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There’s a reason the Kong brand is so popular with the four-legged crowd. It’s durable (even for pups with super-strength), it keeps your dog busy, and it can be stuffed with many, many tasty treats.
Need some help getting started? We’ve gathered a list of our favorite Kong stuffing recipes. Get ready to make your dog really happy.
Kong Video: Inside Peek
We recently got to check out where the magic is made at the Kong headquarters. If you’re a Kong fan (and who isn’t??) you’ve gotta see this.
Now onto the recipes!
Our Favorite Ideas for Kong Stuffing
1. Peanut Butter
Yes, this is the obvious choice—but it’s obvious for a reason! Dogs LOVE this sticky, savory snack. Try putting the peanut butter on a slice of bread, then stuffing that in for a challenge. You can also freeze a PB-stuffed Kong for longer-lasting enjoyment.
Is your dog skeptical? Put a smear of PB on the end to entice your pup to keep exploring.
Just be careful. This is a messy treat, so avoid giving this to your buddy on any rug you’re particularly fond of.
Also, always use unsweetened peanut butter. Some artificially sweetened options are dangerous for dogs.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BTMYP09lJRb/?tagged=peanutbutterkong
2. Easy Treat Filling
Want to make it really simple? Kong brand has a ready-made option: its Easy Treat fillings, which come in multiple flavors. You’ll love the nozzle that makes it easy to dispense.
Add to your already-frozen and stuffed Kong as an extra incentive, or try it by itself. The only downside is that these Easy Treat cans are quickly used up.
3. Your Leftover Snacks
Looking for something to do with your leftovers? Bet you know one furry friend who’d love to help you get rid of them.
If your dog doesn’t have food allergies, this can be an easy option for Kong stuffing. Think cooked meat (turkey, steak, etc.), rice or oatmeal, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and other dog-friendly human foods.
4. Chunks of Fruits & Veggies
Not only is this a low-calorie option, but by wedging the larger pieces into the Kong, you’re creating more of a challenge for your dog.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BTlcKsdABCb/?tagged=stuffedkong
5. Ground Meat
Yum, meat! Dogs adore this treat, which isn’t a surprise. Just plug the Kong’s opening with a dab of peanut butter or cream cheese to make sure everything stays inside.
6. Cubes of Cheese
If your dog isn’t sensitive to dairy, cheese is sure to please.
You can combine the cheese with some regular dog food to make it stretch. You can also pop the Kong into the microwave for a few seconds to make the cheese soft. Just be sure the Kong is cool before you give it to your pet.
Don’t have time to cube? String cheese is your friend.
7. Bananas
This is a super-quick solution when you’re running out the door and need something for the pup.
Slice a banana in half and put it in the Kong: Voilà! You can add peanut butter to seal it in, or plain yogurt for a protein burst.
8. Canned Pumpkin
Does your dog have a sensitive tummy? This might be a treat for them. Make sure you’re giving them the healthy stuff that doesn’t contain any added sugar (definitely don’t use pumpkin pie filling).
Mixing the pumpkin with oatmeal, rice, peanut butter, or meat is a great way to slip in some healthy fiber.
9. Tuna
This is a healthy option that is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your dog’s skin and coat.
Try mixing the tuna with plain yogurt, or throw in some grated veggies for good measure. Stuff the Kong with the mixture, freeze, and voilà.
10. Canned Dog Food & Kibble
This might seem like another obvious stuffing solution, but there’s something to be said for simplicity. Plus, the canned dog food freezes well and helps the kibble stay put.
https://www.instagram.com/p/sJIBBQSge4/?tagged=stuffedkong
11. Mix ‘n Match
If you want to get fancy, you can combine lots of ingredients. Follow these basic steps and get creative!
- Use wholesome ingredients (the less processed, the better)
- Include something sticky or paste-like to help keep the filling inside
- Avoid dangerous or unhealthy foods for dogs
We like this “Denver omelet” Kong recipe from SheKnows, and this “chicken pot pie” stuffing from the Kong website (which includes a wealth of other recipe ideas.)
Pro tip: buy multiple Kongs and keep some in the freezer for whenever you need them. It’s nice to have them easily accessible when you’re running out the door.
That’s some professional dog parenting right there!
For more great ideas, check out the Kong Solution video series on the company’s YouTube channel.
