There’s something special about making homemade treats for our furry best friends. Not only do we get to choose the best natural ingredients, but we also get to see the joy on their faces when they enjoy a delicious, refreshing snack.
These Blueberry & Banana Frozen Treats are one of my go-to recipes, especially in the summer when my pup, Charlie, struggles with the heat. They’re packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, making them a nutritious and easy-to-make option.
Before we dive into the full recipe, let’s go step by step on how to prepare each ingredient to make sure your pup gets the best possible treat.
How to Prepare Each Ingredient
1. Bananas – The Natural Sweetener
Bananas add a creamy texture and natural sweetness to this recipe. They are full of potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6, which help with muscle health and digestion.
Preparation Steps:
- Choose a ripe banana – the riper, the better, as it will be naturally sweeter.
- Peel the banana and place it in a bowl.
- Mash it with a fork until smooth, or slice it into chunks if you’re blending everything together.
Tip: If you want an extra creamy texture, freeze the banana chunks before blending.
2. Blueberries – The Antioxidant Powerhouse
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, which help with brain health and immunity. They are a low-calorie fruit, making them perfect for dogs.
Preparation Steps:
- If using fresh blueberries, rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- If using frozen blueberries, no need to thaw—just toss them into the blender as-is.
- For smaller dogs, you can mash the blueberries slightly so they are easier to digest.
Tip: Blueberries stain easily. If you’re prepping on a cutting board, use one that won’t absorb the color.
3. Greek Yogurt or Unsweetened Coconut Milk – The Creamy Base
This recipe uses plain Greek yogurt or unsweetened coconut milk as a base. Greek yogurt is high in probiotics, which are great for your dog’s gut health and digestion. However, some dogs are lactose-intolerant, so coconut milk is a great alternative.
Preparation Steps:
- If using Greek yogurt, choose plain, unsweetened, and unflavored yogurt (no artificial sweeteners like xylitol).
- If using coconut milk, go for unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk (avoid brands with added sugars or preservatives).
- Stir well before measuring out one cup for the recipe.
Tip: If your dog has never had yogurt or coconut milk before, start with a small amount to check for any sensitivities.
4. Honey – The Optional Natural Sweetener
Honey is a great natural sweetener that adds a little extra flavor and health benefits. It has antioxidants and can help soothe sore throats and seasonal allergies. However, it should be used in moderation, especially for dogs with diabetes or weight concerns.
Preparation Steps:
- Use raw, natural honey (avoid processed honey, which can contain added sugars).
- Measure one tablespoon and mix it into the recipe if desired.
Tip: If your honey is thick, warm it slightly to make it easier to mix.
5. Water – The Blending Helper
Adding a little water helps achieve the right consistency for blending. It also keeps the treat light and hydrating for your pup.
Preparation Steps:
- Measure out half a cup of filtered water to help blend the ingredients smoothly.
Tip: If you prefer a richer texture, you can substitute water with more coconut milk or yogurt.
Now that we’ve prepared all the ingredients, it’s time to put everything together and make these Blueberry & Banana Frozen Treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Mashed banana
- Fresh or frozen blueberries
- Greek yogurt or unsweetened coconut milk
- Honey (if using)
- Water
Blend everything until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water or coconut milk to loosen it up. If you want a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture instead of blending it completely.
Step 2: Pour Into Molds
Once blended, carefully pour the mixture into silicone molds, ice cube trays, or small paper cups. If using silicone molds, place them on a baking sheet for easy transfer to the freezer.
For a fun twist, you can place a small dog biscuit in the center of each mold before freezing, making it an extra special surprise for your pup!
Step 3: Freeze Until Solid
Place the molds or trays into the freezer and let them set for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight for best results. Make sure they are completely solid before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Watch Your Dog Enjoy!
Once frozen, pop the treats out of the molds and serve them to your pup as a cooling reward. These are perfect after a long walk, a hot day outside, or simply as a tasty snack.
Serving Size Recommendation:
- Small dogs: 1 treat per day
- Medium dogs: 1-2 treats per day
- Large dogs: 2-3 treats per day
Since bananas contain natural sugars, these should be given in moderation.
Storage Tips
- Store the frozen treats in an airtight container in the freezer.
- They will stay fresh for up to three weeks.
- If stacking the treats, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Fun Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some creative twists on the recipe:
1. Peanut Butter Banana Frozen Treats
- Add 1 tablespoon of homemade peanut butter for extra protein.
- Try this recipe for Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs to make sure it’s dog-safe.
2. Blueberry Pumpkin Delight
- Add ¼ cup of pure pumpkin puree for a boost of fiber and beta-carotene.
- Perfect for digestive health and great for dogs who love pumpkin.
- You might also love these Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs for a chewy alternative.
3. Berry Yogurt Swirl
- Instead of blending everything together, mix the yogurt separately and swirl it into the blueberry-banana blend.
- Creates a fun, marbled effect and adds a little texture.
4. Tropical Pupsicles
- Swap out half of the blueberries for pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- A great summer snack that adds a boost of vitamin C.
For more summer-friendly recipes, check out these Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs.
Why Homemade Dog Treats Are the Best Choice
Making homemade dog treats allows you to:
Control the quality of ingredients and avoid harmful additives.
Save money compared to buying expensive store-bought treats.
Customize recipes to suit your dog’s taste and dietary needs.
Show your pup some extra love and care through homemade goodness.
Many commercial frozen treats contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and added sugars that dogs don’t need. By making them at home, you ensure your furry friend is getting only the best ingredients.
FAQs About Frozen Dog Treats
1. Can I Give My Dog Frozen Treats Every Day?
Yes, but in moderation! Since these contain fruit, they have natural sugars, so one or two per day is ideal, depending on your dog’s size.
2. Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Blueberries?
Absolutely! Some great alternatives include:
- Strawberries (low in sugar, high in fiber)
- Apples (remove the seeds first)
- Mango (great for vitamin A)
Avoid grapes or cherries, as they can be toxic to dogs.
3. My Dog is Lactose-Intolerant. What Can I Use Instead of Yogurt?
Use unsweetened coconut milk, goat’s milk, or even water for a lighter option.
4. How Can I Make These Treats Last Longer?
Store them in an airtight container in the freezer, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 weeks.
Final Thoughts
These Blueberry & Banana Frozen Treats are the perfect way to keep your pup cool and healthy while providing a nutrient-packed snack. Whether your dog loves fruity flavors, creamy textures, or crunchy add-ins, this recipe is easy to customize and fun to make.
Looking for more homemade dog treat recipes? Visit MyDogRecipe.com for more creative, dog-friendly snacks!
Also, don’t forget to check out our Pinterest page for even more ideas: https://www.pinterest.com/mydogrecipe/.
Have fun making these frozen treats, and enjoy watching your dog wag their tail in delight!
Katie
Sunday 2nd of March 2025
I didn't see anywhere in the recipe how many blueberries you used? A cup? Half a cup?
Karen
Sunday 9th of March 2025
@Katie, the only thing I saw a measured amount was for the water 🤷♀️
I just made them and I used one banana, a good handful of blueberries, probably a 1/2 - 3/4 cup of yogurt and just a squirt of honey.
I blended them and added water as needed to the consistency I wanted.
They are in the freezer now 😁
Paula
Sunday 23rd of February 2025
Dog Treats