Looking to keep your dog cool ahead of the upcoming heatwave? Well, a clever DIY hack known as the hydrating dog-friendly 'Ice Cake', helps to keep pups hydrated during the summer season — and it takes no time at all to make.
An Ice Cake is a bowl filled with their favourite foodie treats and toys, which is then filled with water and frozen. Take a look at how you can make them below...
You will need:
- A large bowl or container which can be placed in the freezer
- Your dog's favourite food (choose from fruit, biscuits, vegetables and treats)
- Water
- Additional liquids that your pup loves, such as chicken broth
- Chew toys
How to make the Ice Cake:
1. Place the toys and treats in the container.
2. Next, fill the container until it is about two thirds full.
3. Once you've done so, place your bowl in the freezer for several hours.
4. Remove it from the freezer, turning the 'cake' upside down so it falls out of its mould.
5. Let your pup enjoy the delicious cooling treats! For a quick version of this recipe, fill an ice cube tray with water and add a small treat to each cube. Then freeze for refreshingly fun doggy treats!
Take a look at some inspiration below:
Can you give your dogs ice cubes?
It's a great way to keep your dog cool, but should you give your dogs ice cubes? "The RSPCA advises freezing a dog's water bowl or kong before putting water or fresh treats inside (to help keep them cool for longer). We also advise putting ice cubes into your pet's water or making frozen treats to help cool them down," a spokesperson for the animal rescue charity told The Mirror.
10 must-have products to keep your dog cool during a heatwave
The layered construction of this vest is designed to keep your dog cool when the temperature rises. The outer layer reflects heat and facilitates evaporation while the middle layer absorbs and stores water for evaporation.
Crufts Crufts Medium Pet Paddling Pool
Coming in at 120cm x 30cm, dogs big or small can cool off in this durable and versatile pet paddling pool. Simply fill with water and allow your dog to come and go as they please.
Emwel Emwel Dog Water Bottle - 550ml Water Feeder Leak Proof Portable Puppy Water Dispenser with Drinking Feeder for Pets Outdoor Walking, Hiking, Travel, Food Grade Plastic For Pets
When walking your dog in hot weather, ensure they stay hydrated with this portable water bottle – complete with a built-in dispenser and mini bowl for your pet to drink from on-the-go.
Whether you're heading to the beach for the day or simply excited to enjoy a leisurely hot day in the garden, this pop-up tent offers a cosy space to keep dogs cool.
Currys PETLIBRO Capsule Water Fountain
This fountain contains a filter to keep water as pure as possible. It's a great way to encourage your pet to stay hydrated.
A must-have for warm summer days, this cooling dog mat doesn't need to be chilled or filled with water. The gel interior keeps pups cool and is best placed in a shaded space for them to feel the full benefits.
Filled with a non-toxic gel, the inner self-cooling mat in this dog bed will maintain its cooling properties for approximately 1 hour. During this time, the mat is typically 5-10 degrees cooler than room temperature.
The next best thing to an ice lolly, this chew toy can be filled with water and frozen to create a refreshing activity for your pup to enjoy.
High-quality waterproof PVC material provides a safe environment for your pets to cool down. You do not need to soak, freeze or refrigerate this pad for it to work.
Chill both your dog's water and food during a hot day with this bowl that can be kept in the freezer to give your pup a refreshing drink or meal.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
