Watermelon Ice Coolers: A Simple Summer Recipe

Why we wanted to share this

Shiro absolutely loves the sound of a watermelon being sliced. It's his favorite summer sound! These frozen treats are our secret weapon for keeping him occupied and cool when the temperature spikes.

Store-bought dog ice creams are often full of sugar and dairy that can upset a dog's stomach. Plus, they can be surprisingly expensive for what they are.

When reviewing options, our primary goal is to help you with making your own treats at home using fresh fruit and just a few minutes of prep time. We want to share our practical experiences so you can find the right fit for your home without making expensive mistakes.

What we look for (and you should too)

You can make these either 'pure fruit' or 'creamy style'. Pure fruit is just blended watermelon, which is very low calorie. Creamy style adds a bit of plain curd, which gives them a richer texture that some dogs prefer.

We usually make a big batch at the start of the week. They keep perfectly in the freezer for up to a month, though in our house, they rarely last more than three days!

• Watermelon is 92% water, making it perfect for hydration.
• Never include seeds or the hard green rind in your treats.
• Plain curd or coconut water makes a great base for the freeze.
• Silicone molds make popping the treats out much easier.

The shortlist: Options worth considering

Every home has its own rhythm and every dog has unique habits. The short list below represents the tools and gear we found to be the most reliable during our testing.

Who should buy this type of product

If your dog is a fast eater, these frozen treats are a great way to slow them down. It takes them time to lick the ice, which also provides a bit of mental enrichment.

Keep a bag of these in the freezer for after-walk rewards. It helps their internal temperature drop faster after being outside.

Who should skip or keep expectations modest

Skip the curd if your dog has a sensitive stomach or is lactose intolerant. Plain blended fruit is just as delicious and much safer for them.

Don't give too many at once. Even though it's healthy, watermelon contains natural sugars that should be enjoyed in moderation.

Key considerations before you click buy

Before purchasing, it is important to evaluate the product against your dog's size, temperament, and your daily household routine. Here are the core factors we recommend keeping in mind:

• Make sure every single seed is removed before blending.
• Use only plain, unsweetened curd if you choose the creamy option.
• Start with small portions to see how your dog's tummy handles the cold.

Simple ways to get more value from it

Even the best gear works better when you integrate it smoothly into your existing schedule. These are a few simple tips that have made the daily routine easier for us:

• Add a blueberry in the middle of each mold for a surprise 'crunch'.
• If you don't have molds, use an old ice cube tray.
• Run the mold under warm water for three seconds to release the treats easily.

Our final take

There is something so satisfying about watching your dog enjoy a healthy treat you made yourself. It's simple, cheap, and much better for them than anything in a box.

Watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit for a reason. Use it to keep your pup happy, hydrated, and very, very cool.