KEY TAKEAWAYS: Some BBQ safety tips for dogs include keeping them away from the hot grill, grease, charcoal, and lighter fluid; being mindful of leftover foods, especially cooked bones, corn cobs, and skewers; and setting up a shaded area with plenty of water where dogs can retreat. Lastly, plan fun dog-safe activities so dogs can enjoy the party, too.
Backyard BBQs are arguably one of the best parts of summer, but while everyone is enjoying burgers and grilled treats, many hidden dangers can put our dogs at risk.
Don't worry; our dogs won't have to miss the fun, as long as we plan ahead!
In this guide, let's talk about BBQ safety tips for dogs, including the common hazards, safe and dangerous foods to give, and ways to keep your dogs comfortable and entertained during your backyard barbecue party.
Why BBQ Safety for Dogs is Important
Planning a backyard barbecue is always fun, especially in the summer, but it's not without risks for our dogs.
Common BBQ Hazards for Dogs
Hot Grills, Fire, Smoke
Dogs lack the ability to recognize heat hazards, so hot grills and backyard barbecue fires may be highly dangerous for them.
The smell may entice them to come near and inspect what's up.
The combination of fire, smoke, and hot surfaces may pose several risks to dogs, including severe burns, especially for long-haired dogs, and smoke inhalation that may irritate their lungs.
Charcoal and Fire Starters
Leftover charcoal and drippings around may also pique a dog's curiosity, but this is dangerous because charcoal can still run hot for hours after the embers have been extinguished.
Dogs may also try to lick grease drippings, buckets, or spilled starter fluids, all of which are highly toxic and can cause severe stomach upset or intestinal blockages.
RELATED: My Dog Ate Charcoal: 3 Potential Risks
Skewers, Toothpicks, Sharp Objects
The smell of food can be highly tempting for dogs, which may make them curious or hungry enough to raid the trash or scour the floor for leftovers, just like this poor pup who swallowed a razor blade while sniffing for a leftover sausage sandwich.
Be extra wary of skewers, cooked bones, and toothpicks, as well as metal grill brushes, sharp cutlery, and broken glass, that your dog may pick up or get injured from.
Learn from the horrifying experience of one veterinarian as he recounted a past experience of treating a spaniel dog who “swallowed an entire wooden kebab stick, which had penetrated the wall of the stomach.”
Trash and Leftovers
Did you know that corn cobs are very dangerous to dogs? They can't be digested, and when swallowed, can cause severe bowel obstruction that can only be corrected through surgery.
Make sure to dispose of not only corn cobs but also leftover fruit pits, such as avocado and peach pits, which are highly dangerous for dogs.
Wrappers, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap that smell like food will easily tempt a dog. If swallowed, these non-digestible items can also cause serious intestinal blockages.
Unfamiliar People
Inviting over many unfamiliar people and the excitement in the air can overstimulate and trigger anxiety in our dogs. This is especially dangerous for dogs at risk of escaping.
RELATED: 10 Tips on How to Keep Your Dog From Running Away
BBQ Party Food Safe and Toxic for Dogs
Of course, the highlight of every backyard barbecue is the food, and our dogs shouldn't feel left out either.
Dog-Friendly BBQ Foods (In Moderation)
You can safely feed dogs grilled proteins such as boneless chicken, turkey, or lean steak, provided they are plain and unseasoned.
Grilled salmon is a great protein and omega-3 source for dogs, too, as long as you meticulously check them for tiny bones.
If you're wondering about hot dogs and hamburgers, yes, you can give your dog small portions as long as they are plain and unseasoned, and without any buns, cheese, or condiments.
You can also add dog-safe vegetables to their bowls, like grilled carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers.
Check out more dog-friendly vegetables here.
And for dessert or extra treats, your dog can safely have summer fruits served as is or frozen.
Watermelon, blueberries, strawberries, bananas, and apples are only some of the dog-safe fruits they can enjoy on a hot summer day.
Foods at BBQ Parties Dogs Should Avoid
Make sure your dog won't get their paws and mouths on these foods:
- Cooked bones
- Fatty meats
- Raw meat
- Onions and garlic
- BBQ sauce and ketchup
- Alcohol
- Corn on the cob
- Grapes and raisins
- Chocolates
- Anything that contains xylitol
RELATED: 5 Toxic Foods for Dogs That You Need To Avoid
8 BBQ Safety Tips for Dogs
1. Keep Dogs Away From the Grill
Keep your dog out of the area where the grill is set up.
If keeping the dogs inside the house is not an option, create a physical barrier around the grill using an adjustable pet gate or a crate.
This way, you're assured that dogs won't come near the grilling station. Make sure the hot grease buckets, matches, and lighter fluid are also strictly off-limits.
Also, keep the grill lid closed once cooking is done to prevent accidental burns.
2. Create a Quiet Rest Area
This is an important step of BBQ safety for dogs in every party you're planning to hold at home.
Pick a quiet location away from the noise and people at the party. A spare bedroom, laundry area, or a crate works best for this.
Provide the dog in this area with their comfort items, such as toys and blankets, treats, and plenty of water.
If you found a perfect spot outdoors (so they can join the party whenever they want), just make sure they are under shade and away from direct sunlight.
RELATED: Dog Corner Ideas: 12 Fun & Functional Spaces for Your Pet!
3. Keep Fresh Water Available
Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water.
You can constantly refill their bowl, or have a dog water fountain nearby that dispenses fresh, clean water whenever your dog needs it.
4. Prevent Food Stealing
The best way to ensure your dog won't steal or beg for food is through training.
Knowing the basic “Drop it” or “Leave it” command may also help you stop them from eating anything dangerous.
If your dogs aren't fully trained in these, that's okay! Feeding them before the party starts will minimize the temptation to scavenge.
Assigning a friend or family member as the dog sitter for the party will also help ensure someone is watching the dogs at all times.
RELATED: 6 Tips on How to Train a Dog to Stop Begging
5. Ask Guests Not to Feed Your Dog
Don't assume that every guest you invite knows the unspoken rule about not feeding your dog table scraps, especially non-dog owners.
Explicitly tell them what they can and cannot feed your dog. You're not being rude; you're just looking after your furry pal!
RELATED: 13 Dog Etiquette Rules To Remember When Visiting Family And Friends
6. Provide Safe Dog Food and Treats
Another way to stop your dog from begging or your guests from feeding it is to provide your furry pal with its own plate (or bowl)!
If you're inviting other dogs, you can also set up a buffet of dog-friendly treats, like the ones below!
7. Secure Trash Immediately
Dogs are natural diggers, so it's best to minimize the temptation by securing the trash immediately during and after the party.
Leftover food waste can be dangerous magnets for dogs; they might try to get their paws into discarded food and other materials, such as grease, packaging, and sharp bones.
RELATED: The 4 Best Dog-Proof Trash Cans
8. End the Party With a Yard Check
When the party's over and the guests have left, unfortunately for you, as the dog owner and host, your job isn't over yet.
You'll have to do a yard sweep to look for any leftover or potentially hazardous trash on the ground.
It's important to do it right after the party, so it won't slip your mind for the next day when your dog plays in the yard.
Fun Ways to Include Your Dog at a BBQ
Of course, keeping your dog safe doesn't mean they should be left out of the fun. Why not include them by being more thoughtful and intentional about the activities you include in the party?
Dog-Friendly Frozen Treats
Dogs love frozen treats, especially when it's hot outside, so much so that they'll leave you and your guests alone with your grilled foods, as long as they have something they can quench their hunger and thirst with!
You can check out several of our frozen dog treats linked below!
- Recipe: Frozen Cheeseburger Dog Treats
- Recipe: Easy Frozen Dog Treat
- Recipe: Frozen Dog Treats with Sweet Potato
- Recipe: Peanut Butter and Banana Frozen Dog Treats
- Recipe: Frozen Pupcakes Dog Treats With Fruits and Vegetables
Splash Pools
If your guests are swimming in the pool, your dog deserves to splash too!
Set up a splash pool dedicated to furry paws only, so they can enjoy the outdoors and cool off at the same time.
RELATED: Top 12 Best Dog Swimming Pool Choices for Summer
Outdoor Games
Preparing a classic game of frisbee or fetch can entertain your dog and distract them from the tempting smells of the barbecue party.
You can also set up DIY agility courses or a treasure hunt of treats that fellow dog owner guests can partake in, too.
Interactive Toys
Interactive dog toys can go a long way in keeping your dog busy. Some examples are automatic ball launchers, lick mats, and puzzle treat toys.
RELATED: Top 50 Best Interactive Dog Toys
Set Up Cooling Areas
Set up cooling mats and shade stations in a corner where the dogs can retreat to when it gets too hot outdoors. You can also add toys and treats here to keep the pups busy while resting. And of course, don't forget dog water bowls!
FAQs Related to BBQ Safety for Dogs
Can dogs eat hamburgers or hot dogs from the grill?
Plain, fully cooked beef or hot dog meat in small amounts is generally safe, but grilled foods that contain salt, onions, garlic, and seasonings can be harmful and should be avoided at all costs.
Also, avoid giving your dog fatty scraps or cooked bones.
Is charcoal dangerous if my dog eats it?
Yes. Charcoal can cause stomach upset, choking, or intestinal blockage, especially if large pieces are swallowed.
Charcoal briquettes may also contain lighter fluid or other chemicals that are toxic to dogs
RELATED: My Dog Ate Charcoal: 3 Potential Risks
How can I keep my dog cool during a summer BBQ?
Provide plenty of fresh water, shade, and a cool place to rest away from the grill.
Avoid the hottest part of the day, and consider using a cooling mat or cooling vest if temperatures are high.
Should I keep my dog inside during a barbecue party?
If your dog is anxious, prone to begging, or likely to slip out through open gates, keeping them indoors in a quiet, cool room is often the safest option.
Calm, well-socialized dogs can stay outside with close supervision.
RELATED: Dog Corner Ideas: 12 Fun & Functional Spaces for Your Pet!
What are the signs that my dog is stressed around guests?
Common signs include excessive panting, pacing, hiding, trembling, lip-licking, yawning, a tucked tail, or trying to escape.
Some dogs may also bark excessively or become unusually quiet. Giving your dog a quiet retreat can help them feel more comfortable.
BBQ Safety for Dogs: Before You Go…
The overarching theme of these tips for BBQ safety for dogs is preparation, supervision, and anticipation of potential hazards, as well as safe food and activities to prepare.
Keeping our dogs safe does not mean we can't enjoy summer activities and celebrations freely. It's just a matter of being intentional with what you plan for the day!
Do you have more dog-friendly BBQ tips or recipes to share with us? Let us know in the comments below or through our socials!
You can also check out more summer safety tips for dogs in the articles linked below!
