Summer in Houston means BBQs, outdoor picnics, and sunny afternoons filled with your favorite seasonal treats. But while you’re reaching for watermelon and hot dogs, you may be tempted to share some with your four-legged friend.

Not so fast. Many popular summer foods can be unsafe or even toxic for dogs. In this post, we’ll break down which summer foods are dog-friendly, which to avoid, and how to safely include your pup in the festivities.

Safe Summer Treats for Dogs

Want to give your dog a bite of your summer bounty? Stick to these dog-safe favorites (in moderation):

Watermelon: Seedless and rind-free, watermelon is hydrating and full of vitamins A, B6, and C.

Strawberries & Blueberries: These are great antioxidants and low in sugar compared to other fruits.

Carrots & Cucumbers: Crunchy, hydrating, and great for their teeth. Perfect for a refreshing chew.

Plain, Cooked Turkey or Chicken: Lean meats are fine if they’re boneless, skinless, and unseasoned.

Sweet Potato (cooked): Baked or boiled with no butter or seasoning. It’s a fiber-rich, nutrient-packed snack.

DIY Frozen Treats: Freeze plain yogurt with small pieces of fruit for a cool, safe pup-sicle.

Dangerous Summer Foods to Avoid

Some common BBQ and picnic foods are dangerous or even deadly for dogs. Watch out for these:

Grapes & Raisins: Even a small amount can cause kidney failure.

Chocolate & Desserts: Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and some baked goods), and heavy dairy are toxic.

Corn on the Cob: While corn kernels aren’t harmful, the cob can cause choking or intestinal blockage.

Cooked Bones: They can splinter and cause internal injuries. Never give your dog leftover ribs or chicken bones.

Salty Snacks: Chips, pretzels, and other high-sodium snacks can cause dehydration or sodium ion poisoning.

Onions & Garlic: These ingredients can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.

Summer Gatherings: Safe Sharing Tips

Planning a cookout or picnic? Here’s how to include your dog safely:

• Skip the scraps. It’s tempting to share, but table food can lead to GI upset or worse.
• Have dog-friendly treats ready. Bring training treats or frozen goodies for them to enjoy.
• Watch unattended plates. Dogs are sneaky when hot dogs and burger buns are within reach.
• Keep trash secure. Bones, skewers, and wrappers are dangerous if eaten.

Hosting a backyard party? These tips pair perfectly with our guide on how to reinforce training while camping or traveling, especially for dogs who need help focusing around food and distractions.

Why Obedience Matters Around Food

A well-trained dog is less likely to steal food or get into danger at summer gatherings. Teaching commands like “Leave it”, “Place”, and “Off” can prevent accidents and reinforce calm behavior.

Our Basic Obedience Training for Food-Motivated Dogs is ideal for dogs who struggle with boundaries around food. We teach dogs how to focus and respond whether they’re at a picnic or in your kitchen.

Want to Enrich Mealtime Indoors?

If you’re keeping your dog inside to avoid the heat, you can still make mealtime fun. Try using puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys to challenge your dog mentally while they enjoy healthy snacks.

You can also explore more options in this helpful pet-safe summer food guide from the American Kennel Club, which breaks down dozens of human foods.

Stay Safe and Focused This Summer

Summer should be a season of fun, not an emergency vet visit. By knowing what foods are safe and reinforcing obedience in real-life situations, you can help your dog stay healthy and well-mannered all summer long.

Contact our Houston training team today to learn how we can help your dog master calm behavior even around sizzling burgers and tempting treats.