During hot summer days, your dog can use some extra cooling. In addition to sufficient shade and water, special cooling snacks can help keep your dog comfortable. In this blog, we discuss healthy and refreshing dog snacks that you can easily make yourself or buy.
1. Why cooling snacks are important
Dogs lose heat less efficiently than humans. They cannot sweat like we can and cool down mainly by panting. Cooling snacks not only help regulate body temperature, but also provide a fun and tasty distraction.
2. Homemade dog ice cream
You can easily make your own dog ice cream with healthy ingredients:
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Watermelon Popsicles : Mix watermelon (without seeds) with water and freeze in ice cube trays.
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Yogurt Bites : Mix unsweetened yogurt with a little peanut butter or banana and freeze in small portions.
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Bouillon cubes : Use low-salt chicken or beef bouillon and freeze it in small ice cube trays.
3. Cooling snacks from the store
There are also ready-made cooling dog snacks available, such as:
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Frozen Chews : Special bones or chews that you can store in the freezer.
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Flavored Cooling Mats : Some cooling mats have a layer of scented liquid that is attractive to dogs.
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Ice Treats for Dogs : Available in pet stores, made from safe and healthy ingredients.
4. Fruit and vegetables as a summer treat
Many types of fruit and vegetables are not only healthy, but also deliciously refreshing:
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Cucumber : Contains a lot of moisture and is low in calories.
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Apple : Make sure you remove the seeds and cut the apple into pieces.
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Banana : Freeze in chunks for a cold treat.
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Blueberries : Rich in antioxidants and ideal as a frozen snack.
5. Safety tips for cooling snacks
While cooling snacks are ideal in the summer, there are a few things to keep in mind:
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Beware of hypersensitivity : Some dogs have difficulty tolerating dairy products, so choose lactose-free options.
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No Toxic Ingredients : Avoid grapes, raisins, chocolate, and sweeteners like xylitol.
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Avoid large pieces : Make sure the snack does not pose a choking hazard.
6. How often can your dog have a cooling snack?
Please note that treats, including cooling snacks, should not exceed 10% of the daily diet. Too many cold snacks can cause stomach upset, so give them in moderation.
Conclusion:
Cooling treats are a great way to keep your dog comfortable on hot days. With simple ingredients like watermelon, yogurt, and cucumber, you can make a refreshing treat in no time. Choose healthy, safe options, and make sure your dog always has access to fresh water and shade.
