1. Start by dicing your venison heart into small, bite-sized pieces about the size of your pinky nail—this prevents choking and makes them perfect for dogs of all sizes.
2. Distribute the diced venison heart evenly among your ice cube tray compartments, filling each about halfway (if your dog starts begging from the smell alone, you’re doing it right).
3. Pour the low-sodium beef broth over the meat until each compartment is full but not overflowing—tap the tray gently to release air bubbles for cleaner-looking cubes.
4. Freeze overnight or until completely solid—resist the urge to serve them early because partially frozen treats are messy and less satisfying for your pup.
5. Pop out the frozen treats and serve immediately—always let your dog enjoy these outside or on an easy-to-clean surface because they can get wonderfully messy.

Notes

• Always let treats freeze completely before serving for safety and maximum enjoyment
• Amber prefers these slightly softened, so I sometimes let them sit for 2-3 minutes before serving
• Perfect size for training rewards when broken into smaller pieces
• Watch your dog while they enjoy these to ensure they’re handling the size appropriately

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months maximum
• Don’t leave these out at room temperature—they’ll spoil and create a mess
• Toss immediately if you notice any off odors or freezer burn
• Label with the date because they disappear quickly in most households

What Makes This Recipe Special

The combination of high-quality organ meat protein and cooling ice creates the perfect summer treat that provides both nutrition and relief from heat. Unlike store-bought frozen treats filled with preservatives, you control every ingredient while giving your dog premium taurine and B-vitamins naturally found in venison heart.

Mix It Up (Dog-Safe Variations)

Hydration Boost Version: Add an extra splash of bone broth for dogs who need encouragement to drink more water during hot weather.

Veggie Crunch Addition: Layer in finely diced carrots or green beans for extra texture and vitamins (great for dogs who love variety).

Senior Dog Softer Version: Use slightly less meat and more broth for easier chewing, perfect for older pups like my 8-year-old Amber who appreciates gentler textures.