Summer cookouts, picnics, and backyard BBQs are a treat for humans, but what about our dogs? With so much food around, it’s tempting to slip your pup a bite of burger or ice cream. But not all summer foods are safe for canine consumption, and some can actually be dangerous.

In this blog, we’re breaking down which summer favorites are dog-friendly and which ones should be off-limits, so you can enjoy the season without a vet visit.

Safe Summer Foods for Dogs (In Moderation)

Many fresh summer ingredients can be healthy, hydrating, and delicious for dogs when offered responsibly.

Dog-safe treats include:

Watermelon (seedless, no rind)
Blueberries and strawberries
Cucumbers
Carrots
Apples (no seeds)
Green beans
Plain, cooked meats (like grilled chicken or lean beef, no seasoning)
Frozen plain yogurt (unsweetened, lactose-tolerant dogs only)

Tip: Freeze pieces of watermelon or cucumber for a hydrating, cooling snack.

Summer Foods to Avoid for Dogs

Some of your favorite BBQ staples and party snacks can cause stomach upset, toxicity, or worse.

Avoid giving your dog these foods:

Corn on the cob (choking hazard)
Hot dogs (too processed, high sodium)
Grapes and raisins (toxic to dogs)
Onions and garlic (even in seasoning)
Chocolate or desserts (especially with xylitol)
Alcohol or caffeinated beverages
Chips and dips (greasy, salty, and often toxic ingredients)
Ice cream (dairy intolerance and added sugars)

Even small amounts of these foods can cause problems, especially in small dogs.

Backyard Training Tip: Use Food as a Reward

If your dog is calm around food during gatherings or avoids begging under the table, give them a reward. Practicing impulse control around distractions is a key part of successful obedience.

Learn how to reinforce those behaviors with our Basic Obedience Training for Reactive Dogs. It is especially helpful for dogs who get overly excited during mealtimes or social events.

Practice Food Manners at Home

Want to prepare your pup for real-world situations like BBQs and picnics? The best training starts at home. Our post on how to handle setbacks in dog training without losing momentum offers practical tips for staying consistent, even when distractions like food or guests challenge your dog’s behavior. Use it as a guide to reinforce impulse control and table manners in a low-pressure environment.

External Resource: ASPCA’s Toxic Food List

For a comprehensive and vet-backed reference, consult the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic foods for pets. It’s always good to double-check if you’re unsure.

Final Thoughts

Sharing summer with your dog is one of life’s simple joys. But keeping them safe means knowing which foods are okay and which ones could cause harm. With a little planning and training, your pup can enjoy the season right alongside you.

Need help teaching your dog better food manners around people or distractions? Contact Off Leash K9 Training Delaware to get started today.