Summer is officially here and if you’re feeling the heat, your dog probably is, too. One way to help your pet cope with rising temperatures is to make them an icy treat. These pupsicle recipes couldn’t be easier – in fact, you probably have most of the ingredients at home!
Supplies Needed for Pupsicle Recipes
Aside from your choice of ingredients – which we’ll discuss next – all you need is room in your freezer and something to freeze the treats in.
A silicone mold usually works best and will be the easiest to remove the treat from. Any size, shape, or variety will do, but try to avoid those that could produce sharp or pointed edges.
Ice cube trays are also a good option, and are a convenient choice if you want to throw these frozen treats directly into your pup’s water bowl.
And of course, we can’t forget the classic popsicle mold! These are always fun and are easy to use, but may not be the most practical option for pet parents because of the plastic or wooden stick required with most molds.
Pupsicle Ingredients
If it is safe for your dog to eat or drink and it freezes, it is probably well suited as a pupsicle ingredient! It’s best to start with a liquid for the base and then mix in your creamy or solid add-ins.
Below is a list of ingredients that could work in multiple combinations:
- Nulo Hydrate in water
- Nulo FreeStyle or MedalSeries Bone Broths
- Creamy, natural peanut butter (avoid artificial sweeteners)
- Plain Greek yogurt (avoid artificial sweetener)
- Berries – strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackberry
- Ripened bananas
- Pumpkin puree (avoid pumpkin pie filling)
- Mashed or pureed sweet potatoes
When we made these for the pups at Nulo HQ, we tried several variations using Nulo Hydrate for Dogs in Rotisserie Chicken Recipe or FreeStyle Classic Turkey Bone Broth as our liquid, with raspberries and blueberries as our add-ins. We also made one with one of our meaty toppers – Freestyle Chicken, Salmon & Carrot in Broth Recipe – but it’s especially important to watch for sharp edges when making pupsicles with meat chunks.
How to Make Pupsicles
The instructions for making icy pops for your furry friend are simple and quick:
- If using softer ingredients, like peanut butter, yogurt or purees, mix them into liquid base prior to pouring. (Alternatively, you can scoop them into the ice cube tray or popsicle mold before adding liquid.)
- Divide liquid base evenly between your ice tray or popsicle mold.
- Add any fruit or other solid, pet-safe ingredient.
- Carefully place in the freezer until frozen.
- Serve!
Check out Nulo’s TikTok for step-by-step instructions for making pupsicles!