Interactive feeders, like treat-dispensing toys, slow feeders, or puzzle bowls, are a fantastic way to engage your dog mentally and physically. They slow down eating, support digestion, and keep your dog entertained. Here are some easy, healthy, and dog-friendly recipes to make mealtime or snack time more exciting for your furry friend!
1. Peanut Butter & Pumpkin
Perfect for: Kong feeders, treat-dispensing toys
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (no sugar or additives)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol, as it's toxic to dogs)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- Mix pumpkin, peanut butter, and yogurt together in a bowl until smooth.
- Spoon the mixture into the feeder, packing it down well.
- Freeze for a few hours for longer-lasting enjoyment, or serve fresh if you want it softer.
Benefits: Pumpkin is great for digestion, peanut butter adds healthy fats, and yogurt provides probiotics to support gut health.
2. Chicken & Sweet Potato Mash
Perfect for: Slow feeders, puzzle bowls
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup mashed sweet potato
- 1 tbsp dog-safe bone broth (optional, for added flavour)
Instructions:
- Mix the shredded chicken with the mashed sweet potato. Add a spoonful of bone broth if desired.
- Spread this mixture into the feeder, pressing down to ensure it's secure.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate to make it a bit firmer.
Benefits: This protein-packed recipe with sweet potato provides vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
3. Berry Delight Freeze
Perfect for: Kong-style feeders, puzzle feeders
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- Mash or blend the berries with the yogurt until smooth.
- Spoon this mixture into your dog’s feeder.
- Freeze until firm for a refreshing summer treat.
Benefits: Blueberries and strawberries are full of antioxidants and low in calories, making this a perfect treat for hot days!
4. Veggie & Cheese Medley
Perfect for: Puzzle bowls, slow feeders
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1/4 cup low-fat cottage cheese or shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Mix the chopped carrots and peas with cottage cheese or shredded cheese.
- Pack this mixture into the feeder, ensuring it's spread out for your dog to enjoy the chase.
- Refrigerate if you’d like the mixture firmer, or serve right away.
Benefits: Carrots and peas provide fibre, vitamins, and minerals, while cheese adds a tasty protein boost.
5. Banana & Oat Mash
Perfect for: Puzzle feeders, slow feeders
Ingredients:
- 1/2 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup oats (dry or soaked)
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
Instructions:
- Mash the banana and mix in the oats and peanut butter until well combined.
- Press this mixture into the feeder.
- Freeze for extra challenge or serve fresh.
Benefits: Bananas are rich in potassium, oats provide fiber, and peanut butter adds healthy fats.
Tips for Using Interactive Feeders
- Freeze the recipes: Freezing treats or meals in an interactive feeder can prolong feeding time and make it even more stimulating.
- Combine recipes: If you have a large feeder or just want to switch things up, layer different recipes or rotate ingredients.
- Adjust quantities: If your dog is on a specific diet, consider these as treats and adjust your dog’s meals accordingly.
Interactive feeders with homemade treats make mealtime fun and mentally engaging for dogs of all ages. Try these recipes to keep your dog entertained, nourished, and excited for every meal! Shop our range of interactive toys and interactive feeders.