Description
Cool, protein-packed treats that’ll make your pup forget all about the summer heat while delivering serious nutrition
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Freezing Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes | Makes: 12-16 treats
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh catfish fillet, cooked and flaked (completely safe for dogs)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup cooked quinoa (cooled completely)
- 1/4 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook your catfish fillet completely until it flakes easily (about 6-8 minutes in a lightly oiled pan). Let cool and flake into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flaked catfish, low-sodium chicken broth, cooked quinoa, frozen peas, and shredded carrots.
- Drizzle with olive oil and stir until everything’s well combined and holds together nicely.
- Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds, pressing gently to eliminate air bubbles.
- Freeze for at least 3 hours until completely solid.
- Pop out the frozen treats and serve immediately, or store in freezer bags. Always let cool completely before giving to your pup!
Notes:
- Always let treats cool completely before serving to prevent mouth burns
- Amber prefers these slightly soft, so I sometimes let them thaw for 5 minutes before serving
- Check with your vet if your dog has any food allergies or dietary restrictions
- Start with small portions when introducing any new treat to your dog’s diet
Storage Tips:
- Store in freezer for up to 1 month in airtight containers or freezer bags
- Don’t leave these out—they’ll spoil quickly once thawed
- Label with date to track freshness
- Toss if you see any freezer burn or notice off smells
What Makes This Recipe Special:
These frozen catfish bites deliver lean protein and omega fatty acids that support coat health and muscle strength, while the freezing process creates a satisfying texture that helps dogs stay cool and hydrated. Unlike store-bought frozen treats, you control every ingredient, ensuring no harmful preservatives or excessive sodium that could harm your pup’s health.
Mix It Up (Dog-Safe Variations):
Senior Dog Version: Add a pinch of turmeric for joint health and substitute salmon for extra omega-3s (perfect for 8-year-old pups like Amber)
Puppy-Friendly Version: Use smaller molds and substitute cooked chicken for gentler digestion, reducing freezing time to 2 hours for softer texture
Winter Comfort Version: Replace some broth with plain pumpkin puree for a creamy, vitamin-rich treat that works year-round