Dog Popsicles to Cool Your Canine

Help your pup keep cool during these long, hot summer days. Frozen concoctions – doggie popsicles, if you will – are easy to whip up. They're also very economical ... and dogs love 'em!

Most recipes for frozen dog treats include peanut butter. I like this basic recipe from the Humane Society best: combine peanut butter with a bit of water or mashed banana. Freeze your mixture in ice cube trays or just pop spoonfuls onto a cookie sheet. For really large dogs, you can make super-sized chillers using paper cups.

Think peanut butter's boring? Check out EHow's suggestions for more creative combos. How about garlicky tuna and yogurt? Or apples with yogurt and liver? Yeah, I think it sounds gross, too, but your dog will probably sell his soul for a taste.

Smart tip: If your canine is a hard-core chewer, stuff a Kong toy with the mix. It will take him much longer to gnaw and lick his way through the filling if it's frozen, which is a great way to keep your four-legged buddy busy ... and, hey, it will help keep your floor clean as well if the food is contained inside a toy.

Picky pooch? Use meat broth or a little gravy instead of or in addition to water. You can also add little meat chunks to your frozen treats.

Finally, are you pressed for time? Don't even bother with the blender. Simply toss some dog-friendly treats into the freezer. Many dogs love frozen bananas, carrots and – of course! – mini sausages and pieces of cheese. Frozen green beans and baby carrots are a good choice for tiny dogs who need to watch their weight.

Some dogs love to crunch on plain old ice cubes, too. If so, you can always jazz them up some more by suspending small dog treats in each individual ice cube.

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