Tips for Safe, Dog-Friendly Treats
- Use only plain yogurt. Flavored yogurts often contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be dangerous for dogs. Choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt with no added sweeteners.​
- Introduce slowly. While strawberries and blueberries are generally safe for dogs, always start with a small amount to check for digestive upset or allergies.​
- Mind portion size. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. For small dogs, use smaller molds or break treats into pieces.​
- Watch the fat content. If your dog has pancreatitis or needs a low‑fat diet, choose nonfat or low‑fat Greek yogurt and confirm with your vet before offering dairy‑based treats.​
- Supervise while eating. Especially with very small dogs or enthusiastic chewers, keep an eye on them to ensure they’re chewing and not trying to swallow large frozen pieces whole.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Yogurt dog treats are designed to be made ahead and stored in the freezer.
- Freezer storage: Keep the treats in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2–3 months. They’ll stay firm and ready to serve straight from the freezer.​
- Serving: Remove only as many treats as you plan to give at once so they don’t melt and refreeze into a clump. If a treat is too hard, you can let it sit at room temperature for a minute or two before offering it.
Because these are frozen and contain dairy, refrigeration alone isn’t ideal for storage; they’ll soften and weep liquid over time. Always store them frozen.
FAQs
Are strawberries and blueberries really safe for dogs?
Yes, in moderation. Both fruits are generally considered safe for healthy dogs and can provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They should be washed, trimmed of stems or leaves, and cut into small pieces for easy chewing.​
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Plain, unsweetened regular yogurt is usually fine, but Greek yogurt is thicker, has more protein, and tends to freeze into a creamier, less icy texture. Whichever you choose, make sure it contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners.​
My dog is lactose intolerant—are these okay?
Some dogs tolerate small amounts of yogurt better than milk because of the fermentation process, but lactose‑intolerant dogs may still have issues. In that case, ask your vet before offering yogurt treats, or consider lactose‑free or coconut‑based dog‑safe alternatives.​
Can I add other fruits?
Many recipes use dog‑safe fruits such as banana, apple (without seeds), or watermelon. Always verify that a fruit is safe for dogs, remove seeds, pits, or rinds, and introduce new ingredients in small amounts.​
How often can I give these treats?
These should be occasional rewards rather than everyday snacks. Frequency depends on your dog’s size, diet, and health; for many dogs, one or two small frozen treats a few times a week is plenty. When in doubt, check with your veterinarian.​
Conclusion and Call to Action
Yogurt dog treats with strawberries and blueberries are an easy, three‑ingredient way to give your pup a cool, fruity reward that feels special but stays simple and wholesome. With just a bit of chopping, filling, and freezing, you can keep a stash of homemade treats on hand all summer long.
If you make these yogurt dog treats, share which molds you used, how your dog liked them, and whether you tried any safe fruit variations. Leave a note with your favorite tips so other pet parents can confidently whip up a batch for their own four‑legged friends.