DIY Watermelon Dog Treats
Here at Westie Wisdom, we’ve tested our fair share of dog treats—and by ‘we,’ I mostly mean Monty, my stubborn but snack-savvy Westie. He’s not easily impressed (unless cheese is involved), but these frozen watermelon bites got the full tail-wag of approval.
Monty may be the official taste tester, but this one’s a win across the board—especially for dogs who need a little extra hydration or a low-calorie treat option. Whether you’ve got a picky eater, a senior pup needing something gentle, or a high-energy puppy that deserves a reward, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Dogs lose their minds over peanut butter. They go bonkers for bacon.
But watermelon? That’s the underrated superstar of homemade dog treats. It’s juicy, hydrating, and packed with nutrients—no weird chemicals or mystery ingredients.
And guess what? Your pup will love it. Forget those overpriced store-bought “gourmet” snacks with labels you can’t pronounce.
This frozen DIY Watermelon dog treat takes just 10 minutes to prep, costs pennies, and beats anything in a plastic pouch. You don’t need to be a kitchen whiz—just bring a little love and a freezer. Ready to make your dog’s tail wag like crazy?
Why This Frozen Dog Treat Slaps (A.K.A. Why It Works So Well)
Most commercial dog treats are dry, boring, or packed with filler junk. Not these.
Watermelon dog treats are hydrating, low-calorie, and naturally rich in vitamins A and C. They’re perfect for summer cool-downs, quick training rewards, or just spoiling your furry overlord. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make and naturally sweet—so your dog thinks they’re getting dessert, while you know you’re giving them something good.
No baking. No fancy gadgets. Just a knife, a freezer, and a dog who’s about to love you even more.
They’re also super versatile:
- A few finely grated carrots for texture and nutrients
- Make larger molds for big dogs, or tiny ones for toy breeds or training sessions.
- Pour the mix into Kong-style toys to make treat time more interactive.
- Add dog-safe mix-ins like:
- Finely chopped mint for a fresh twist
- A single blueberry in each mold for extra antioxidants
Ingredients (Just 2, Plus an Optional Bonus)
- 1 cup seedless watermelon (seeds can cause blockages, so go seedless)
- 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional, but dogs go nuts for it—just make sure it’s unsweetened and xylitol-free for safety)
You’ll Also Need:
- A silicone mold or ice cube tray (makes portioning easier and less messy)
- A blender or fork for mashing, depending on your texture preference
How to Make DIY Watermelon Dog Treats in 5 Easy Steps
- Chop the watermelon into small cubes. Remove any sneaky seeds you missed.
- Blend the cubes for a smooth texture, or mash them if your dog prefers a bit of crunch.
- Stir in the yogurt if you’re using it.
Pro tip: Freeze yogurt separately and swirl it in for a fun marbled effect.
- Pour into molds or an ice cube tray. Don’t overfill unless you enjoy sticky cleanup.
- Freeze for 4+ hours. Good luck resisting your dog’s pleading eyes in the meantime.
Want to make it fancier? Drop a blueberry or a small piece of treat into the mold before pouring in the mix.
Storage: Keep ‘Em Fresh (Or Frozen)
Store these frozen dog treats in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, ideally with a layer of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They might get a little icy, but dogs don’t mind.
Want a softer bite? Let a treat thaw for 5 minutes before serving—just don’t leave them out too long unless you’re into mopping.
Pro Tip:
Label the container if you’re making different batches or flavors. No one wants a mix-up with human popsicles!
Why Your Dog Will Obsess Over These
Watermelon is 92% water, making it a naturally hydrating treat—ideal for hot days, long walks, or just lounging in the garden.
It also contains lycopene (great for heart health), potassium (for muscle function), and fiber (for smooth digestion). The optional yogurt adds probiotics that support your dog’s gut health. And since it’s low-calorie and fat-free, it’s a guilt-free indulgence even when your dog begs for a second (or third).
Plus, it’s just fun. Watching your dog crunch or lick their way through one of these is entertainment in itself.
Common Mistakes (Don’t Be That Person)
- Using seeded watermelon: Seeds can cause intestinal blockages.
Just buy seedless.
- Skipping the mold: Freezing watermelon on a plate = sticky disaster.
- Overdoing the yogurt: Too much dairy = upset stomach. Stick to a tablespoon.
- Leaving treats out: They melt faster than your dog loses interest in that expensive toy.
- Adding unsafe ingredients: Avoid artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, and no citrus or chocolate—ever.
Alternatives for Picky Pups
Some dogs just don’t vibe with watermelon (and that’s okay—every pup has their preferences). Try these swaps:
- Cantaloupe or honeydew: Same hydration benefits, different flavor.
- Pumpkin puree: Great for digestion. Just use plain canned pumpkin, no pie spices.
- Apple slices: A crunchy option. Remove seeds and core first—they’re toxic to dogs.
- Carrot juice or cucumber: Light and refreshing for dogs that prefer veggies over fruit.
Still got questions? Let’s break them down.
The Grand Finale: Cool Treats, Happy Tails
These homemade frozen dog treats are the ultimate summertime hack for keeping your pup happy, hydrated, and healthy. They’re playful, wholesome, and a lot more satisfying than digging through a bag of stale biscuits.
They’re budget-friendly, dead simple, and far better than whatever’s been lurking in your treat cupboard since last Christmas. Your dog will think you’re a genius—just like Monty did when he licked his bowl clean. And really, isn’t that kind of the point??
So go ahead—freeze some love and surprise your pup with a cool, refreshing treat they’ll go wild for. It’s a simple way to add a little joy to their day—and yours.
And hey—if Monty approves, we think your dog will too.
Hungry for more? Check out my post on 25 Easy & Healthy Homemade Dog Treats —Monty’s got a few favorites in there too!
FAQs About DIY Watermelon Dog Treats
1 . Can puppies eat watermelon treats?
Yes, but start small. Puppies have sensitive stomachs, so test with a tiny portion first. Also, supervise them to make sure they don’t gobble and choke.
2. Is yogurt safe for all dogs?
Plain Greek yogurt is safe for most dogs. If your pup is lactose intolerant, skip it to avoid gas or stomach upset. You can try a dog-friendly coconut yogurt as an alternative.
3. How many treats can I give per day?
Keep it to 1-2 small frozen treats per day. Watermelon has natural sugars, and too much could lead to an upset tummy or energy spike. Adjust portion size depending on your dog’s weight and activity level.
4. Can I use frozen watermelon?
Yes! Just thaw it a bit before blending, or your blender might start protesting. Frozen watermelon is also great if you want a thicker texture from the start.
5. What if my dog doesn’t like cold treats?
Try chilled watermelon cubes instead. Some dogs prefer a softer, room-temp snack. You can also mash it and mix with their regular food for a refreshing twist.
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