With BBQ season around the corner, now is a perfect time to start prepping a menu that you, and your dog, can enjoy this summer so they can take part in the delicious festivities, too!
While some common BBQ foods can be harmful or even toxic for pups to consume, there are still plenty of dog-safe options that can let them share in the fun without the risk.
Before we get into the food options, it’s important to remember the following dog-safety basics:
- Prior to introducing your dog to new foods, consult with your veterinarian to get the green light and determine appropriate serving sizes
- Start with small portions and serve in moderation to gauge how your pup responds
- Steer clear of serving any food with seasonings, including garlic and onions (including raw, cooked, or in powder form)
- Consider adjusting your dog’s meal quantity if they’ve indulged in an extra BBQ treat to help maintain a balanced diet
READ MORE: Foods to avoid sharing with your dog this season
Curious about a particular food? Click on any item below to jump straight to it!
Now, let’s power up the grill with dog-approved options that will have your pup’s tail wagging!
BURGER PATTIES
If you’re serving up burgers for your guests, set aside a patty for your pup. It’s a protein-rich snack that they can enjoy (and it will keep them occupied while you and your family or guests prep yours).
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Serve the burger patty without a bun, seasoning, or condiments
- Drain any excess fat to make it leaner if that is a dietary concern
- Since burger patties can vary in size, it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces to make eating them easier and to help prevent choking
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- Protein
- B vitamins
- Minerals like iron, zinc, and phosphorus
- Fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6
Looking to jazz up their patty with some burger toppings? A crisp piece of lettuce and/or a small slice of cheese can be dog-safe options.
GRILLED CHICKEN
Grilled chicken can be a healthy dinner option during BBQ season, but is it safe for your dog to consume? In most cases, yes! Chicken can be a great, nutritionally beneficial food for dogs.
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Skip the seasonings and sauces
- Remove the skin and bones
- Cook thoroughly
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- Vitamins B6 & B3
- Zinc
- Protein
- Iron
GRILLED VEGGIES
Vegetables can be a delicious main or side, especially in the summer when you can add them to the grill. Some veggies are more commonly grilled than others, such as bell peppers, corn, zucchini, and eggplant, all of which are safe for dogs to eat!
Considerations to keep in mind:
- If grilling corn on the cob, only serve the kernels since the cob can be a choking hazard
- If grilling bell peppers, remove the seeds and stem
- Skip any extra oil, salt, or marinades
- Vegetables can be hot off the grill—be sure to let veggies cool and slice them into small pieces before serving to your dog
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- Vitamins A, C, E, and B6
- Antioxidants
- Fiber
GRILLED FISH
Returning from a summer fishing trip and ready to grill up your fresh catch? Most fish can be safely shared with your pup.
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Cook without seasonings, additional oils, sauces, and lemon juice (which can cause an upset stomach due to high acidity levels)
- Remove all bones
- Avoid serving dogs fish high in mercury, such as mackerel, tuna, and swordfish
- Cook thoroughly, including the skin
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- Iron
- Vitamin D
- Protein
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Minerals like magnesium, potassium, zinc, iodine, etc.
FRUIT SALAD
Seasonal fruit can be a delicious addition to a summer BBQ. Here are some dog-safe fruit options you can add to their bowl:
- Watermelon
- Blueberries
- Apples
- Strawberries
- Mango
- Pineapple
- Cantaloupe
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Peaches
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Always cut fruit into small pieces and remove the rind, core, and seeds
- Fruit can be high in sugar, so consider it an occasional treat
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- Several types of fruit are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C
- Fiber
- Antioxidants
- Minerals
TIP: Try freezing their favorite fruit for a refreshing treat on hot summer days. Click here for more frozen dog treat ideas for the summer.
POTATOES
Adding potatoes to the grill? White and sweet potatoes are both safe, tasty options to serve your dog. Although a side of potato salad with mayo and other ingredients is off-limits, a plain potato can be shared with your dog. Sweet potatoes are a healthier, nutrient-rich option.
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Avoid adding butter, oils, and seasonings
- Remove potato skins before serving, as they can be difficult to digest
- Ensure they are fully cooked, since raw potatoes contain a compound called solanine that can be toxic to dogs
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- Fiber
- Iron
- Vitamins, including B6, and C
- Sweet potatoes are full of beta-carotene
PLATTER OF RAW VEGGIES
A veggie platter is always a go-to at a gathering and is usually a safe food option at your next BBQ. Here are the dog-safe vegetables dogs can eat raw that you might find on a platter:
- Broccoli
- Celery
- Carrots
- Cucumber
- Snap peas
- Cauliflower
Considerations to keep in mind:
- Cut unseasoned veggies into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking
- Never serve your dog a dip, which often comes with platters you purchase from the store
Nutritional benefits include (but are not limited to):
- A source of vitamins, including A, B, C, and E
- Fiber
- Antioxidants
READ MORE: Dog-Friendly Fruits and Vegetables
DOG SAFETY TIPS BEFORE YOUR NEXT BBQ
When planning your next barbecue, it’s important to make sure your pup is safe and happy in their environment, in addition to making safe food choices. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Create shaded areas where they can go when they need to cool down
- Provide water, and maintain a fresh bowl to avoid the water heating up under the sun
- Supervise them closely if they are near the grill
- Check for signs of overheating, which can start with panting and drooling
- Make a request for your guests to avoid feeding your pup scraps from their meal, which can include potentially harmful ingredients
- Secure all garbage bins and clean up plates promptly to avoid tempting your dog with easy-to-reach leftovers
READ MORE: Summer Heat Safety for Dogs
Planning your next summer get-together and prefer to have a dog-free space? Contact your local Dogtopia! Dog daycare can be a safe, fun-filled option to avoid having your pup near unsafe food and large groups of people. Plus, our indoor playrooms are temperature-controlled, so playtime is always comfortable no matter the weather outside. If you think your event might go late, consider overnight boarding options to give your dog a staycation they’ll love with their furry friends.
This blog was reviewed/edited by Dogtopia’s Director of Health & Safety Lorraine Rhoads, an experienced animal biologist and environmental scientist.
