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These Strawberry Oat Smoothie Sticks for Dogs are a simple homemade treat you can whip up on a hot day. I created them to help my pups stay cool and hydrated during summer walks, and they have become my go to for a refreshing snack that is gentle on sensitive stomachs.
My dogs fell in love with these after our first batch and now wait by the freezer every time I pull out the tray. I love knowing exactly what is in every bite they get.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: give a natural sweetness and are full of antioxidants Look for bright red berries with a fresh smell and no white spots
- Plain Greek yogurt: adds creaminess and protein Make sure it is unsweetened and xylitol free for safety
- Rolled oats: offer chewiness and fiber Choose old fashioned oats for the best texture not quick oats
- Flaxseed meal: is optional for a boost of omega 3s and fiber Go for freshly ground for the highest benefits
- Honey: brings a touch of natural sweetness Use a local raw honey if available but skip if your dog does not need any added sugar
- Water or unsweetened coconut water: helps everything blend Coconut water adds extra hydration but plain water works in a pinch
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Rinse and hull the strawberries cutting away any hard white cores Blend them until smooth using a blender or food processor If the berries are too thick to blend easily add just enough water or coconut water for a loose puree
- Blend with Yogurt and Honey:
- Add the Greek yogurt and the honey if using into the strawberry puree Blend again until you have a creamy almost milkshake like mixture Your goal is a thick pourable base
- Mix in the Oats and Flaxseed:
- Add rolled oats and flaxseed meal to the blender Pulse just enough to combine so the oats are broken up but still add texture You want a doughy mix that holds together if pressed between your fingers
- Chill the Dough:
- If the dough feels too sticky to shape pop it in the fridge for twenty to thirty minutes Chilling makes shaping easier and prevents sticking to your hands or molds
- Shape and Freeze:
- Scoop the dough out and shape into half inch thick sticks with your hands or pack the mixture into silicone molds Place them on a parchment lined tray so they do not stick then freeze for at least three hours until totally solid
- Store the Treats:
- Once frozen transfer the sticks to a freezer safe bag or container These will keep in your freezer for up to one month Serve chilled straight from the freezer for a cool chewy snack
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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is watching my dogs enjoy the real fruit flavor I always taste a little bit myself to be sure they are just right and seeing my pups wag their tails for more makes my day
Storage Tips
Keep the smoothie sticks in a sealed freezer container and take out only what you need for the day For dogs with sensitive teeth let the treat sit at room temperature for five to ten minutes It softens beautifully without turning mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap strawberries for other dog safe fruits like blueberries banana or even a cooked and cooled pumpkin mash Unsweetened coconut yogurt works for pups needing a completely dairy free option Just make sure all swaps are dog friendly and free of additives
Serving Suggestions
These treats are a hit as an afternoon snack after a walk or playtime You can also crumble a stick over your pup’s kibble for added interest They are a great choice for training because they break into pieces easily when softened
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Cultural and Historical Context
Homemade dog treats are gaining popularity as more people want to avoid fillers and unnecessary ingredients found in store bought snacks Using real fruit and oats harkens back to traditional homemade approaches to pet care and I love knowing exactly what I am serving
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries for this treat?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. Let them thaw slightly before blending to ensure easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- → Is Greek yogurt safe for all dogs?
Plain Greek yogurt is generally safe in small amounts, but if your dog is dairy-sensitive, opt for unsweetened coconut yogurt as an alternative.
- → Can I substitute different fruits in this snack?
Absolutely! Blueberries, bananas, or pumpkin can be used in place of strawberries to provide variety and different flavors for your dog.
- → How should I store these frozen sticks?
Place the frozen sticks in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to one month for convenient serving.
- → Are these suitable for senior dogs?
Yes. Let the stick sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes before serving to soften the texture for senior dogs.
- → Do I need to include flaxseed and honey?
Flaxseed meal and honey are both optional. Flaxseed adds extra nutrients while honey offers sweetness, but neither is required for a tasty treat.