Simple Summer treats for your pooch

When the heat of summer hits, there is nothing like an ice cream or ice block to keep us cool. But what about your pooch? Human ice creams contain ingredients that you should never, ever give to your dog.

So why not make your own cool treats for your pooch. Super cheap and easy to do and will keep your dog cool in the hot weather.

Watermelon

Yes dogs can eat watermelon. It is full of beneficial nutrients that are healthy for dogs, including potassium and vitamins A, B6, and C. It’s also high in fibre, which is good for digestion and can be especially refreshing on a hot day

Although watermelon contains sugar, the fibre content in the fruit insulates the sugar and prevents it from being released into the bloodstream too quickly. It’s also a source of lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may help prevent cancer.

Watermelon is low in calories, low in sodium, fat free, and cholesterol free, which makes it a healthier choice than many store-bought treats. Being made of about 92 percent water, this fruit can be a good source of hydration and an especially refreshing treat on a hot day.

Don’t let them eat the rind or seeds and don’t overfeed. Too much watermelon is not a good thing as it can give them a tunny ache.

Ice cubes with kibble inside

My favourite go to is putting 2-3 pieces of kibble into ice cube trays and filling with water. Super simple and my dogs love them. They can crunch up the ice to keep them cool and then get the treat inside. Plus healthy and they can have a few without worrying about calories

An alternative is to do the same but using larger containers – it keep them entertained and cool for hours.

Frozen yogurt treats

I do a similar thing using ice cube trays and filling them with yogurt. You could also add peanut butter or fruit

Frozen Kongs

Kongs can offer hours of entertainment for our dogs, especially when they’re frozen. They can be filled with all sorts of tasty treats. Mix or blend your ingredients together, fill up your Kong and you’re away. Here are just a handful of recipes you might like to try.

Ingredients: 1 banana, 1 cup of plain or Greek yogurt & 1 teaspoon of honey

Ingredients: 1 cup of cooked sweet potato, a handful of shredded, boiled chicken, a handful of cooked carrots & 2 tablespoons of yogurt

Ingredients: 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 cup of natural peanut butter (Xylitol-free) & 1 teaspoon of honey

There are a bunch of recipes online but these will kickstart your imagination and keep your pooch happy and COOL in the process.