Tasty & Healthy Summer Snacks for Your Dog

What To Feed Your Dog? Healthy Summer Snacks

Summer is a great time to pamper your pup with refreshing, healthy snacks you can make at home to help keep them cool and hydrated. Whether you are lounging by the pool on a sunny day or having a BBQ be sure to keep your dog safe and enjoy the summer as much as you are. But not all of those summer snacks are safe for dogs, even if they are irresistible to humans. This is why we've compiled a list of delicious and nutritious summer snacks that will keep your furry friend cool and content — and healthy — all season long!

Watermelon: Nature’s Perfect Hydrating Food

Watermelon is a summer favorite—and it’s just as great for your pup as it is for you! Rich in vitamins A, B6, and potassium, watermelon is not just healthy, but it also contains lots of water, making it the ideal summertime treat. Which is good as this juicy fruit can help keep your dog hydrated, and they’ll enjoy the sweetness as well.

How to Prepare Watermelon for Dogs:

Also unlike humans, dogs find it difficult to digest rinds and seeds, so remove them before giving the dog whatever it is you're sharing.

Cut the watermelon into bite-sized chunks for easy eating.

(Cool in the heat on hot days).

Fruits that Can Be Fed with Caution for Dogs Mango

Finally, mango is another tropical Treat that can be a real winner with your dog. It is high in fiber and rich in vitamins A, B6, C and E, so mango is not just a sweet snack; it’s good for you, too. It can help with your dog’s skin health, immune system, and give them a little boost of energy.

Dog Owner’s Guide to Feeding Mango:

Mango peel should be removed, and mango pit as well, since it may be toxic.

Slice or chop the mango into tiny cubes or pieces that are comfortable for your dog.

Serve it fresh or freeze it for a crunchy, cool snack.

Corn: A Crunchy, Summer Snack

Corn goes hand in hand with summer BBQs, and it’s also a snack that your dog can have in moderation. Corn is low in calories but high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a good source of nutrients to maintain your dog’s overall health. The cob, however, should be avoided, since it can be a choking hazard or lead to blockages.

How to Feed Corn to Your Dog:

Cook the corn, then cut the kernels off the cob.

Serve the kernels unseasoned (no butter or seasoning) and cooled.

Serve the corn as a stand-alone snack, or combine it with your dog’s normal food for extra flavor.

Bone Broth Cubes: A Shivery Summer Snack

Bone broth ice cubes are the perfect treat to keep your dog cool and nourished if they love meaty flavors. Bone broth is packed with collagen, amino acids and gelatin that encourages healthy joints and digestion. These frozen “cubes” are simple to prepare and provide a much more savory solution than sweet snacks.

How to Make Bone Broth Cubes for Your Dog

Fill ice-cube trays with plain, unsalted bone broth.

Freeze and enjoy as a cool, refreshing treat on hot days.

For extra flavor, you can mix small amounts of dog-safe meat or vegetables into the cubes.

The Cool and Creative Way to Treat Your Pup: DIY Doggie Ice Cream

As much as it may be fun to share your favorite pint of ice cream with your dog, it’s better to keep those treats for you. Luckily, you can whip up an ice cream safe for dogs at home! With safe, simple ingredients and customizable options, this homemade ice cream is sure to please even the most discerning pup.

How to Make Doggie Ice Cream:

Blend 1 ripe banana + 1/2 cup plain yogurt + 1 tbsp peanut butter (check for xylitol-free)

If you’d like your milk cubes sweetened, add 2.5 to 5 tablespoons of sugar at this stage, then stir, pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds, and freeze for a few hours.

You can also mix in fruit, such as blueberries or strawberries, to vary the flavor.

Carrots: A Crunchy, Low-Calorie Snack

Carrots are high in fiber and vitamin A, and what’s more, they’re great for dogs who like to chew. A healthy, crunchy, low-calorie treat that cleans dogs’ teeth while they chew. And they contain nutrients that are good for your dog’s eyesight and immune system.

How to Feed Carrots to Your Dog:

Serve raw carrots cut into small pieces.

If your dog likes softer snacks, lightly steam the carrots before serving.

If your dog likes to chew, try giving them whole carrots to chew on.

Cucumber: Fresh and Crunchy Novelty

Cucumber is another hydrating snack that is low in calories and perfect for dogs. If it’s packed with water, it’s nutritious, too, so it’s a great way for your dog to stay hydrated — particularly in summer. Plus, it’s gentle on their stomachs and has an earthquake-crunch.

How to Give Cucumber to Your Dog:

Wrap in mason jar with salt (2-3 heads of garlic, if you wish) — pack tightly. cucumber thin rounds or sticks.

Serve raw and cold for a nice cooling treat.”

(Strip the seeds out from the inside of the pumpkin before giving them to your pet if they have a sensitive stomach.)

Apples: When the Heart Loves, so Does the Body

Apples are good sources of fiber and vitamin C, and they’re a crunchy, sweet treat that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Just make sure you take out the core and seeds, since those can be dangerous to your dog because of the cyanide-like compound in the seeds.How to Give apple to Your Dog:

Cut the apple into bite sized pieces.

Remove the seeds and core for safety.

Serve fresh, or freeze the apple slices for a cool treat.

Pet Owners: Key Reminders

Although any of these snacks are healthy and safe for dogs, the key is moderation. Even healthy treats can cause stomach upset or adding weight if given too much. Here are some other tips:

Be careful with portion sizes, especially for high-fiber treats like apples and carrots.

Introduce new foods slowly to gauge your dog’s reaction.

Do not give your dog any treats that are seasoned with oils, butter, and other harmful preservatives.

If you’re unsure about a specific diet for your pup, or if they have allergies or sensitivities to certain foods, check with your vet.

Conclusion: Healthy, Cold Treats for Your Dog

As the weather heats up, you don’t have to feel shameful for treating your dog to delicious snacks this summer. Ensure your dog stays cool without sacrificing their health with these healthy and hydrating snacks! From watermelon to frozen bone broth cubes, there’s a treat to satisfy every dog. So as you’re enjoying your summer, do yourself a favor and make sure your dog is enjoying theirs as well with these delicious, nutritious treats!

For more tips on keeping your dog healthy and entertained, head over to PetIndiaOnline — your one-stop shop this summer for everything you need to keep your furry friend happy and fed!