BBQ Safety: Dog-Approved Foods for Summer Fun
How to Keep Your Pup Happy and Healthy During Backyard Cookouts 

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, invite friends over, and enjoy the sunshine with your family, including the four-legged kind. Dogs are often part of the festivities, but not everything on your BBQ menu is safe for them. As tempting as it is to sneak your pup a bite under the table, it’s important to know what’s okay to share and what could lead to a trip to the emergency vet. 

In this blog, we’ll break down the best dog-friendly BBQ foods, which ones to avoid, and a few simple ways to make sure your dog stays safe, cool, and included in the summer fun. 

Why BBQ Safety Matters for Dogs 

Barbecues are full of enticing smells, loud noises, and delicious food—all of which can spell trouble for your pup. From bones and fatty meats to onions and alcohol, many BBQ staples can be harmful or even toxic to dogs. Add hot grills, open flames, and crowded backyards, and suddenly your dog’s favorite day can become dangerous. 

Planning ahead can help you avoid accidents and ensure that your dog enjoys the party just as much as you do. 

Dog-Approved BBQ Foods 

If you want to treat your pup during your next cookout, here are some dog-safe foods that can be served in moderation. Just make sure everything is plain, with no added spices, marinades, or sauces. 

Grilled Chicken or Turkey (Boneless and Skinless)
Lean, cooked poultry is a great source of protein for dogs. Be sure it’s fully cooked, unseasoned, and free of bones. 

Plain Hamburger Patties
A small piece of well-cooked ground beef can be a safe and satisfying treat. Avoid adding cheese, onions, or condiments. 

Watermelon (Seedless)
Sweet, hydrating, and safe in small amounts. Be sure to remove seeds and never give your dog the rind. 

Green Beans and Carrot Sticks
Crunchy and low in calories, these veggies make excellent healthy snacks. Serve them raw or lightly steamed with no seasoning. 

Sweet Potatoes (Grilled or Boiled)
Rich in fiber and vitamins, plain sweet potatoes are a tasty and nutritious option. Avoid adding butter, salt, or brown sugar. 

Apple Slices (No Seeds)
A few fresh apple slices can help clean your dog’s teeth and provide a sweet treat. Just be sure to remove the core and seeds, which contain cyanide. 

Foods You Should Never Feed Your Dog at a BBQ 

While it’s fun to include your pup in summer celebrations, there are several foods that should always be off-limits. 

Cooked Bones
They may seem like a natural treat, but cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, digestive blockages, or tears in your dog’s intestines. 

Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Alliums are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health issues, including anemia. Avoid feeding any food that may be seasoned with these ingredients. 

Corn on the Cob
While plain corn kernels are generally safe, the cob poses a major choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages. 

Fatty Meats and Scraps
Greasy cuts of meat or leftover fat trimmings can cause stomach upset and even lead to pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition. 

Chocolate, Grapes, and Raisins
These are common in desserts and fruit salads but are highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to kidney failure or other critical issues. 

Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks
Never let your dog have access to beer, wine, cocktails, coffee, or soda. These beverages can lead to vomiting, disorientation, and even death. 

Easy Ways to Include Your Dog at a BBQ 

Want your pup to feel like part of the party without risking their health? Try these simple ideas. 

Make a Dog-Only Plate
Prepare a plate of dog-approved foods before the guests arrive. You can grill some plain chicken, add a few slices of watermelon, and toss in some veggies. This helps prevent guests from feeding your dog something unsafe. 

Set Up a Shaded Chill Spot
Create a cozy corner with shade, water, and a cooling mat so your dog can relax away from the crowd. Bonus points for bringing their favorite toy or bed. 

Provide Fresh Water Everywhere
Place water bowls throughout the yard or patio, especially near food and seating areas. Dehydration happens quickly in hot weather. 

Keep Trash Out of Reach
Dogs are notorious for raiding trash cans. Use bins with secure lids and keep them away from your dog’s reach. 

Supervise Your Dog Around the Grill
Grills are dangerous. Hot surfaces, skewers, and dropped food make the cooking area a risky place for pups. Keep your dog leashed or blocked off from the cooking zone. 

Train the “Leave It” Command
This command is a lifesaver during events like BBQs. If your dog goes for something unsafe, “leave it” can stop them before they get into trouble. 

Hosting a Dog-Friendly BBQ? Try These Extras 

If your guests are bringing their dogs too, consider taking it a step further: 

– Freeze dog treats in ice cube trays with water or broth for a cool snack 

– Create a DIY splash zone with kiddie pools or sprinklers 

– Have a dog treat bar with biscuits, frozen bones, or branded goodies 

– Organize a dog costume contest or photo booth for fun and social content 

These extra touches show you’re a thoughtful host—and will earn you tail wags all around. 

Final Thoughts: Make BBQs Safe and Fun for Everyone 

With a little planning and a watchful eye, your next summer BBQ can be safe and enjoyable for your dog. Stick to dog-approved foods, avoid common hazards, and make sure your pup stays cool, hydrated, and included. 

At PUPS Pet Club, we believe pets are family. That means celebrating the good times with them and protecting them from harm – especially when hot grills and tempting plates are involved. Follow us on social media and remember… Summer fun is better when everyone can join in—paws included.