Can Dogs Eat Popsicles? 5 Tips for Preparing Frozen Dog Treats

Dogs can eat popsicles as long as you keep a very close eye on the specific ingredients they contain. In general, dog owners should opt to feed their dogs homemade popsicles or popsicles made for dogs specifically rather than options meant for human consumption.

Popsicles can be a healthy treat for your dog on a hot day. They can deliver nutrients, aid with hydration, and prevent heatstroke. So long as you’re sure the popsicles are free of potentially toxic elements, you can let your dog lick these treats in moderation.

For example, a frozen ripe banana purée popsicle made with a little plain Greek yogurt and water would be fine for your furry friend. On the other hand, a popsicle with artificial sweeteners, frozen yogurt, or ice cream would likely cause stomach upset for your pet.

Popsicles you feed your dog should be special treats rather than a cause for a vet visit or discomfort in your pet. Keep these three ingredients out of any popsicles you give your dog:

• Artificial sweeteners: Any popsicle you feed your canine companion should go easy on natural sugars and be devoid of artificial sweeteners and additives. Sugar-free popsicles, in particular, run a higher risk of containing sweeteners like these. The main one to look out for is xylitol, a sugar alcohol highly toxic to dogs.
• Chocolate: The theobromine in chocolate can harm a dog’s digestive system and cause more severe reactions—like cardiac issues or even seizures. Refrain from giving canines any popsicles containing cocoa products of any sort.
• Dairy: Your dog can consume small amounts of dairy without incident in most cases; however, dog owners should still exercise caution with dairy products. Check with a vet to see if your dog is lactose intolerant. Opt for plain yogurt over ice cream as a popsicle base if you want to use either type. Use only small portions of dairy, as most dogs will have stomach issues with moderate to high amounts.

Feeding your dog a popsicle as a frozen treat necessitates remaining within certain parameters to keep your pet safe. Here are five general guidelines to remember:

1. 1. Ask your vet. Before you let your dog eat anything new, check with your vet to see if they anticipate problems with the food (such as the specific flavor profile or ingredients). Any summer treat you give your companion should be free of allergens, toxic substances, and other problematic ingredients. Your vet can help you identify these in both a general and specific sense.
2. 2. Feed your dog in moderation. Remember to treat popsicles as a dog treat rather than dog food. Too many popsicles can bring on canine obesity over some time. In a single feeding, give your dog only manageable pieces. This will prevent large chunks from becoming a choking hazard, especially for small dogs.
3. 3. Hold on to the popsicle stick. If the frozen treat includes a popsicle stick, it’s advisable to hold onto it as your dog licks the entire ice pop, rather than breaking off smaller pieces. This allows you greater control over their consumption. If you’re making homemade, dog-friendly popsicle treats, you can freeze small sticks in the mixture in your ice cube tray or silicone mold or forgo sticks altogether.
4. 4. Look for popsicles made for dogs. If you’d rather shop for popsicles than make them yourself, keep in mind there are some especially for dogs. You might see ones with “pupsicles” on the label—these variations contain very basic ingredients to ensure your dog’s stomach stays comfortable. For example, rather than including sugars, preservatives, and other additives, a “pupsicle” likely includes just water and dog-friendly fruit juices derived from cantaloupe, blueberries, watermelon, or others.
5. 5. Make your own homemade popsicles. With a simple popsicle mold, food processor, and dog-friendly ingredients, you can make DIY dog treats free of any toxic or problematic ingredients. You can even try out dog popsicle recipes containing dog-safe ingredients like low-sodium chicken broth, green beans, peanut butter, and others that will serve as a good source of nutrients for your dog.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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