I’ve been loving making Pumpkin Coconut Dog Ice Cream at home because it’s such a simple way to treat my pup with something healthy and refreshing.
This creamy, dairy-free recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the rich texture of coconut, making it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
I like knowing exactly what goes into my dog’s treats, and Pumpkin Coconut Dog Ice Cream is one of those recipes that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (full fat or light, no added sugar)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened, unflavored; use lactose-free if your dog is sensitive)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (xylitol-free, no added salt)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey (only for dogs older than one year, optional and small amount)
How to Make It
- Measure ingredients so everything is ready. Use plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix.
- Combine pumpkin, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and peanut butter in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth. Scrape down the sides and blend again so there are no lumps.
- Taste yourself just to check texture, but do not feed the blender residue to your dog until cooled. The mix should be creamy and scoopable.
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds, an ice cube tray, or a shallow baking dish for scooping.
- Freeze for at least 3 to 4 hours until solid. For a firmer texture, leave overnight.
- Pop treats out of molds or scoop portions from the dish and serve to your dog in a suitable bowl or on a lick mat.
How to Store
Keep the treats in an airtight container or a sealed freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
For fridge storage, thaw individual portions in the refrigerator and use within 2 to 3 days.
Portion treats into small servings before freezing so you can remove only what you need without refreezing.
What Not to Do
- Do not use pumpkin pie filling. It contains spices and sugar that can harm dogs.
- Do not use sweetened or flavored coconut milk or yogurt. Avoid products with xylitol or artificial sweeteners.
- Avoid adding salt, onion, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, or macadamia nuts.
- Do not serve large portions to small dogs. Start with a small amount to check tolerance.
- Do not refreeze once thawed. Portion first to avoid waste and temperature swings.
Variations You Can Try
- Protein swap: Replace peanut butter with mashed cooked chicken or plain cottage cheese for a less fatty option.
- Texture change: Pulse in a few dog-safe banana slices before freezing for a chunkier ice cream.
- Fortified version: Stir in a teaspoon of plain canned salmon (drained) for extra omega-3s and protein.
- Shape play: Freeze in bone-shaped silicone molds or pour into a shallow pan and cut into squares after freezing.
FAQ
How much can I give my dog?
Start with a small serving, such as one or two small cubes for small breeds or a tablespoon for larger dogs. Treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily calories.
Can puppies eat this?
Yes puppies can enjoy this recipe, but avoid honey for dogs under one year old. Also use lactose-free yogurt if your pup has a sensitive stomach.
Is coconut milk safe for all dogs?
Unsweetened coconut milk is usually safe in small amounts for most dogs, but some dogs may have fat sensitivity.
If your dog has pancreatitis or a history of fat-related issues, skip the coconut milk and use more yogurt or water instead.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes. Cook and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. Make sure it is plain pumpkin without added spices or sweeteners.
How long do these treats last in the freezer?
Freeze for up to three months. Label the container with the date and use the oldest treats first.
