BBQ Foods Dogs Can and Can't Eat - Chicken, Chips & More | Pupford

Kids/students are getting out of school and the weather is warming up (and in some places it is HOT 🥵). That means more time outside with friends and family, finding ways to escape the heat, and getting back together for gatherings (that you haven't been able to have for a while)! One thing that always screams summer is BBQs. Hamburgers, hot dogs (maybe your favorite meat alternative), all the different salads - fruit, pasta, and cobb, chips, rolls, desserts, and so much more.

But if you bring your dog along (cause who doesn't want their pup to be able to join in on the fun) there are some things you should know to keep your dog safe at a BBQ. In this article we will specifically be talking about FOOD, but when it comes to weather there are also a lot of things to consider to keep your pup safe in hotter temps. Head here to learn about how to keep dogs cool! But now back to the article...

Today we will be talking about what foods your dog can and can't eat at a BBQ or picnic. But first, a disclaimer:

Remember, even with the “yes” foods, it is always important to check on your pup after trying new foods. This is especially true for puppies as their stomachs and growing bodies are often extra sensitive. It is always important to practice moderation when giving your dog anything!

Another note for you dog parents, remember the 10% rule. Treats and snacks shouldn’t make up any more than 10 percent of your dog’s caloric intake.

🐶 Need help with training your pup for BBQs & get-togethers? Sign up for the 100% free online course 30 Day Perfect Pup. Get started here! 🐶

BBQ FOODS DOGS CAN AND CAN'T EAT

Alcohol - no
Apples - yes
Bananas - yes
Blueberries - yes
Butter - no
Corn on the cob - no
Chocolate - no
Garlic - no
Grilled chicken - yes (no seasoning)
Grapes - no
Hamburger patty - yes (no seasoning)
Hot dog - yes/no
Ice cream - no
Onions - no
Pasta noodles - yes (plain)
Pasta salad - no
Popsicles - no
Potatoes - yes (plain)
Raspberries - yes (in moderation)
Rolls - yes (plain)
Seasoning/Spices - no
Strawberries - yes (in moderation)
Sweet potatoes - yes (plain)
Watermelon - yes (no seeds or rind)
Zucchini - yes (plain)

FRUIT/FRUIT SALAD

When I think of fruit at a BBQ, I think of it generally in the form of a fruit salad. That can include any sort of combination of fruit your heart desires. So while this isn't an all extensive list of fruits that are safe for your dog, this post on 39 Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can and Can't Eat, goes into much more detail on different fruits that are safe and not safe for your dog.

Some common ones, like strawberries and raspberries are safe in moderation. Apples are good for dogs, as are bananas. Watermelon is also a great option (as long as the seeds and rind are out).

But please stay away from GRAPES. This is an extra caution, as they are extremely dangerous for pups. Grapes are extremely toxic to dogs. This also includes raisins. If your dog eats any grapes, call your vet.

Some other fruits, like nectarines and mango are fine, as long as the pit has been discarded.

MEATS, INCLUDING CHICKEN

While meats like hamburger patties & chicken are okay for dogs, many times they are cooked with seasonings, spices, garlic, and onions, which ARE NOT. So, if you want to give your pup a taste of grilled chicken, please make sure that they are cooked plain. And if you aren't sure, err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to your pup altogether.

When it comes to hot dogs, it gets a little trickier. Because so many contain added ingredients, that often aren't healthy for dogs (like sodium and other additives), so if you're going to be feeding your dog hot dogs, be careful and use sparingly - and make sure it is free of toppings, like onions and relishes with garlic.

But like all things, moderation is key!

🐶 Need help with training your pup for BBQs & get-togethers? Sign up for the 100% free online course 30 Day Perfect Pup. Get started here! 🐶

SALADS

Fruit salads, cobb salads, pasta salads, and more. Many things can be turned into a salad of some kind. And while some of the ingredients in the salads might be okay for your dog, like plain pasta noodles, carrots, lettuce, and more, often, these sides are covered in seasonings, mayonaisse, and/or another dressing. So maybe you're catching the theme here, that erring on the side of caution is always the way to go.

GRILLED VEGGIES

I think veggies just taste better on the grill. Corn, zucchini, asparagus, peppers, you name it! But dogs can't eat all of these, especially if they are loaded with seasonings and spices. When cooked plain, zucchini, potatoes, sweet potatoes, sweet peppers, and brussels sprouts are safe, but asparagus is not, and mushrooms and unripe tomatoes are also on the "no" list. When ripe, tomatoes are okay in moderation. For a more extensive list, click here.

Corn on the cob is also a NO as the cob can pose a big threat to your dog. If you are removing the cob, some corn kernels are okay, but make sure give it to your dog in moderation.

CAN DOGS EAT CHIPS?

An all extensive list of chips would probably make up an entire novel because there are so many different kinds of chips out there.

But, when speaking generally, it's best to jus

~Many~ chips contain a lot of salt, and too much salt can cause health issues for your dog. Some signs that your dog has had too much sodium include excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, and diarrhea.

SIDES/CONDIMENTS

We're talking about things like ketchup, mustard, mayo, jello, and bread/rolls.

Ketchup isn't great, but also isn't toxic. If your dog has a small amount, they will probably be okay, but remember that a lot of ketchup includes ingredients like sugar, garlic, salt, and onions, which you don't want your dog consuming.

Mustard, on the other hand, is one that you want to avoid. The danger in mustard is the mustard seed. It has compounds that are toxic and can lead to things like gastroenteritis.

Mayonnaise isn't toxic, but has a high-fat content and can cause problems if eaten in excess.

We'll keep the next one brief, just say no to jello.

Lastly, rolls and bread are okay for your dog when eaten plain. Okay, moving on.

🐶 Need help with training your pup for BBQs & get-togethers? Sign up for the 100% free online course 30 Day Perfect Pup. Get started here! 🐶

DESSERTS/DRINKS/ALCOHOL

You probably already knew that you should avoid feeding your dog chocolate. Chocolate contains caffeine and methylxanthines which can cause seizures, irregular heart function, and worse in large quantities. Even a small amount can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Related Reading: THC (Cannabis/Weed) & Dogs

Alcohol is also a big no. While we're at it... you can probably just avoid giving your dog any drink. Water is where it's at.

Popsicles and ice cream are also a no, but if you want your pup to be able to enjoy a nice refreshing treat alongside you, there are so many different pupsicle recipes that your dog can enjoy! Check out a few doggie popsicle recipes here.

OVERVIEW OF BBQ/PICNIC FOODS DOGS CAN AND CAN'T EAT

Before letting your dog chow down at your next BBQ, know what foods you can and can't safely give your dog, and know that moderation is key, and if you aren't sure, it's best just to say no. Bring some of your dog's own tasty chews and treats so they can enjoy some tasty treats right next to you.

And from us at Pupford, happy summer! Enjoy this time and stay safe!

🐶 Need help with training your pup for BBQs & get-togethers? Sign up for the 100% free online course 30 Day Perfect Pup. Get started here! 🐶