As the temperatures rise, we are all looking for ways to stay cool, and our canine companions are no exception. Dogs can easily overheat, making hydration absolutely essential during warmer months. These Bone Broth and Blueberry Hydration Freezies offer a thoughtful and effective solution, providing a refreshing chill while delivering beneficial nutrients. Bone broth is a fantastic base for these treats, known for its hydrating properties and often appreciated by dogs for its savory flavor. Paired with sweet, juicy blueberries, which are tiny powerhouses of antioxidants and safe for dogs in moderation, these freezies become more than just a cool-down snack. They are a delightful way to support your dog's overall well-being, keeping them happily hydrated. Crafting these treats at home means you know exactly what your dog is consuming: natural, wholesome ingredients without any artificial additives. While these freezies are a wonderful addition to your dog's diet, remember that treats should always be given in moderation. If you have any concerns about introducing new foods or notice any dietary sensitivities, it is always a good practice to discuss them with your veterinarian.
Safety first: Offer a small taste the first time and watch your dog for any tummy upset before serving more.
Foods to avoid
Always use plain, unsalted bone broth that is free from onions, garlic, and other seasonings toxic to dogs. Never use broths containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs. Avoid any fruits or vegetables that are not safe for canine consumption, such as grapes, raisins, avocados, and cherries. As with any new food, introduce these treats gradually and observe your dog for any signs of digestive upset. If your dog has any known allergies or health conditions, please consult your veterinarian before introducing new ingredients or making significant dietary changes.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare Blueberries: If using fresh blueberries, gently wash them. If using frozen, you can use them directly. Place the blueberries in a small bowl. Using a fork, lightly mash about half of the blueberries. This helps release their natural juices and flavor, distributing them throughout the freezies. It also ensures some smaller pieces are present for texture.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the plain, unsalted bone broth into the bowl with the mashed and whole blueberries. Stir gently to combine. Make sure the bone broth is at room temperature or slightly warmed, but not hot, to ensure it mixes well and does not damage the silicone molds.
Fill Molds: Carefully pour the bone broth and blueberry mixture into your silicone ice cube tray or dog treat molds. Fill each cavity almost to the top, leaving a tiny bit of space for expansion during freezing. Make sure to distribute the blueberries evenly among the molds.
Freeze Thoroughly: Once all molds are filled, carefully transfer the tray to your freezer. Ensure it is placed on a flat, stable surface to prevent spills. Allow the freezies to freeze completely, which typically takes 4 to 6 hours. They should be solid to the touch before attempting to remove them.
Release and Store: Once frozen solid, gently pop the freezies out of their silicone molds. Silicone is flexible, making this process easy. If any are difficult to remove, let the tray sit at room temperature for a minute or two to loosen slightly. Transfer the released freezies into a freezer-safe airtight container.
Serve and Enjoy: Offer one or two freezies to your dog as a refreshing treat. Always supervise your dog while they are enjoying frozen treats to ensure they do not try to swallow large pieces whole. Adjust the serving size based on your dog's size and caloric needs.
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Tips & serving
These freezies are intended as an occasional treat, not a meal replacement. For small dogs, one small freezie per day is usually sufficient. Medium to large dogs can enjoy two to three, depending on their size and activity level. Always consider your dog's overall daily calorie intake and consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about portion sizes, especially for dogs with specific dietary needs or health conditions.
- Promotes hydration during warm weather
- Provides a cooling sensation
- Offers a healthy, low-calorie treat option
- Contains antioxidants from blueberries
- Supports joint health and digestion (from bone broth)
- Choose Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality, human-grade bone broth. You can make your own or buy a reputable dog-specific brand.
Storage
Store the frozen treats in a freezer-safe airtight container. Beyond that, while still safe, their quality might diminish slightly.
Substitutions
- Fruits
Instead of blueberries, you can use small amounts of mashed strawberries, raspberries, or seedless watermelon. Always confirm a fruit is safe for dogs before using.
- Herbs
For an added touch, a tiny pinch of fresh, finely chopped parsley or mint can be mixed in for a breath-freshening boost. Use sparingly.
- Vegetables
A small amount of pureed carrot or pumpkin (canned, plain, unsweetened) could also be incorporated for variety.
Dogs recipe FAQ
Can Chill Out Your Canine replace my dog's regular diet?
Treat it as an occasional extra, not a meal plan. These freezies are intended as an occasional treat, not a meal replacement. For small dogs, one small freezie per day is usually sufficient.
Can dogs have bone broth?
This recipe uses bone broth in a small, dog-appropriate amount. Skip it if your dog has a known sensitivity, and read the foods-to-avoid note on this page before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the frozen treats in a freezer-safe airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks. Beyond that, while still safe, their quality might diminish slightly.
What's the safest way to try this with my dog?
Offer a small amount beside regular food, introduce one new recipe at a time, and watch appetite, stool, skin, and behavior for a day or two.
Can I use chicken or beef broth instead of bone broth?
You can, but ensure it is plain, unsalted, and completely free of onions, garlic, and any other seasonings or ingredients toxic to dogs. Bone broth specifically offers additional benefits like collagen and amino acids that regular broth may not.
My dog doesn't like blueberries. What else can I use?
You can substitute blueberries with other dog-safe fruits like mashed strawberries, raspberries, or small pieces of seedless watermelon. Always confirm the fruit is safe for dogs before adding it to the recipe.
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