogurt (no xylitol): 1 cup ($4.00 – $6.00)
• Peanut Butter (xylitol-free): 2 tablespoons ($0.50 – $1.00)
• Banana (ripe): 1 small ($0.20 – $0.40)
• Honey (optional, local & raw preferred): 1 teaspoon ($0.25 – $0.50)
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.95 – $7.90

You can swap ingredients if your dog has allergies. For instance, instead of peanut butter, you can use almond butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!). If your dog doesn’t like bananas, mashed pumpkin (canned, plain, not pie filling) works well too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This makes sure the drops don’t stick. It also makes cleanup a breeze later on.
• Step 2: Mash the Banana
• In a medium bowl, peel and mash the ripe banana with a fork until it’s smooth. Get out any big lumps.
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Add the plain Greek yogurt, xylitol-free peanut butter, and optional honey to the mashed banana. Stir everything together really well. Make sure it’s fully combined.
• Step 4: Fill the Piping Bag (or Ziploc)
• Spoon the mixture into a piping bag, or use a Ziploc bag and snip off a small corner. This helps you make neat drops. A small spoon works too if you don’t have a bag.
• Step 5: Pipe the Drops
• Pipe small, dime-sized drops onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each drop so they don’t freeze together. Make them consistent in size for even freezing.
• Step 6: Freeze Them Up
• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the drops are completely solid. They should be firm to the touch.
• Step 7: Store for Later
• Once frozen, carefully peel the drops off the parchment paper or silicone mat. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’re ready for your dog to enjoy.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 drops per day. A Jack Russell or a Chihuahua would do well with this amount.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 3-4 drops per day. Think a Beagle or a Border Collie.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 5-6 drops per day. A German Shepherd or a Golden Retriever can handle a few more.
• Active Dogs: Highly active dogs might get an extra drop or two. If your dog spends hours running or playing, they burn more energy.
• Puppies: For puppies, offer 1 drop as an occasional treat. Always introduce new treats slowly to avoid upset stomachs.
• Older Dogs: Older dogs might have sensitive teeth. Let the drops sit out for a minute or two to soften slightly before serving.
• Consult Your Vet: Every dog is different. It’s always best to check with your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has any health conditions or dietary restrictions. This recipe is a treat, not a meal replacement.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Greek Yogurt: This is a fantastic source of probiotics. Probiotics support healthy gut flora, which can improve digestion and boost the immune system. It’s also high in calcium for strong bones and teeth, and protein for muscle health.
• Peanut Butter (xylitol-free): A good source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins B and E. These nutrients are great for skin, coat, and overall energy. Always double-check it’s xylitol-free; xylitol is toxic to dogs.
• Banana: Bananas provide essential vitamins like Vitamin B6 and C, and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Potassium helps with heart and kidney function. They also offer dietary fiber, aiding in regular bowel movements.
• Honey (optional): Raw, local honey can provide natural anti-inflammatory benefits and help with mild allergies. It also acts as a natural sweetener, making the drops extra tasty. Use it sparingly due to its sugar content.
• Hydration: Because these are frozen, they offer a nice hydration boost, especially on hot days. It’s a fun way to get a little extra water into your dog.

Storage and Serving Tips

Refrigeration: These are frozen treats, so they won’t last long in the fridge. They’ll melt quickly.

Freezing: Store the frozen drops in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. Label the container with the date so you know when they were made.

Reheating: No reheating needed! These are meant to be served frozen.

Serving Ideas:

• Straight Up: Offer them directly from the freezer as a refreshing snack.
• Puzzle Toy Filler: Stuff a few drops into a Kong or other puzzle toy. This makes playtime last longer.
• Mixed with Kibble: Mix a few drops into your dog’s regular kibble. This adds extra flavor and a cool texture, especially if your dog is a picky eater.
• Outdoor Fun: Great for a cool down after a walk or playtime in the yard.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use flavored yogurt?

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

My dog is lactose intolerant. Can they have this?

Greek yogurt is lower in lactose than regular yogurt, but some dogs are very sensitive. If your dog is lactose intolerant, it’s best to skip this recipe or consult your vet first. You could try a dog-safe non-dairy yogurt alternative if you can find one without harmful additives.

My drops aren’t freezing solid. What’s wrong?

Make sure your freezer is set to its coldest setting. Also, ensure your drops aren’t too large, as bigger drops take longer to freeze. If the mixture is too wet, try adding a tiny bit more peanut butter to thicken it slightly, but usually, a ripe banana and Greek yogurt make a good consistency.

How do I know if the peanut butter has xylitol?

Always check the ingredient list on the peanut butter jar. Xylitol will be listed as an ingredient. If you don’t see it listed, it’s usually safe, but it’s always better to be extra cautious and use brands you trust that specifically state “no xylitol.”

Can I make bigger drops for a large dog?

Yes, you can make larger drops. Just be aware they will take longer to freeze completely. Also, adjust the serving size accordingly. Remember, these are treats, so keep portion control in mind.

Wrapping Up

Making these Quick Yogurt Drops is an easy way to show your furry friend some love. And it’s a super refreshing treat they’ll actually beg for! Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treat board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!