Written By: Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva, VMD, cVMA | Professional Services Veterinarian, Wild Earth

Summer is here, which means it’s time for weekends spent by the BBQ filled with mouthwatering aromas and delectable treats. As a dog owner, you want to include your furry friend in the festivities and make sure they can enjoy some special snacks too. While there are many foods you should avoid feeding your dog, there are plenty of BBQ fan favorites that are safe and delicious for dogs to enjoy alongside their human companions. In this article, I will explore a selection of dog-friendly snacks that you can share with your fur baby as well as some foods to avoid this BBQ season.

Foods You Can Share With Your Dog During BBQ Season

1. Fruit: Fresh fruits are not only refreshing for humans, but they can also be a delightful snack for dogs. Create fruit kabobs using dog-friendly fruits such as watermelon, apple slices, strawberries, and blueberries. These fruits are safe and provide vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Remember to remove any seeds or pits and cut the fruits into appropriate sizes for your dog. Check out this article that outlines fruits that are safe for your dog (and ones to avoid)
   
2. Vegetable Medley: A colorful vegetable medley can be a healthy and low-calorie snack for your dog. Grill or lightly steam vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Avoid using any seasonings, spices, or oils. Allow the vegetables to cool before serving. Not only will your dog enjoy the different textures and flavors, but they will also benefit from the added fiber and nutrients. Check out this article that outlines veggies that are safe for your dog (and ones to avoid)
   
3. Frozen Treats: On a warm BBQ day, nothing beats a cool and refreshing frozen treat. Create homemade frozen delights for your dog using dog-friendly ingredients. You can take fruits like bananas and strawberries blend with water and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays or molds. These icy treats will provide a welcome relief from the summer heat. Follow us on facebook or instagram for great summer treat tips.
   
4. Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and tasty snack for dogs. Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips to resemble fries and bake them in the oven until crispy. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy alternative.

As barbecue season arrives, it's essential to be mindful of the foods that dogs should avoid to ensure their safety and well-being. While we may enjoy indulging in various grilled delights, certain foods can be harmful or toxic to dogs.

Foods To Avoid During BBQ Season

1. Corn on the Cob: While corn itself is not toxic to dogs, the cob can be a choking hazard and cause intestinal blockage. Dogs should not be allowed to chew on or consume corn cobs.
   
2. Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe kidney damage. Keep them away from your dog, as even a small amount can be dangerous.
   
3. Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine, should never be given to dogs. Alcohol can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can have serious effects on a dog's central nervous system, leading to difficulty breathing, abnormal blood acidity, coma, or even death.
   
4. Desserts and Sweets: Many desserts and sweets, such as chocolate, candies, and cakes, are harmful to dogs. Chocolate, in particular, contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can lead to various health issues. Keep all sweet treats out of your dog's reach.

Summer and BBQ season are the perfect time to soak up the sun and enjoy delicious outdoor gatherings with family and friends (dogs included). Remember, it's crucial to prioritize your dog's health and safety by making sure to only share safe foods. If you're unsure about the safety of any food, it's best to consult your veterinarian before offering it to your dog.