Summer has arrived, temperatures are soaring, and a universal craving sets in: that of enjoying a good ice cream. But as we indulge in this refreshing treat, a question often arises for humans who share their lives with a dog: can their canine companion enjoy it too? We consulted with our veterinary doctor, an expert in animal nutrition.
A good dog-friendly ice cream: much more than a treat
An ice cream adapted for dogs is much more than a snack:
- A source of hydration: particularly useful in summer or for older dogs or those not inclined to drink.
- A means of thermal regulation: in the absence of sweat glands, dogs cool down by panting. Ice cream helps lower their internal temperature.
- A relaxation tool: licking stimulates the production of endorphins (feel-good hormones), which helps to calm stress and anxiety.
- An appetite stimulant: its freshness and texture can make a tired or stressed dog want to eat again.
Like licking mats or interactive toys, ice cream becomes a small daily ritual of care and shared pleasure.
Why avoid "human" ice cream?
It can be tempting to share a spoonful of vanilla ice cream with your dog... but it's rarely a good idea.
Ice cream intended for humans often contains:
- Lactose: the majority of adult dogs are lactose intolerant, which can cause digestive problems: diarrhea, bloating, vomiting.
- Added sugars and sweeteners: xylitol, very present in "sugar-free" products, is highly toxic to dogs, even in small quantities. It can lead to severe hypoglycemia, seizures, and even a coma.
- Dangerous or toxic ingredients: chocolate, coffee, raisins, macadamia nuts, alcohol... all foods forbidden to dogs, often found in artisanal ice cream or as toppings.
- Saturated fats: in high doses, they can promote obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and especially trigger pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas that can be fatal.
Even if a small amount may seem harmless, the risks are real — and often underestimated.
It is therefore better to reserve "human" ice cream for humans, and offer your dog an alternative designed for their health.
Delamour Ice Cream: pleasure and well-being combined
At Delamour, we wanted to create much more than a canine dessert. We envisioned The Ice Cream as a well-being formula, developed with Dr. Éric Charles, a veterinary expert in animal nutrition renowned for his 40 years of experience.
A gentle, healthy, and gourmet base
Each recipe for The Ice Cream is based on a short and simple base:
- Skimmed and lactose-free milk, digestible and naturally rich in calcium
- Organic coconut oil, a source of beneficial fatty acids
- A natural chicken flavor from plant sources, allergen-free
- A hint of organic agave syrup, a natural sweetener with a low glycemic index
Carefully selected functional ingredients
We have added active ingredients to this base known for their beneficial effects
on the digestive and immune health of dogs:
- Prebiotics (inulin, vegetable fibers) to nourish the good bacteria in the gut
- Postbiotics and cell wall extracts to strengthen intestinal immunity
- Probiotics to support the balance of digestive flora
- Highly digestible proteins for energy and muscle tone
- Natural super-ingredients such as spirulina, raspberries or vitamin B9 depending on the recipes
Four recipes for four moments of pleasure
Each Delamour Ice Cream reference is designed to offer a moment that is both delicious and functional. Whether it's to help an anxious dog relax, to refresh an elderly animal in hot weather, or simply to share a moment of complicity, The Ice Cream becomes a true ritual of care and love.
