Did you know that dogs don’t’ sweat, at least not the way we do? It’s the panting that helps them cool their head and to some extent their body. To help your dog keep cool, try “ice cream.” This is a treat best served outdoors, as it can be kind of messy if your dog noses it across the floor while licking away. It’s also a great treat for stuffing in a Kong. For older dogs with sensitive mouths, allow the frozen cubes to thaw for a few minutes before feeding.

INGREDIENTS

1 c water
2 chicken livers
1 c plain low-fat yogurt
1 c solid-pack pumpkin puree (note: not pie filling)

DIRECTIONS

• Bring the water and the chicken livers to boil in a small sauce pan. Decrease the heat and simmer for 8 minutes.
• Drain the livers, reserving the stock for pouring over food or making dog cookies. Allow the livers to cool, then chop finely.
• Combine the livers, yogurt, and pumpkin in a medium bowl and stir until smooth.
• Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze for 4 to 6 hours.

Yield: 12 ice-cream cubes, ¾ cup stock

This recipes is from a new cookbook we’re loving, Feed Your Best Friend Better: Easy, Nutritional Meals and Treats for Dogs (Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2012) by Rick Woodford, aka “the dog food dude.” We highly recommend checking it out for its inspiring, easy, super-healthy, vet-approved recipes your dog will adore.