Summertime in Indiana means cookouts, family picnics, and lots of delicious food. But if you’re a dog owner, it also means staying alert to what your pup might sneak off the plate. While some summer food are safe and even healthy for dogs, others can lead to serious health issues.
Before you share a bite from the grill or toss a snack their way, let’s take a closer look at what your dog can enjoy and what to keep far out of reach.
Safe Summer Foods for Dogs
These dog-approved foods can be served in moderation and offer both hydration and nutrition.
- Watermelon (seedless, no rind)
Rich in water and vitamin A, watermelon is a refreshing, low-calorie treat. Just make sure to remove all seeds and rinds first. - Blueberries
These tiny powerhouses are full of antioxidants and perfect for frozen enrichment games or training treats. - Carrots
Crunchy, low in calories, and great for your dog’s teeth, carrots are a great summer snack, raw or frozen. - Plain Cooked Chicken or Turkey
Lean, skinless, and unseasoned poultry is a great source of protein for dogs. Just avoid bones, garlic, and onion seasonings. - Green Beans
Fresh or frozen, green beans are packed with fiber and help your dog feel full without extra calories. - Cucumbers
Low in fat and high in hydration, cucumbers are great for cooling off after a walk.
Dangerous Summer Foods to Avoid
Some picnic classics might seem harmless, but they can lead to anything from mild stomach upset to life-threatening emergencies.
- Grapes and Raisins
Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs. Never share them in fruit salads or baked goods. - Onions and Garlic
Common in marinades, seasonings, and grilled veggies, these can damage a dog’s red blood cells. - Corn on the Cob
While corn itself is safe in small amounts, the cob is a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages. - Chocolate and Desserts
From brownies to ice cream, chocolate and artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs and should always be off-limits. - Bones from Grilled Meats
Cooked bones can splinter and lead to serious digestive injuries. Always discard them securely. - Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks
Even a few licks of beer or soda can be dangerous for dogs. Never leave cups unattended within reach.
For a more detailed breakdown of food hazards, the American Kennel Club offers a comprehensive list of toxic and safe foods for dogs.
Use Summer Foods for Training and Enrichment
Safe summer treats can double as training tools when used intentionally. For example:
- Freeze blueberries or small watermelon cubes and use them for impulse control exercises
- Use lean cooked chicken as a high-value reward during recall training
- Load carrots into puzzle toys or scatter them during nose work games
Want to make summer training more effective and fun? Our Basic Obedience Training for Reactive Dogs includes techniques to improve focus around distractions, food, and people. It’s a great way to build calm behavior before, during, and after mealtimes or social gatherings.
Related Reading: Improve Focus with Game-Based Training
Many dog owners accidentally reinforce bad habits around food because their dogs get hyper or distracted during training. This guide on game-based training techniques shows how to boost your dog’s learning through fun, structured play.
Adding food rewards to games builds motivation and makes it easier to reinforce obedience even when there’s a cookout happening just feet away.
Tips for Safer Summer Snacking
- Always supervise your dog at outdoor meals
- Keep trash bins sealed and food covered
- Educate guests and children on what not to feed
- Use frozen-safe foods for enrichment in hot weather
- Introduce new foods slowly to avoid upset stomachs
Final Thoughts
Your dog doesn’t need a plate of ribs or a piece of pie to enjoy summer. With smart, dog-safe snacks and a bit of creativity, you can include them in the fun while protecting their health.
Need help building better behavior around food and distractions? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our training programs can help.