DIY Cool-Down Refreshments for Dogs: 6 Easy UK Heatwave Treats
When the UK weather spikes and pavements turn into frying pans, one of the kindest things you can do for your dog is give them something cold, safe, and simple to enjoy. Frozen treats are a brilliant way to help them cool down from the inside while keeping them hydrated and entertained.
Best of all? You don’t need fancy ingredients or a pet shop trip. Most of these cool-down refreshments use things you probably already have in your kitchen.
Below are six easy, dog-safe DIY ideas that are especially popular during UK heatwaves.
1. Frozen Broth Ice Cubes / Dog Ice Lollies
Why dogs love them: Savoury, hydrating, and perfect for slow licking, which helps regulate temperature and calm anxious pups
What you need:
Low-salt chicken, beef, or bone broth (no onion or garlic)
Ice cube trays or lolly moulds
How to make them:
Check the label to ensure the broth is free from onion, garlic, and high salt.
Pour the broth into trays or moulds.
Freeze for 4-6 hours or overnight.
Pop out one or two and let your dog lick or crunch as a cooling snack.
Tip: For extra appeal, add a few small pieces of cooked chicken or a sprinkle of parsley before freezing.
2. Yogurt–Fruit Popsicles
Why they’re great: Creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with gut-friendly probiotics from plain yogurt.
What you need:
Plain, low-fat, unsweetened yogurt (Greek or regular)
Dog-safe fruit/veg: mashed banana, blueberries, grated carrot, or pureed pumpkin
Moulds or an ice tray
How to make them:
Mix yogurt with a small amount of mashed fruit or veg (e.g. half a banana and a handful of blueberries).
Spoon into moulds or trays.
Freeze until solid.
Offer one as a midday cool-down treat.
Avoid: Chocolate, xylitol-sweetened products, grapes/raisins, and anything with artificial sweeteners.
3. Frozen Kongs / Stuffed Chews
Why they work: Long-lasting, mentally stimulating, and perfect for keeping dogs occupied while they cool down.
What you need:
A Kong or similar rubber chew toy
Filling options:
Wet dog food + a little water or broth
Plain yogurt + mashed banana/carrot
Xylitol-free peanut butter thinned with water
How to make them:
Mix your chosen filling until it’s spoonable but not runny.
Stuff the Kong firmly, tapping it on the counter to remove air pockets.
Freeze for at least 3–4 hours.
Defrost for 20–30 minutes before giving so it’s not rock-hard on teeth.
Tip: For extra challenge, layer different fillings (e.g. yogurt at the bottom, peanut butter on top)
4. Simple “Ice Cream” for Dogs
Why it’s special: A fancy-feeling treat that’s actually very simple and much safer than human ice cream.
What you need:
Plain yogurt or unsweetened goat’s milk
Dog-safe fruit: banana, blueberries, a tiny bit of apple (no seeds)
How to make it:
Blend yogurt or goat’s milk with a small amount of fruit until smooth.
Pour into small cups, silicone moulds, or an ice tray.
Freeze until firm.
Serve as a special “pup ice cream” on very hot days.
Never use: Human ice cream (too much dairy, sugar, and possible chocolate)
5. Frozen Veggie Treats
Why they’re brilliant: Crunchy, low-calorie, and naturally hydrating - ideal for dogs who love to gnaw.
What you need (choose one or mix):
Whole rinsed carrots
Cucumber sticks
Chunks of watermelon (seeds removed)
How to make them:
Wash and cut veg/fruit into dog-safe sizes (big enough not to be swallowed whole)
Place on a tray and freeze for a few hours.
Offer one or two as a cold snack.
Tip: Great for dogs on a diet or those who need gentle, low-sugar cooling options.
6. Chilled Water Bowls & Ice in Water
Why it matters: The simplest, most overlooked cool-down tool is cold, fresh water available in multiple spots.
What to do:
Place several water bowls around the house and garden.
Refresh with cool water frequently during hot days.
Add a few ice cubes to one or two bowls so your dog can drink slightly chilled water throughout the day.
Tip: Some dogs prefer drinking from a shallow, wide bowl; others like a deeper dish. Offer both styles if you can.
Safety Notes for All Frozen Treats
Portion control: Treats (even healthy ones) should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
Introduce slowly: Start with small amounts to check for any tummy upsets.
Watch for choking: Always match treat size to your dog’s size and chewing style.
Know the no-go foods: Never use chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, or high-salt/high-sugar products.
Make a “Heatwave Treat Box”
For busy days, prep a small batch of each:
One tray of broth cubes
One set of yogurt popsicles
One or two frozen Kongs
A bag of frozen veggie sticks
Store them in labelled containers so you can grab a cool-down refreshment in seconds when the temperature spikes.
These DIY cool-down treats are perfect for UK heatwaves: simple, budget-friendly, and made from ingredients you already trust. Your dog gets hydration, mental enrichment, and a delicious way to beat the heat, all in one lick.
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