Kong-tastic Ideas: 5 Delicious Kong Recipes Your Dog Will Love

Dog enrichment is more than just throwing a ball around the park or taking long walks on the beach. One of the easiest and most effective ways to mentally stimulate your dog—especially when you’re short on time—is using a Kong toy. If you’ve never tried stuffing a Kong before, or if your dog has started to lose interest in the usual peanut butter trick, this post is for you. We’re diving into five nutritious, fun, and easy-to-make Kong recipes that will keep your dog entertained and satisfied.

We’ve tested these with the pups we work with at Paws Academy, and they’ve been consistently slobber-approved. Whether you’re training a pup who needs a little extra focus or just want to add variety to your dog’s day, a good Kong recipe goes a long way.

1. The Classic Mash-Up: Banana and Peanut Butter

Let’s kick off with a classic. Bananas are rich in potassium and fibre, and most dogs love their sweet taste. Pair this with peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free of course), and you’ve got a treat that’s both filling and rewarding.

Mash one ripe banana with a heaped spoonful of peanut butter. Mix until smooth, then spoon it into the Kong. For added challenge, freeze it for a few hours. Perfect for hot days or crate time.

This combo is ideal for dogs who are just being introduced to Kong toys. It’s simple, safe, and universally liked.

2. The Sunday Roast-Inspired Kong

We all love a Sunday roast, and now your dog can too. This recipe uses leftovers (as long as they’re safe for dogs—no onions or heavy seasoning) to make an engaging, wholesome filler.

Take some plain shredded chicken or turkey, mashed peas, and a few spoonfuls of cooked carrot. You can add a small amount of mashed potato to hold it all together. Stuff the mixture into the Kong and serve immediately or freeze it for a tougher challenge.

This recipe is excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as the ingredients are gentle yet hearty.

3. Greek Yoghurt and Berry Kong Delight

Packed with antioxidants and probiotics, this recipe supports digestion and adds a tangy twist to your dog’s Kong experience. Choose plain Greek yoghurt (no added sugars or artificial sweeteners) and mix it with a small handful of mashed blueberries or strawberries.

If you want to level up the nutritional punch, mix in a spoon of ground flaxseed or chia. Spoon into the Kong, pop it in the freezer, and you’ve got a healthy frozen treat that works as a mid-afternoon boredom buster.

This one is especially good for dogs with busy minds who need a challenge that lasts longer than a quick chew.

4. Tuna and Sweet Potato Kong Bowl

This savoury option is a hit with dogs who love strong flavours. Mix flaked tuna (in spring water, drained) with mashed sweet potato and a dash of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties.

This recipe is ideal for older dogs or those in training, as the high-protein content supports muscle maintenance and the sweet potato is a great source of slow-release energy. Fill the Kong and chill it if you want it to last longer.

Note: A little tuna goes a long way, so don’t overdo it—once or twice a week is plenty.

5. The Full Irish (Dog-Friendly Edition)

This one’s for the dogs who think breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Combine scrambled egg (cooked with no oil or milk), some finely chopped cooked spinach, and a bit of plain porridge. Porridge can be a handy ingredient in Kong recipes, especially for dogs who need a bit of extra fuel. When served plain and cooked with water (never milk), oats are gentle on the stomach and full of slow-releasing energy. They also add a soft, binding texture that helps hold other ingredients together inside the Kong. Just make sure you’re using plain rolled or steel-cut oats — avoid any flavoured or instant versions, as these often contain added sugars or sweeteners that aren’t safe for dogs. As with all new foods, introduce it gradually and always let it cool before serving.

Additional information on eggs: Eggs are a brilliant addition to Kong recipes thanks to their high-quality protein and rich nutrient profile. Scrambled or boiled eggs (cooked without oil, salt, or milk) are safe for dogs and can be especially useful for active pups or those in training. They’re easy to digest and support healthy muscles, skin, and coat. Stick to cooking them thoroughly—raw eggs carry a small risk of salmonella and may interfere with nutrient absorption over time. One or two eggs per week is more than enough for most dogs, depending on their size and overall diet.

Stuff into the Kong and let your dog enjoy their own breakfast moment. This recipe is rich in protein, iron, and fibre—ideal for active dogs or those going through intensive training.

The texture is a bit softer, so if your dog is a fast eater, freezing this one is a great way to slow things down.

Why Rotate Your Kong Fillings?

Think of Kong stuffing the same way you think about your own meals. Variety prevents boredom and offers a more balanced intake of nutrients. Regularly changing the flavours, textures, and smells keeps your dog interested and helps prevent them from abandoning the toy after a few licks.

Also, Kong stuffing is a great way to manage your dog’s calorie intake. Instead of feeding an entire treat in one go, spreading it out over a longer period of licking and chewing turns it into a satisfying activity.

Tips for Kong Success

• Start simple and work your way up. If your dog is new to Kongs, begin with soft fillings that are easy to get out.

• Use a mix of textures. Soft and firm ingredients together make it more engaging.

• Try freezing. This not only makes the Kong last longer but also provides soothing relief for teething puppies or anxious dogs.

• Adjust for diet. If your dog is on a specific diet or has allergies, there are always alternatives. Just ask your vet or a qualified dog nutritionist for guidance.

Make It Part of Your Training Plan

At Paws Academy, we regularly incorporate Kong-based enrichment into our training routines. It can help reduce separation-related issues, build focus during crate training, and serve as a powerful reward when teaching new behaviours.

Dogs thrive on mental stimulation. It’s just as important as physical exercise. Kong toys filled with the right ingredients offer a straightforward way to tap into this need. And because they require licking, chewing, and problem-solving, they’re a brilliant natural de-stressor.

Ready to Take Your Dog’s Enrichment to the Next Level?

Whether you’re looking to manage unwanted behaviours, support a rescue dog’s adjustment, or just want the most balanced lifestyle for your pup, we’re here to help. At Paws Academy, we offer in-person dog training in Ireland, as well as virtual consultations worldwide—so no matter where you are, support is just a click away.

Let’s build a better life for your dog, one Kong at a time.

Reach out to us today and discover how we can help you and your dog thrive.