Have you ever ordered a 'Puppuccino' from Starbucks for your dog? When treating yourself to a coffee, it certainly seems like a fun idea to order your pet their own frothy drink at the same time. However, what looks like a lovely fun treat for your dog really isn't that good for them. A Starbucks Puppuccino consists of aerated whipped cream in a cup which, whilst acceptable as an occasional luxury, could cause issues for your pet's teeth and gastrointestinal tract in the long run.

With the help of Verm-X fan Rufus, we've put together our own take on the Starbucks Puppuccino. Featuring gut-healthy ingredients for your dog, including kefir, our Verm-X Flea & Tick Powder for Dogs and topped with a Crunchie, this delicious treat is sure to be a hit with your pet.

Benefits of kefir for dogs

Kefir is a fermented dairy drink similar to a thin yogurt that is made from kefir grains and milk from cows, goats, or sheep. Kefir is packed with probiotics, vitamins and beneficial yeast which can help maintain a healthy gut, as well as:

  • Promote a healthy skin & coat
  • Strengthen the digestive system 
  • Soothe an upset stomach

Kefir is a great alternative to yoghurt but keep in mind that some dogs are allergic to dairy or be lactose-intolerant. In this case, coconut kefir is a great alternative and can be substituted easily into this recipe. 

is puppuccino safe for dogs

Organic pumpkin puree 

Highly nutritious, full of natural antioxidants and high in vitamins, pumpkin is a great addition to your dog’s diet.

You can add raw pumpkin to your dogs meals as a fibre-rich ingredient, however it’s easier for pets to digest when it has been lightly cooked..

To make our organic pumpkin puree, we cut a Duchy Organic Pumpkin in half and scooped out the seeds (don't throw the seeds away, they can be added to your dog's food as a great fibre-source, or fed to wild birds). 

Place the pumpkin halves on a lined baking sheet and cook them in the oven for 40 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius. 

Once the pumpkin has cooled, spoon out the soft flesh and puree unseasoned using a blender or food processor.

You can make the pumpkin puree in advance and it will keep for about a week in the fridge.

 

Pumpkin & kefir puppuccino

This recipe will make enough for one large dog, but you can halve it for a smaller breed.

Ingredients:

Method:

Combine the pumpkin puree, kefir and Verm-X Flea & Tick Powder with 110g of ice and blend until smooth. Pour into a paper cup, top with a squirt of light whipped cream and add a Crunchie to garnish.

We'd love to see your photos of your dog enjoying their healthy Puppuccino, don't forget to tag us on Facebook and Instagram.

We're always looking for fun, healthy recipes to share on our website.  If you've got a recipe that you love to make for your pet, please contact us and we'd be happy to share it.

 

April 13, 2022 — Clementina Davies
Tags: Recipes