5 Easy Licking Treats for Dogs That Will Keep Them Entertained

Dogs are known for their love of treats, and the act of licking is a natural behaviour that dogs engage in to express their affection and soothe themselves. Licking treats for dogs have become increasingly popular due to their ability to provide both physical and mental stimulation, as well as promoting good behaviour and bonding between dogs and their owners.

In this article, we’ll explore 5 creative licking treats that will keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and entertained.

Licking Treats for Dogs Idea #1: Frozen Yogurt PUPsicles

Frozen yogurt is a great option for dogs because it is low in lactose and easy to digest. Plus, it’s a tasty treat that can be customised with your dog’s favourite fruits and flavours.

Here’s a step-by-step instruction on how to make frozen yogurt popsicles for dogs:

Pupsicle Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana
• 1/2 cup chopped strawberries
• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)

Pupsicle Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mashed banana, and chopped strawberries.
2. Stir in the honey (optional) for added sweetness.
3. Spoon the mixture into popsicle molds or ice cube trays.
4. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until the popsicles are solid.
5. Run the mold or tray under warm water for a few seconds to loosen the popsicles.
6. Serve the frozen yogurt popsicles to your dog and watch them enjoy!

Pupsicle Tips

• Use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt to avoid added sugars and artificial sweeteners.
• Substitute the fruits with your dog’s favourites, like blueberries, raspberries, or even pumpkin puree.
• For dogs with dairy sensitivities, use lactose-free yogurt or substitute with coconut milk.
• Always check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have dietary restrictions.

By making these frozen yogurt popsicles, you can provide your dog with a refreshing and healthy licking treat that will keep them cool and satisfied during the hot summer months.

Licking Treats for Dogs Idea #2: Homemade Nut Butter

Nut butters such as peanut butter and cashew butter are delicious and nutritious options that dogs love. However, many store-bought nut butters contain added sugar, salt, and preservatives that may not be the healthiest for your furry friend. That’s why making homemade nut butter is a great alternative for your dog’s licking treats.

How to Make Homemade Nut Butter

To make homemade nut butter, all you need are nuts and a food processor. Simply roast the nuts for a few minutes in the oven until they are slightly browned and fragrant. Then, place the nuts into the food processor and blend until they reach a creamy consistency. You can add a little bit of oil if you want a smoother texture.

Tips on Using Homemade Nut Butter

Homemade nut butter can be used in a variety of licking treat recipes. You can spread it onto a lick mat or mix it with other ingredients such as plain yogurt, mashed bananas, or pumpkin puree. You can also stuff it into a Kong toy and freeze it for a longer-lasting treat.

It’s important to note that some nuts, such as macadamia nuts, are toxic to dogs. Always check with your vet before introducing any new foods into your dog’s diet.

By making homemade nut butter for your dog’s licking treats, you can provide a tasty and healthy alternative to store-bought options.

Licking Treats for Dogs Idea #3: Banana and Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Bananas are a great addition to a dog’s diet as they are low in calories and high in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. When combined with peanut butter, they make a delicious and healthy treat that your dog will love.

How to make Banana and Peanut Butter Ice Cream

To make banana and peanut butter ice cream, start by mashing ripe bananas in a bowl. Then, add in a spoonful of peanut butter and mix until it’s well combined. You can also add in a splash of unsweetened almond milk or water to make the mixture smoother.

Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone moulds and freeze for a few hours until they are solid. You can also use a lick mat to make it more interesting for your dog.

If your dog is allergic to peanuts, you can substitute peanut butter with cashew butter. You can also experiment with different fruits such as blueberries or strawberries to make alternative flavours.

Licking Treats for Dogs Idea #4: Chicken Broth

When it comes to licking treats, broth might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it can be a nutritious and delicious option for your furry friend. Here’s why:

• Broth is a great source of hydration for dogs, especially during hot weather or after exercise.
• Chicken broth can be a good source of nutrients that are important for your dog’s overall health.

Here’s how you can make chicken broth for your dog:

Ingredients for Chicken Broth for dogs

• 3kg of chicken bones
• 8 litres of filtered water

Instructions for Chicken Broth for dogs

1. Put the chicken bones in to a large pot (a 13 litre stock pot works best for this recipe).
2. Add the 8 litres of filtered water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for 2-3 hours.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool.
5. Strain the broth and discard the solids.
6. Store the broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months).

To use the broth as a licking treat, simply spread it on a lick mat or freeze it into ice cubes. You can also use the broth as a base for other licking treat recipes, such as frozen broth popsicles.

Remember to always consult with your vet before introducing new foods or treats to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has any underlying health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Licking Treats for Dogs Idea #5: Sweet Potato and Apple Mash

Sweet potatoes and apples are not only healthy but also tasty for dogs. To make sweet potato and apple mash, you’ll need:

• 1 sweet potato
• 1 apple
• Water

Instructions for Sweet Potato and Apple Mash for dogs

1. Peel and chop the sweet potato and apple into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped sweet potato and apple to a pot of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil and let the sweet potato and apple cook until they’re tender (around 15-20 minutes).
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool.
5. Mash the sweet potato and apple with a fork or potato masher until it reaches a smooth consistency.
6. Serve the mash to your pup in a lick mat or other treat-dispensing toys, such as a Kong.

If your dog has a dietary restriction, you can modify the recipe accordingly. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes for your dog.

Wrap Up

It’s time to wrap things up and give a quick recap of all the fantastic licking treats for dogs we covered today. We hope you’re feeling inspired to try them out and see how much your dogs love them!

Remember, not only are these treats fun for your pups to lick and enjoy, but they also come packed with tons of health benefits. So, what are you waiting for? Get to the kitchen and start making some delicious treats for your four-legged companions. We can’t wait to hear all about it!