How to Make a Tasty Ice Block for Your Dog

A calming, enriching activity for your dog to relax and be entertained

A great way to keep your dog busy while you are busy or out of the house:

Dogs thrive on activities that engage their senses, soothe their minds, and keep them occupied in healthy ways. An ice block — often called an “ice lick” — is a simple, safe, and wonderfully effective enrichment tool that provides mental stimulation, cooling comfort, and a long-lasting calming activity. It’s perfect for busy families, managing separation anxiety, times when your dog needs a little extra help settling while you’re away or a fun snack or meal on hot days.

Why Ice Licks Help Dogs Relax

Licking acts as a naturally calming behaviour for dogs. It lowers arousal, reduces restlessness, and helps soothe mild anxiety. Combined with gentle mental stimulation — sniffing, licking, problem-solving — an ice lick becomes a powerful enrichment tool that supports your dog’s emotional wellbeing.

Ice licks encourage slow, steady engagement while reducing boredom. They are considered a safe activity while the owner is busy and offer hydration when made with a diluted broth.

 

What You’ll Need

To make a simple, safe, and tasty ice block:

• A large container (old ice cream tub, yoghurt tub, or similar)

• 500 ml – 2 litres of diluted animal stock or bone broth (  No added salt, no garlic or onion, no sugar)

  A handful of dog-safe add-ins, such as:

  • Dog kibble

  • Veggies such as green beans, chopped broccoli heads, carrot pieces, peas

  • Dog-friendly fruit like Blueberries or small amounts of banana or watermelon

    
    

How to Make the Ice Block

1. Prepare the Base

Fill your container with 500 ml to 1 litre of diluted broth depending on the size of the container. One-third broth to two-thirds water is great, but there are no hard or fast rules. Bigger containers make longer-lasting fun. Dilution helps reduce sodium.

2. Add the Goodies

Sprinkle in your chosen dog-safe foods.

These create layers of scent, flavour, and texture that keep your dog engaged.

3. Freeze Overnight

Place the container in the freezer and leave it overnight to fully set.

4. Release the Ice Block

Run warm water over the outside of the container to loosen the ice.

Tip it out onto grass, a patio, or a hard floor.

5. Serve

Give the ice block to your dog when you’re heading out or need them calmly occupied for a few hours.

Safety Tips

Your ice lick is safe and beneficial when used thoughtfully. Keep these points in mind:

Supervision

If your dog is a strong chewer, let the ice soften slightly before giving it to prevent tooth strain, but most dogs will opt for licking.  You should supervise your dog the first time using this method of enrichment to determine how they are going to respond.

Mess Management

Ice licks melt — best served outdoors or on hard floors.

Ingredient Safety

Avoid:

• Onion or garlic (including powders)

• Xylitol (often found in peanut butter)

• Grapes, raisins, chocolate, macadamia nuts

Heat Considerations

Ice licks help cool and calm dogs, but they are not a treatment for heatstroke.

Calorie Awareness

Could your Ice Block replace a meal? Follow the 90/10 rule: 90% of calories are from meals, 10% or less from treats.  Your ice block can be used as a meal, especially when you include your usual dog kibble or raw food; it does not have to be used simply as a treat.

Always remember to consider your dog's individual daily dietary requirements.

Storage

You can make several at once — store extra ice licks in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3–4 weeks.

Need Help?

Need Help?

If your dog struggles with separation, restlessness, or settling when you leave, a professional dog trainer can help you build confidence, independence, and calm behaviour in ways your dog naturally understands.

Informational Disclaimer

This article is intended as general information to help you support your dog’s wellbeing. Every dog is different, so please consult your veterinarian or a qualified professional if you have any concerns about your dog’s nutritional needs, health, or suitability for specific treats or activities.