The National Watermelon Promotion Board sponsored these simple watermelon dog treats.
Help your dog stay cool and hydrated during hot summer days with refreshing, homemade watermelon treats. Dogs generally love the sweet, juicy flavor of watermelon, and it’s easy to turn this fruit into several safe, simple snacks your pup will enjoy.
Is watermelon safe for dogs?
Yes—watermelon can be a healthy, hydrating treat for dogs when served properly. It is low in calories, fat-free, cholesterol-free, and high in water content, making it a refreshing snack on hot days. Watermelon also contains vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids that can support overall wellness in moderation.
Important safety note: always remove the rind and seeds before giving watermelon to your dog. Seeds and rind can cause digestive upset or intestinal blockages. Choosing seedless watermelon and cutting away the green rind makes serving safe and simple.
If your dog has dietary restrictions, allergies, or a sensitive stomach, check with your veterinarian before introducing new treats.
Four simple watermelon dog treats your pup will love
Frozen Yogurt & Watermelon Dog Treats
These bite-sized frozen treats combine plain Greek yogurt with puréed watermelon for a creamy, hydrating snack. They’re easy to make using small ice molds or silicone trays and are ideal for warm afternoons.
Safety Tip: Use only plain Greek yogurt with no added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or flavorings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 12 oz plain Greek yogurt (no added sugar)
Directions
- Blend watermelon until smooth to make a puree.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt into each mold.
- Top with watermelon puree, filling the mold.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours, until solid.
- Store frozen in an airtight container and serve as needed.
Watermelon Slushies for Dogs
A quick, two-ingredient slushie that’s perfect for cooling down. Blend frozen watermelon cubes with a small amount of coconut milk until the mixture reaches a slushy consistency. Serve immediately in a shallow bowl or pack it inside a durable toy like a Kong for longer enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1/3 cup cold coconut milk
Directions
- Combine frozen watermelon and coconut milk in a blender.
- Pulse 2–3 times until you reach the desired slush consistency.
- Serve right away or freeze inside a toy for extended play.
Watermelon and Banana Pup-sicles
Combine watermelon and banana for a naturally sweet, creamy frozen treat. This two-ingredient recipe is filling and easy to freeze in molds for a fruity pup-sicle your dog will adore.
Ingredients
- 3 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 ripe banana, peeled
Directions
- Blend the watermelon and banana until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into ice molds and freeze for about 4 hours.
- Store finished pup-sicles in an airtight container in the freezer.
Simple Watermelon Slices
The easiest option is to offer chilled or frozen watermelon chunks or thin slices. Always use seedless watermelon, remove all seeds and rind, and cut into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your dog’s size. Serve as an occasional treat and avoid overfeeding due to natural sugars.
A single seedless watermelon yields plenty of treats for dogs and people alike. Save extra watermelon for salads, chilled desserts, or grilled bites to enjoy alongside your pet’s snacks.
Did you know? Every part of the watermelon can be used—including the rind, when prepared properly. Rind can be cooked or pickled for human recipes; for dogs, stick to the juicy flesh unless your veterinarian advises otherwise.
If you try any of these recipes, share photos of your dog enjoying watermelon. Tag your social posts with your favorite account names so friends and family can see your pup’s summer treats.
Slice of Joy Instagram Contest
Show what brings you joy with watermelon—your dog, a picnic, a backyard swim, or simply a juicy slice. Snap a photo, post it to Instagram, and caption “My Slice of Joy is _____________” with the hashtag #SliceOfJoyContest for a chance to win watermelon-themed prizes. Entries typically run weekly through summer events like Labor Day; check the contest host’s official channels for current details and rules.
