Can You Make Christmas Dog Treats With Icing?

Sep 3, 2025

The holiday season isn’t just for humans—our furry friends deserve festive cheer too! Many dog owners love baking homemade Christmas dog treats and wonder if they can decorate them with icing, just like cookies for people. The short answer: yes, but it has to be dog-safe icing made with pet-friendly ingredients.

In this post, we’ll explore what types of icing are safe for dogs, how to make your own at home, and some helpful tips to ensure your pup enjoys delicious and healthy holiday treats.

Why Dog-Safe Icing Matters

Human icing often contains sugar, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs), butter, and chocolate—all of which are unsafe for pets. That’s why it’s essential to use special dog-friendly icing recipes. These can be made from ingredients like yogurt, tapioca starch, or carob, giving treats a festive touch without risking your dog’s health.

Easy Dog-Safe Icing Recipes

Here are a few simple and safe options:

Yogurt Icing – Mix plain Greek yogurt with a little cornstarch until thick.
Carob Icing – Melt unsweetened carob chips and mix with a small amount of coconut oil.
Potato Starch Icing – Combine potato starch with water for a smooth, white icing texture.

These icing options harden slightly and look great on festive dog cookies.

Decorating Ideas for Holiday Dog Treats

Use icing to draw Christmas trees, paw prints, or snowflakes.
Add carob chips as “buttons” or “eyes.”
Use natural food coloring (like beet powder or spinach powder) for holiday colors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can dogs eat regular sugar icing?
No. Regular sugar icing may upset your dog’s stomach and can lead to obesity or diabetes. If it contains xylitol, it’s extremely toxic.

2. What kind of icing is safe for dogs?
Icing made from plain yogurt, carob, or starch-based recipes is safe in moderation.

3. How long do iced dog treats last?
Homemade iced dog treats typically last 5–7 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

4. Can I buy ready-made dog treat icing?
Yes. Some pet supply stores and online shops sell dog-safe icing mixes made specifically for pet treats.

Final Thoughts

Decorating Christmas dog treats with icing is a fun way to include your pup in the holiday festivities. Just remember to stick to dog-friendly ingredients and keep the decorations simple. Your furry friend won’t care about fancy designs—they’ll just love the taste and the fact that you made it special for them.

✅ Helpful Notes:

Always avoid xylitol, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners.
Use icing sparingly—treats should be a holiday indulgence, not an everyday snack.
Freeze extras for later use.