One of my favorite snacks are popsicles. My pup seems to enjoy them as well, so I started making him his own low-sugar treat. Confession, I gave the pupsicle a try, and while it is a tad tart, it’s actually really tasty! I hope you enjoy this super easy and tasty recipe! Be sure to tag me and Tito (@TitoHoldTheVodka) on Instagram if you do!
Ingredients
Greek Yogurt - Fage Total Plain Non-fat 0%
Frozen Berries (blueberry, blackberry, raspberry)
Unsweetened Shredded Coconut
Water
Coconut oil (optional)
Ice-pop molds
Craft Sticks (or reuse your own if you have an addiction to Outshine Bars like I do)
Recipe (of sorts)
I didn’t list any measurements in the ingredients list because every mold and dog is different. While my pup enjoys yogurt and berries, yours may not, or you may have never given these foods to your pup. Modify as necessary. At the end of this blog I list potential benefits and warnings for the ingredients. I’d recommend speaking to your vet if you have any concerns.
The amount of yogurt you use will depend on whether you use non-fat and non-dairy yogurt or regular yogurt. I recommend using a non-fat Greek yogurt. This is the main ingredient, so you’ll need enough to fill at least 3/4 of each mold. If you’re using a regular yogurt, be sure to check the ingredients for any artificial sweeteners (see the disclaimer at the end). Consider using less of regular yogurt and more water.
If you’re using Greek yogurt, add a couple tablespoons of cold water to the yogurt and mix well to slightly thin the mixture out. If you’re using a yogurt with dairy, consider using 1 parts cold water to 3 parts yogurt.
Every dog is different. My pup, Tito, loves berries! If you’ve never given your dog berries before, I’d use them sparingly and monitor how your dog responds to them. If your dog is new to berries, consider adding only a couple berries to each pupsicle. If your dog is a fan of berries, add one to two tablespoons of frozen berries per pupsicle.
Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to your mixture to add some sweetness and additional health benefits. This is completely optional and only should be added if you have high quality coconut oil. If you’re unsure if your coconut oil is “high quality”, it’s better to play it safe and leave this ingredient out.
Time to get creative! How you add the shredded coconut is truly up to you. I poured my yogurt mixture into the molds before adding the coconut on the bottom to give it a frosty look. You can also just mix the shredded coconut into the yogurt. Use the shredded coconut sparingly, only a teaspoon at the most per pupsicle. If your pup has any dietary issues, I’d suggest using even less.
Once your mixture has been poured, remember to add your craft sticks or the plastic stick that came with your mold and pop your pupsicles in the freezer.
The pupsicle should only be used as occasional treats and should never be given to an unattended pup. Left to his own devices, Tito would eat the pupsicle and craft stick.
Benefits
Benefits of Yogurt
Greek yogurt is high in calcium and protein and contains probiotics. Greek yogurt also has a low lactose level, in comparison to regular (dairy) yogurt.
Warning
Be sure to read the ingredients of your yogurt if you are not using a Greek yogurt. Many of our sugar-free foods contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener, that is toxic for dogs.
Dogs cannot digest dairy like humans do. At best, you’ll have a gassy pup, at worst your pup may have the runs or other gastrointestinal issues. If you notice any negative side affects be sure to contact your vet.
Benefits of Berries
Blueberry, blackberry and raspberries are great low-calorie, high fiber and antioxidant treats for dogs. These fruits have vitamins A, B, C, E, K as well as minerals that have the extra benefit of being anti-inflammatory and strengthening the immune system.
Warning
Fruits are high in natural sugar and should only be used as a treat in a dog’s diet.
If you’re looking to try this recipe with other fruits be sure you consider the sugar content (berries tend to have lower levels of sugar) and steer clear from citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, etc.) and grapes.
Benefits of Coconut
When ingested, coconut can improve a dog’s fur and help reduce any yeast infections, allergies, or dry/itchy skin. Coconut is also anti-inflammatory and high in anti-oxidants, so it has similar benefits to berries.
Warning
Coconuts contain medium chain triglycerides which can cause gastrointestinal issues.
As always, consider speaking to your vet before making changes to your pet’s diet.