Like most dogs, your pup probably enjoys a good treat. So why not surprise him with something delicious and refreshing? With the weather steadily getting warmer you and your pup may find yourselves spending more time outdoors. Now, when you sit down to enjoy a cool snack Fido can as well. By picking up a few ingredients and following some quick and easy steps you can whip up these peanut butter-banana and yogurt pupsicles!

Why you and your dog will love these:

You and your dog will love these icy treats because they are packed with nutritious and yummy ingredients like peanut butter, bananas and yogurt.  So why are these foods great for your pooch you might ask?

Peanut butter -Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein which is fundamental to your dog’s overall health. Your dog needs protein to support healthy muscles, bones, connective tissue and metabolism and also to help carry nutrients throughout her body, just to name a few. Protein is essential! Aside from protein, peanut butter is also contains vitamins B and E, niacin and heart-healthy fats.

Bananas-Rich in potassium and vitamin C there is nothing not to like about bananas and your dog will love them too! Potassium helps your dog’s body regulate enzymes to help keep your dog’s nerves and muscles healthy. Moreover, vitamin C is excellent for your dog’s immune system.

Yogurt -Like bananas, yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium. Also, yogurt contains healthy bacteria, which is wonderful for maintaining a healthy digestive tract in your dog. When selecting yogurt for your pooch’s pupsicles, make sure it does not contain any artificial flavors, sweeteners or preservatives.

Molasses – If feeding your dog molasses, make sure it is of high quality. Also, dogs should only enjoy molasses in moderation. Molasses, while providing a sweetness your pup will love, also is rich in nutrients like magnesium, calcium, iron, selenium, copper, potassium, manganese and vitamin B6.

Rawhide twist – Used for holding your pupsicle, your dog will be thrilled when at the end of her treat she will find a fun, chewy rawhide twist to gnaw on.

Ingredients

4 cups of all natural vanilla yogurt

1 16 oz jar of banana baby food

1 tbsp. of molasses

2 tbsp. of creamy peanut butter

4 Rawhide twists

4 8oz (or larger) paper cups (to use as pupsicle molds)

Instructions

1. Mix the yogurt, baby food, molasses and peanut butter in a blender until smooth.
2. Fill each cup about a quarter of the way. Try to pour the mixture equally among the 4 cups.
3. Allow mixture to set in freezer for 30 minutes.
4. Add 1 swizzle stick to each cup and then pour the remaining mixture equally among the 4 cups.
5. Allow the mixture a good 8 hours to freeze.
6. When ready, you should be able to easily tear and peel off the paper cup from the treat.
7. Enjoy!
8. Make more; try substituting other dog-friendly fruits like blueberries or strawberries.

What never to use in your pupsicles:

Just a note, do not ever use wooden popsicle sticks in your pupsicles as they can splinter and get lodged inside of your dog’s throat, stomach and intestines, which can cause great harm to your pooch. If in doubt, always check with your vet to make sure a food is safe for your pet.