Summer is here, and with it comes backyard BBQs, fresh fruit stands, and all kinds of tasty treats. While you might be tempted to share your favorite seasonal snacks with your pup, not all human foods are dog-friendly. In fact, some summer staples can be dangerous or even deadly for dogs.
In this post, we’ll break down which summer foods are safe to share and which ones to keep off your dog’s plate. Plus, we’ll share training tips that help your dog resist temptation and stay well-behaved around food.
Safe Summer Treats for Dogs
Not all summer foods are off-limits. Some seasonal options are perfectly safe and even healthy for dogs when given in moderation.
Here’s a list of safe summer snacks your dog can enjoy:
- Watermelon (seedless): Low in calories and high in hydration
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants
- Carrots: Crunchy, sweet, and great for dental health
- Cucumbers: Refreshing and low in calories
- Apples (no seeds): Full of fiber and vitamin C
- Plain grilled chicken: Protein-rich and satisfying (just avoid seasoning)
Pro Tip: Freeze some dog-safe fruits in ice cubes for a cooling enrichment activity that keeps your pup busy and hydrated indoors. For more ideas, check out our blog on Keeping Your Dog Active When It’s Too Hot Outside.
Foods to Avoid This Summer
While it might be tempting to sneak your dog a bite of your burger or dessert, many summer foods can pose serious health risks.
Here are common summer foods that are unsafe for dogs:
- Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure
- Onions and garlic: Damage red blood cells and can lead to anemia
- Corn on the cob: A choking hazard or cause of intestinal blockage
- Hot dogs and sausages: Often contain high sodium, preservatives, and spices
- Avocados: Contain persin, which can cause stomach upset
- Chocolate and sweets (especially with xylitol): Toxic to dogs and potentially fatal
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous
Always keep food and drinks out of reach during cookouts, and be sure to educate your guests on not sharing food with your dog, especially children who may not realize the risks.
Teach “Leave It” for Summer Safety
Food temptations are everywhere in the summer, from picnic tables to unattended plates at parties. One of the best commands you can teach your dog is a reliable “Leave it.” This lifesaving skill can prevent your dog from grabbing harmful foods or getting into something they shouldn’t.
At Off Leash K9 Training – Dover, we specialize in Basic Obedience Training for Food-Motivated Dogs that helps teach impulse control in real-life environments like BBQs, parks, and crowded events.
Turn Mealtime Into Mental Enrichment
Looking to make feeding time more engaging this summer? Try stuffing dog-safe fruits or peanut butter into a Kong toy and freezing it for a cool, long-lasting treat. Or, use a snuffle mat to encourage foraging behavior indoors.
Using food puzzles or enrichment toys can satisfy your dog’s need for mental stimulation and reduce the chance of counter-surfing or food begging. Our game-based training approach pairs beautifully with food-based rewards to reinforce good behavior through play.
More Info on Dog Food Safety
Want to dive deeper into what dogs can and can’t eat? The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers a helpful list of safe and unsafe foods with explanations for each. Bookmark it as a go-to reference for any season.
Let’s Build Better Mealtime Manners
Teaching your dog not to beg, counter-surf, or steal food is essential for their safety and your peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a personalized training consultation. We’ll help your dog build impulse control and make smarter choices, no matter what’s on the table.