Barbecue Do's and Don't's for Your Dog

Summer is the perfect time of year for barbecues - and of course your dog will be by your side. However, having barbecue parties or even just family barbecues can be tricky for dogs, who always ask you to eat everything you're eating! Here's a list of both safe and dangerous barbecue food for your dog - so that you and your guests can help keep them safe (and maybe a little spoiled). 

No-No's

• Hot Dogs - While yummy and sharing a name with your pooch, hot dogs don't exactly agree with your pup's tummy. 
• Onions - Anything in the onion family can cause damage to your pet's digestive system. If they accidentally eat one or two pieces of onion or garlic, they will likely be okay. However, when consumed in mass, they can cause your dog's system to go into shock.
• Chips - Anything doused in salt (like chips, pretzels, and other salty snacks) is not good for your pup. Against, if they eat a couple pieces by accident, you won't need to rush them to the vet. However, eating it in excess could cause sodium poisoning, which can be fatal. 
• Grapes/Raisins - While fruit might seem like a yummy snack for dogs, grapes and raisins aren't very good for them. It depends on your dog, but some dogs have a very bad response to grapes and raisins, ending even in kidney disease and kidney failure. To be safe, keep them away from all dogs.

• Ribs, Chicken Wings, and Bones - While most people might know dogs to love bones, it doesn't mean bones from our food are good for them. Rib bones, pork bones, and chicken bones can become lodged in your dogs through, making them choke, or can puncture their digestive tract/stomach. 
• Corn on the Cob - The shape and size of corn on the cob can make it easy for your dog to swallow it and choke. 

Yes To

• Grilled Sweet Potatoes - As long as you don't add extra butter or salt, grilled sweet potatoes are a perfect barbecue food for you and your dog. 
• Chicken/Turkey Breast - If you're grilling chicken or turkey without the bone in it, you can let your pup have a piece or two. Just remember to give them a plain piece before you douse yours in sauces and seasoning. 
• Apples, Bananas, Blueberries, Watermelon - All of these fruits have tons of benefits for your pup! Just be sure to remove the seeds from both the watermelon and apples before you give your dog a piece.

Of course, remember that even the "yes" foods on this list should be given only as a small treat, in moderation. Remind your guests that while your dog is adorable, they can't spoil them too much (after all, that's your job).