12 Summer Foods That Are (and Aren’t) Safe for Dogs

What’s on Your Dog’s Plate This Summer?

Backyard BBQs, pool parties, and picnics are some of the best parts of summer in West Virginia. But while you’re enjoying grilled burgers, fresh fruits, and frozen treats, your dog may be eyeing the snacks with hopeful eyes and a wagging tail.

While it’s tempting to share your plate, not all summer foods are created equal when it comes to canine safety. Some are harmless or even healthy, while others can cause serious digestive distress or toxic reactions. So before you give in to that begging face, make sure you know what’s truly safe for your furry best friend.

Dog-Safe Summer Foods

Plenty of common summer foods can be both tasty and healthy for dogs when served appropriately.

Lean Grilled Meats (Plain)
Plain grilled chicken, turkey, or beef without seasoning or sauce can be a great protein boost.

Watermelon (No Seeds or Rind)
Packed with hydration and vitamins, watermelon is a refreshing treat as long as you remove the seeds and rind.

Blueberries and Strawberries
Full of antioxidants and low in calories, these berries are bite-sized powerhouses for your pup.

Leafy Greens (Unseasoned)
Spinach, kale, and lettuce offer fiber and nutrients, but serve in moderation to avoid tummy trouble.

Baby Carrots and Green Beans
Crunchy, low-calorie, and great for dental health. Serve raw or lightly steamed.

Sweet Potatoes (Plain, Cooked)
A fantastic source of fiber and beta-carotene. Just skip the butter and marshmallows.

Summer Foods to Avoid at All Costs

Some BBQ staples and picnic treats can be toxic or extremely harmful to dogs, even in small amounts.

Grapes and Raisins
Even a few can cause kidney failure in dogs. Never offer these.

Chocolate and Desserts
Chocolate, xylitol (often found in sugar-free gum and desserts), and too much sugar are all major red flags.

Hot Dogs and Sausages
Highly processed and loaded with salt, preservatives, and spices that can upset your dog’s stomach.

Bread and Buns with Yeast Dough
Unbaked yeast dough can expand in your dog’s stomach and cause dangerous bloating or alcohol poisoning.

Onions and Garlic (Raw or Cooked)
Toxic to dogs and can lead to anemia. Watch out for dishes like potato salad, dips, and marinades.

Salty, Fried, or Fatty Foods
French fries, chips, and fatty cuts of meat can trigger pancreatitis or digestive issues.

What If My Dog Eats Something Dangerous?

If your dog accidentally ingests something harmful, don’t wait. Contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Time is critical, especially with toxins like xylitol, chocolate, or grapes.

Keep BBQs Dog-Safe with Training

The best way to protect your dog around food-filled events is through training.

Impulse control, place commands, and off-leash reliability are all essential for preventing food-snatching, begging, or counter surfing. Our Basic Obedience Training for Reactive Dogs is a great place to start if your pup tends to lose focus when distractions and delicious smells are in the air.

Pair that with indoor calmness training like what we cover in our post on how to improve your dog’s behavior at home, and your dog will be better equipped to behave politely no matter what’s on the grill.

Healthy Summer Treat Ideas

Need some ideas that are safe and dog-approved? Try these DIY treats:

Frozen yogurt bites with banana and peanut butter (make sure the yogurt is xylitol-free)
Fruit and veggie ice cubes made with low-sodium broth and chopped produce
KONGs stuffed with pureed pumpkin and frozen for long-lasting fun

Final Thoughts

Summer is a time for connection, fun, and food. When it comes to your dog, safety should come first. By understanding what’s safe and what’s not, you can make better choices that keep your pup healthy, happy, and part of the party.

Need help teaching your dog better food manners or impulse control? That’s where we come in.