The Wonders of Frozen Kongs

If you’re a dog parent, you know the importance of keeping your furry friend entertained and mentally stimulated. One of the best ways to do this is by using the trusty Kong toy – a chew-resistant rubber toy that can be stuffed with all sorts of delicious treats. But did you know that freezing your Kong can take the experience to a whole new level?

Frozen Kongs are like the ultimate doggy puzzle – they keep your pup busy for longer, as they have to work to lick and chew their way through the frozen goodness. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to cool your dog down on a hot summer day. I’m obsessed with making my own frozen Kongs for my pup, Daisy, and I’m excited to share my top tips and recipes with you.

Choosing the Right Kong

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about picking the perfect Kong toy. Kong makes a variety of sizes and shapes, so you’ll want to choose one that’s appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing power. As a general rule, go for a Kong that’s large enough for your pup to get their whole muzzle into, but not so big that they get frustrated.

I also recommend getting a few different sizes, so you can switch it up and keep things interesting. Daisy loves the classic Kong Extreme, but sometimes I’ll use the smaller Kong Puppy for her morning snack. And for those heavy chewers out there, the Kong Rubber Goodie Bone is a great option.

ihavedogs.com has a fantastic selection of Kong toys, as well as tons of other enrichment items to keep your pup entertained.

Filling the Kong

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff – filling your Kong! The possibilities are endless, but I’ve got a few go-to recipes that are sure to delight your dog.

Classic Kibble and Yogurt

This is a great option if you feed your dog a kibble-based diet. Simply take a portion of your pup’s daily kibble, mix it with a little water or low-fat plain yogurt, and stuff it into the Kong. Freeze it for a few hours, and voila – a delicious, long-lasting treat!

Peanut Butter and Banana

Peanut butter is a classic Kong filling, and when you add in some mashed banana, you’ve got a creamy, sweet treat that’s sure to keep your dog busy. Just be sure to use natural peanut butter without any added sugars or xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs.

Canned Pumpkin and Cottage Cheese

For a healthier option, try mixing canned pumpkin (not pie filling) with some low-fat cottage cheese. Pumpkin is packed with fiber and vitamins, and the cottage cheese provides a boost of protein. Your dog will love the tangy, savory flavor.

Pooch Parenting has a great video that shows you how to properly fill a Kong with moistened kibble.

Get Creative with Mix-Ins

Once you’ve got the basics down, feel free to get a little fancy with your Kong fillings. Some of Daisy’s favorite mix-ins include:

• Shredded chicken or beef
• Crumbled cooked bacon
• Peanut butter and cream cheese swirl
• Mashed sweet potato
• Frozen broth cubes
• Chopped fresh fruits and veggies

The key is to make sure whatever you use is safe for dogs and doesn’t exceed their daily caloric needs. Smart Dog University has a fantastic guide on Kong stuffing that’s worth checking out.

Timing is Everything

When it comes to frozen Kongs, timing is everything. I like to make a batch of them on the weekend, so I have a stash ready to go for the busy weekdays. That way, whenever Daisy needs a little mental stimulation or a cool treat, I can just grab a frozen Kong and give it to her.

If you’re new to the frozen Kong game, I’d recommend starting with just a simple kibble and yogurt mixture. Let your pup get used to the concept, and then you can start getting more creative with your fillings. And remember, always supervise your dog when they’re enjoying their Kong – you don’t want any choking hazards.

The Frozen Kong Advantage

Frozen Kongs offer so many benefits for our furry friends. They provide mental enrichment, encourage chewing (which is great for dental health), and can even help soothe anxious or bored dogs. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to keep your pup cool and hydrated on hot summer days.

So what are you waiting for? Head to ihavedogs.com, stock up on some Kongs, and get ready to unleash your inner doggy chef. Your pup will thank you!