Cookout season brings grills, picnic tables and plenty of food within reach of a hopeful nose. Many barbecue staples are not good for dogs, and some can cause serious problems. Knowing which foods to keep away from your dog, and setting a few simple rules for guests, can prevent an emergency vet visit.
Foods That Can Be Toxic
Some common cookout ingredients are toxic to dogs. These include:
- Onions, garlic, chives and leeks, whether raw, cooked or powdered in seasonings and marinades
- Grapes and raisins, sometimes found in salads and desserts
- Chocolate in desserts and baked goods
- Foods and drinks sweetened with xylitol, including some sugar-free desserts, candies and gums
- Alcohol, including beer and mixed drinks left within reach
- Macadamia nuts
Signs of toxicity vary but can include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors and more. If you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control service right away.
Foods That Cause Other Problems
Some foods are not toxic but can still be dangerous.
- Corn cobs can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
- Cooked bones, including rib and chicken bones, can splinter and injure the mouth, throat or digestive tract.
- Skewers and toothpicks can be swallowed along with food scraps.
- Fatty foods, such as burgers, sausages, fatty trimmings and grease, can upset the stomach and may contribute to pancreatitis, a painful condition that needs veterinary care.
- Very salty snacks like chips can cause digestive upset.
Setting Up a Dog-Safe Cookout
The easiest way to protect your dog is to manage the environment.
- Keep food on tables away from edges and out of reach.
- Use lidded trash cans and take full bags out promptly.
- Assign someone to supervise the dog, or keep the dog in a quiet room during the meal.
- Ask guests not to feed your dog. A friendly sign or a quick mention helps.
- Watch for kids sharing food with the dog.
- Keep your dog away from the grill and hot coals.
Dog-Friendly Treats
Your dog can still enjoy the cookout with safe treats. Have their regular treats on hand, or a special chew they enjoy. If you want to share some plain foods, check with your veterinarian first about what is appropriate and how much. Plain, unseasoned options are generally safer than anything with sauces, marinades or seasoning blends.
Frozen treats made for dogs or dog-safe ice cubes can be a nice way to help your dog cool off on a warm afternoon.
Know Where to Get Help
Before a party, keep your veterinarian’s phone number and the location of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic handy, along with an animal poison control number. Holidays and weekends can mean limited hours at regular clinics.
A little planning lets your dog join the fun without the risk. Most dogs are perfectly happy with a cool spot in the shade, a safe chew and the company of their family.
