There’s something magical about spoiling our furry best friends with homemade goodies. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a random Tuesday, making a delightful frozen treat for your dog is the perfect way to show them some extra love. Enter the Pumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream—a creamy, wholesome, and absolutely tail-wag-worthy dessert that your pup will go crazy for!
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make this simple recipe, why the ingredients are not only tasty but also healthy for your dog, and a few tips for customization. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite moments creating this treat for my own pup!
Why Homemade Doggy Ice Cream?
If your dog is anything like mine, they’re always curious about what you’re eating—especially on a hot day when they see you enjoying ice cream. Unfortunately, regular ice cream is loaded with sugars, fats, and dairy that can upset a dog’s tummy. That’s why this homemade version is such a game-changer.
By using natural, dog-safe ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter, and yogurt, you can whip up a frozen delight that’s both delicious and nutritious. Not only is it a fantastic treat for summer, but it’s also rich in vitamins and minerals that promote good health.
What Makes This Ice Cream So Healthy?
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a powerhouse ingredient for dogs. It’s packed with fiber to support digestion, beta-carotene for healthy eyes, and a host of vitamins like A, C, and E. Plus, it adds a naturally sweet and creamy flavor!
- Peanut Butter: Peanut butter (the natural, unsweetened kind) is a dog-favorite ingredient that brings protein and healthy fats to the table. Just make sure it’s free from xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s toxic to dogs.
- Plain Yogurt: Yogurt is an excellent probiotic for dogs, helping to support gut health. Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt to avoid any added sugars or artificial ingredients. Greek yogurt works wonderfully for a thicker texture.
How to Make Pumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened, not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 cup plain unsweetened yogurt (regular or Greek)
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoon honey (only if your dog needs a touch of extra sweetness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and yogurt. If you’re using honey, add it here as well. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. - Blend for a Smoother Texture (Optional):
For a creamy, soft-serve consistency, toss the mixture into a blender or food processor. This step is optional but gives the ice cream an extra-smooth texture. - Scoop into Molds or Cups:
Pour the mixture into silicone molds, small paper cups, or ice cube trays. I used reusable treat-sized cups for easy serving (as shown in the photo). - Freeze:
Place the molds in the freezer for at least 4-5 hours, or until completely frozen. - Serve:
Pop a frozen cup out of the mold, and serve it to your excited pup! Make sure they’re enjoying their treat in a shady spot on a warm day.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add More Flavor:
Feel free to toss in a few dog-safe add-ins like fresh blueberries or diced bananas before freezing. Both add natural sweetness and extra nutrients. - For Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs:
If your dog is lactose intolerant, replace the yogurt with a lactose-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt. - Adjust the Size:
If you have a smaller dog, freeze the mixture in smaller portions using mini silicone molds or an ice cube tray. For larger dogs, use bigger cups. - Seasonal Variations:
Swap the pumpkin for mashed sweet potatoes in the fall or fresh watermelon puree in the summer for a fun twist.
My Pup’s Reaction (and Yours Will Be Similar!)
The first time I made this for my dog, Max, it was like Christmas morning. He sniffed the frozen treat, gave it a cautious lick, and then proceeded to devour it with pure joy. Watching him enjoy something I made with love melted my heart (pun intended).
In fact, this ice cream has become a staple in our summer routine. I often whip up a batch and store it in the freezer so Max can have a cool, refreshing treat after a long walk or a play session at the park.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more homemade treats to spoil your furry friend? Check out these ideas:
- Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs
- Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs
- Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs
Creative Ways to Serve Pumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream
Making this ice cream is just the beginning—there are so many fun ways to serve it to your dog! Whether you want to make it extra special for a birthday celebration or just add a bit of variety, here are a few ideas to get creative:
- Stuff It in a Kong Toy:
Spoon the softened mixture into a Kong or another treat-dispensing toy before freezing. This is perfect for dogs who love a challenge, as they’ll have to work to lick out every last bit of the frozen goodness. - Doggy Sundae Bar:
For a fun event like a doggy playdate or birthday party, create a sundae bar just for pups! Start with the ice cream as the base and set out dog-safe toppings like blueberries, shredded carrots, or crushed dog biscuits. - Layer It:
Make your dog’s treat extra fancy by layering the ice cream with other ingredients. For example, pour a layer of mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce into your mold before adding the ice cream mixture on top. - Decorate with a Biscuit:
Right before freezing, pop a dog biscuit or chew stick into the middle of each serving. Once frozen, it will act as a "handle" for your dog to hold while they enjoy the treat.
Storage Tips for Homemade Doggy Ice Cream
Making a large batch of this ice cream means you’ll have treats ready to go for weeks! Proper storage is key to ensuring the ice cream stays fresh and delicious.
- Use Airtight Containers:
Transfer the frozen portions to an airtight container or freezer bag once they’re fully frozen. This prevents freezer burn and helps them stay fresh. - Label with Dates:
Homemade dog treats are free from preservatives, so they don’t last as long as store-bought ones. Be sure to label the container with the date you made them. These frozen treats can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer. - Thaw Slightly Before Serving:
If the ice cream is too hard for your pup to enjoy, let it sit out for a few minutes to soften before serving.
A Treat for All Seasons
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It’s great for summer, but it can also be adapted to other seasons. In winter, you can warm up the ingredients (minus the yogurt) and serve it as a creamy, comforting puree instead of freezing it.
Moreover, the flavors of pumpkin and peanut butter are timeless—your pup is guaranteed to love them year-round.
Why I’m Passionate About Making Homemade Dog Treats
I’ve always believed that food is a way to show love, and that extends to our pets. Making homemade dog treats has become one of my favorite ways to bond with Max. I know exactly what’s going into his snacks, and I love the joy it brings him when he gets to try something new.
It’s also been a fun learning experience for me. I’ve discovered so many healthy, dog-friendly ingredients I didn’t even realize were safe for pets! For example, did you know that pumpkin is excellent for soothing upset stomachs? Or that peanut butter can be a great energy booster for active pups?
Every time I try a new recipe, I feel like I’m doing something small but meaningful to improve Max’s quality of life.
More Treat Ideas for Pups Who Deserve the Best
If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, I highly recommend checking out these other homemade dog treat ideas:
- Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs: A Treat Your Pup Will Love – Perfect for dogs who love a crunchy snack!
- Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs: A Tail-Wagging Treat Your Pup Will Love – Learn how to make your own peanut butter, free from harmful additives.
- Bull Penis Dog Treats – A high-protein option for adventurous pups!
You can also find more inspiration on Pinterest. There’s no shortage of creative and healthy ways to keep your pup happy and well-fed!
Final Thoughts: Making Treat Time Special
Our dogs bring us so much joy—they deserve treats that are not only delicious but also made with their health in mind. The Pumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream is just one example of how easy and rewarding it can be to whip up something special for your furry friend.
Whether it’s a hot summer day, a birthday celebration, or just a moment to show how much you care, this ice cream is guaranteed to make tails wag and hearts melt.
So grab your mixing bowl, freeze up a batch, and watch your pup’s face light up with happiness. After all, there’s no better reward than seeing that wagging tail!
P.S. Don’t forget to explore more recipes and inspiration at My Dog Recipe. Happy treat-making!
PrintPumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream: A Frozen Treat Your Pup Will Adore
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 small servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream is a healthy and easy-to-make frozen treat for dogs made with dog-safe ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened, not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 cup plain unsweetened yogurt (regular or Greek)
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoon honey (only if additional sweetness is desired)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and yogurt. Add honey if desired, and mix until well incorporated.
- For a smoother texture, blend the mixture in a blender or food processor (optional).
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds, small paper cups, or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 4-5 hours or until fully set.
- Pop out a frozen portion and serve to your dog!
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs.
- If your dog is lactose intolerant, replace yogurt with a lactose-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
- For smaller dogs, use mini molds or ice cube trays for portion control.
- Add dog-safe toppings like blueberries or diced bananas for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Dog-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small serving
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 1mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Peanut Butter Doggy Ice Cream, dog treats, homemade dog recipes, frozen dog treats
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