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When the summer heat rolls in my dogs start panting after just a quick walk so I love making these watermelon dog treat popsicles to help them cool down Each pop is packed with real fruit and creamy yogurt and they come together in minutes with hardly any mess
I first made these for my golden retriever when she was a picky puppy and now she leaps with excitement every time she hears the blender
Ingredients
- Watermelon: cut into chunks because it is naturally hydrating lowcalorie and turns icy and sweet after freezing Look for seedless watermelon to avoid any choking hazards and choose fruit that feels heavy and sounds hollow for juiciness
- Plain yogurt: it makes the texture creamy and adds probiotics that boost gut health Pick unsweetened yogurt without xylitol or added sugars as those are not safe for dogs
StepbyStep Instructions
- Blend Ingredients:
- Combine the watermelon chunks and plain yogurt in your blender Pulse until you get a completely smooth mixture with no visible lumps or fruit pieces Your mix should look bright pink and pourable
- Fill Molds:
- Carefully pour the blended mixture into silicone treat molds or ice cube trays Leave a tiny space at the top for the mixture to expand as it freezes If using fun paw or bone shapes tap the mold gently on the counter to release any bubbles
- Freeze Pops:
- Set the molds in your freezer making sure they are level Let the treats freeze undisturbed for at least four hours or until they are frozen solid Patience is key here so they pop out perfectly later
- Store and Serve:
- Once frozen completely pop the treats out and transfer to an airtight container to store in the freezer Serve straight from the freezer whenever your pup needs a cool snack
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My favorite part is seeing how excited my dog gets when she hears the blender I remember making these the first time on a scorching July afternoon We both ended up sitting next to the open freezer and sharing a watermelon smile
Storage Tips
Keep these popsicles stored in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent freezer burn I like making a double batch and tucking extras in a labeled dogonly bin You can store them for up to two months but they are always gone in a couple weeks at my house
Ingredient Substitutions
If your dog has a sensitivity to dairy you can use coconut yogurt in place of plain yogurt for the same creamy result Always pick unsweetened and plain varieties to keep it safe for canine tummies If you want to get creative add a spoonful of pureed pumpkin or unsweetened applesauce
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Serving Suggestions
These treats are best given straight from the freezer on hot days If your dog loves a little crunch use silicone trays with bigger shapes so the pops last longer For smaller pups break apart the treats into bite sized pieces
Cultural and Historical Context
Frozen homemade dog treats have become increasingly popular as pet owners look for healthier alternatives to storebought snacks Watermelon becomes very popular for dogs in the US during the summer because it is affordable hydrating and easy to prepare
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other fruits besides watermelon?
Yes, you can substitute with dog-safe fruits like blueberries or strawberries, but avoid grapes or raisins.
- → Is flavored yogurt safe for dogs?
No, always use plain yogurt without added sugars or artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- → How should these popsicles be stored?
Keep them in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to serve. They'll stay fresh for several weeks.
- → Can I make smaller treats for little dogs?
Yes, use smaller molds or ice cube trays to create bites suitable for your dog's size.
- → Are these popsicles suitable for puppies?
As long as your puppy can safely eat both watermelon and yogurt, these treats are a gentle, cooling snack.