Summer’s here, and that means sunny walks, shady naps, and, if you’re anything like us, cold treats! While you’re sipping iced drinks and enjoying your summer snacks, don’t forget about your four-legged sidekick. Dogs feel the heat too, and they deserve a little something special when the temperatures rise.
Here are five refreshing and healthy summer treats your dog will love. Bonus? They’re all easy to find, simple to serve, and packed with benefits.
Watermelon (Just ditch the seeds and rind!)
Nothing says summer quite like a juicy slice of watermelon—and it turns out dogs think so too! This fruity favourite is over 90% water, making it a perfect hydrating snack on a hot day. It’s full of vitamins A, B6, and C, and it’s low in calories. Just make sure you remove the seeds and rind first, as they can be a choking hazard or cause tummy troubles.
💡 Top Tip: Cube it, chill it, or blend and freeze it in an ice tray for a DIY pup-sicle!
Crunchy Carrots
Carrots are the unsung heroes of the veggie world. They’re naturally sweet, low in calories, and dogs adore their satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re good for your dog’s teeth and full of beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
Pop a few into the fridge for a cold treat or chop them into bite-sized chunks for training rewards. They’re the crunchy snack that keeps on giving!
Brilliant Blueberries
These tiny blue powerhouses are bursting with antioxidants and vitamin C, and dogs love them too! Whether you’re popping them in a bowl or freezing them into a treat, they’re a healthy option that feels like a luxury.
💡 Fun Idea: Freeze a handful inside a Kong toy to create a brain-boosting, belly-happy activity.
Cool-as-a-Cucumber
Cucumbers are the ultimate summer snack: crisp, refreshing, and packed with water. They’re perfect for pups watching their waistlines and ideal for hydration. Slice them up and serve as-is, or pop them in the fridge for an extra-cool crunch.
Got a teething pup? A chilled cucumber stick can also be soothing on sore gums, bonus!
Bananas Gone Bananas (in the freezer!)
Bananas are basically nature’s dessert, and dogs are big fans. They’re loaded with potassium and fibre, and they’re the perfect base for all sorts of doggy treats. Slice them up and pop them in the freezer for a quick frozen snack, or mash with a spoonful of plain yoghurt and freeze in a mould for a lickable delight.
💡 Pro Tip: These are great for stuffing into toys and make the perfect hot day distraction.
What NOT to Feed
Quick heads-up: not everything in your fridge is fair game. Steer clear of grapes, raisins, onions, chocolate, and anything containing xylitol (a sweetener that’s toxic to dogs). When in doubt, look it up, or stick with these tried-and-tested goodies.
Want to Level Up? Try DIY Doggy Ice Lollies!
Blend your pup’s favourite safe ingredients, pour into ice cube trays or silicone moulds, and freeze overnight. It’s an easy way to keep your dog cool and entertained, especially useful when you’re trying to enjoy five minutes of peace in the garden!
Support Dogs for Health This Summer
Our therapy dogs bring love, comfort, and connection all year round—but they especially love a cool breeze and a belly rub in summer. If you’d like to help us keep tails wagging and support our work with vulnerable people in the community, click here to donate.
Every pound helps us train, care for, and support these incredible pups.