When the UK faces a summer heatwave, our dogs need extra care to stay cool and safe. Along with fresh water, shade, and early-morning walks, frozen dog treats for hot weather are one of the best ways to help your pup stay hydrated and comfortable.
But what are the best treats for dogs in hot weather? In this guide, you’ll find both frozen and non-frozen options, including homemade recipes, store-bought suggestions, and essential summer safety tips for keeping your pup cool.
☀️ Why Frozen Treats Help Dogs Stay Cool
Dogs don’t sweat like we do. They rely on panting and a few sweat glands in their paws to cool down. That means they’re especially vulnerable when temperatures rise—especially over 25 °C.
Common signs of overheating in dogs:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or confusion
- Red or pale gums
- Vomiting or collapse
If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Always walk in the early morning or late evening during heatwaves.
👉 Read Kennel Club guidance on heatstroke prevention
🍦 Easy Frozen Dog Treats for Hot Weather
These frozen treats are quick to make with ingredients you likely already have at home. Always supervise your dog while they eat, and avoid anything that could pose a choking risk.
1. Broth Ice Cubes
Ingredients:
- Low-salt chicken or beef broth (make sure there’s no onion or garlic)
Method:
Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Drop one in your dog’s water bowl or let them lick it in the garden.
2. Banana & Berry Ice Blocks
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- A handful of blueberries
- Water
Method:
Blend the ingredients together, pour into silicone moulds or ice trays, and freeze for at least 4 hours.
3. Yogurt Pupsicles
Ingredients:
- Plain natural yogurt (no sweeteners)
- Grated apple or carrot
Method:
Mix together, spoon into silicone moulds or cupcake cases, and freeze overnight. Perfect as a mid-afternoon garden snack.
4. Frozen Kong Filler
Ingredients:
- Mashed banana or natural yogurt
- A few bits of kibble or shredded cooked chicken
Method:
Stuff a Kong or similar rubber toy and freeze it for a few hours. It keeps dogs mentally stimulated while cooling them down.
🛑 Summer Safety Tips for UK Dogs
- Avoid grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, and sweeteners like xylitol—they’re toxic to dogs
- Limit time outside between 11 am and 4 pm
- Keep your home shaded and well-ventilated
- Always provide a bowl of fresh, cool water—add ice cubes to help
- Regular grooming helps long-haired breeds regulate body temperature
👉 PDSA: 5 top tips to keep pets cool
🧊 More Cooling Ideas (That Actually Work)
- Use a pet-safe cooling mat or make one with a damp towel on the floor
- Fill a shallow paddling pool and let your dog splash around
- Freeze toys or treats for extended cooling time
- Set up a shaded corner in the garden with a sheet or parasol
- Try a cooling bandana or vest (always re-wet before use)
👉 See affordable dog cooling ideas at The Sun
📋 Quick Reference Table
| Situation | Frozen Treat Idea | Best Time to Serve |
|---|---|---|
| Hot afternoon indoors | Broth ice cube | In water bowl or shaded mat |
| Garden relaxation | Banana & berry ice block | During supervised outdoor time |
| Cooling off inside | Yogurt pupsicle | After walk or play |
| Mental stimulation | Frozen Kong | Crate time or quiet periods |
🚨 What to Do if Your Dog Overheats
If your dog shows signs of heatstroke:
- Move them to a shaded or cool area
- Offer small sips of water (not ice-cold)
- Wet their paws, groin, and belly with cool water
- Call your vet immediately
According to the British Veterinary Association: Cool first, then transport.
👉 Learn more from World Animal Protection UK
🐾 Final Thoughts
Frozen dog treats for hot weather are a simple way to protect your dog during the UK’s rising summer temperatures. By combining safe, homemade snacks with good routines, you’ll help your pup stay cool, calm, and content all season long.
