Summertime in North Alabama means barbecues, fresh produce, family gatherings, and lots of tempting treats. As dog owners, it is only natural to want to share some of that summertime goodness with our four-legged friends. But not all summer snacks are safe for dogs, and some can be dangerous.
Before you toss your pup a bite of that burger or fruit salad, let’s explore which summer foods are dog-friendly and which should be kept off the menu.
Safe Summer Foods for Dogs
There are plenty of summer favorites that dogs can safely enjoy in moderation. These foods can even provide hydration, enrichment, and nutritional benefits.
Dog-safe foods include:
Watermelon (seedless and rind removed)
A summertime favorite that is low in calories and high in moisture. It is great for hydration on hot days.
Blueberries
Packed with antioxidants and safe for most dogs, these make a perfect bite-sized treat or frozen snack.
Cucumbers
Low in calories and full of water, cucumbers are a crisp, healthy treat for dogs trying to maintain a healthy weight.
Apples (cored and seeds removed)
Apples offer fiber and vitamin C, just be sure to remove seeds and core before sharing.
Plain grilled chicken
Lean protein like unseasoned grilled chicken is ideal for dogs, especially when cut into training-sized portions.
Carrots
Crunchy and full of nutrients, carrots are excellent for dogs’ teeth and digestion.
For more ideas on dog-safe produce, visit the AKC’s complete guide to fruits and vegetables dogs can and cannot eat.
Dangerous Summer Foods to Avoid
Some summer staples might seem harmless but can cause serious health issues for dogs. Avoid feeding these common summer foods:
Grapes and raisins
Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs. Never give your dog grapes, raisins, or foods containing them.
Onions and garlic
Found in many grilled dishes and seasonings, both are toxic to dogs and can damage red blood cells.
Corn on the cob
While corn itself is not harmful, the cob can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage if swallowed.
Chocolate desserts
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can lead to vomiting, tremors, and even seizures.
Alcohol and sugary drinks
Never let your dog consume beer, wine, soda, or sweetened beverages. These can lead to rapid intoxication, liver failure, or other serious problems.
Cooked bones
Cooked bones can splinter easily and injure your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
Fatty scraps or BBQ trimmings
Rich, greasy leftovers can lead to upset stomach or even pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.
Tips for Sharing Treats the Safe Way
Including your dog in your summer plans can be fun, but safety should come first. Here are some quick tips to follow:
- Always supervise treat time
- Avoid seasoning, spices, and sauces
- Cut treats into small, manageable pieces
- Use treats as part of your training routine
- Offer fresh, cool water throughout the day
Using healthy summer snacks as rewards can be a great way to reinforce good behavior. If your dog gets overexcited around food or guests, our Basic Obedience Training for Reactive Dogs can help them stay calm and focused in high-stimulation environments.
Training and Boundaries Around Food
Teaching your dog boundaries around food is just as important as knowing which foods are safe. Dogs that counter-surf, beg, or steal from plates can put themselves at risk during summer gatherings. Training them to respect boundaries, stay in a designated place during meals, and respond to commands like “leave it” is essential.
If your dog struggles with these behaviors, check out our guide on how to handle excitement and barking when guests arrive. These same principles apply during backyard events and cookouts.
Final Thoughts
Summer treats can be a fun way to bond with your dog, as long as you know what is safe and what is not. When in doubt, stick to plain, unseasoned fruits and vegetables or vet-approved dog snacks. Combine safe treats with consistent training, and your dog will be a well-mannered guest at every summer event.
Keep your dog safe and well-behaved this summer. Contact us today to learn how we can help with obedience training and food manners that last beyond the season.