Summer BBQs are full of delicious smells, sizzling grills, and excited guests—but for pets, they can also be a minefield of danger. Many common cookout foods seem harmless but can actually be toxic or unsafe for dogs and cats.
Whether you’ve got a hopeful pup lurking under the picnic table or a curious cat sneaking onto the patio, here are 10 surprising BBQ foods to keep far away from furry friends.
1. Corn on the Cob
Corn itself isn’t dangerous, but the cob can be. Dogs love to chew on them, but if swallowed, the cob can cause a serious intestinal blockage.
Even small pieces can get stuck in the digestive tract and require emergency surgery. It’s best to throw corn cobs away in a sealed trash can right away.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs. Even in small amounts, they can cause sudden kidney failure.
These fruits often appear in salads, desserts, or cheese trays at BBQs, so it’s important to keep them completely out of reach.
3. Onions and Garlic
Found in marinades, burger toppings, and side dishes, onions and garlic can damage your pet’s red blood cells and lead to anemia.
Cooked or raw, powdered or fresh—they’re all harmful. Be extra cautious with meat scraps that have been seasoned.
4. Skewers and Toothpicks
It’s not the food but what it’s served on. Dogs and cats may snatch a meat-covered skewer or toothpick and swallow it whole.
These sharp objects can cause punctures in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract, leading to serious injuries. Always dispose of them safely.
5. Fatty Meat Scraps
It’s tempting to share a bite of steak or burger, but too much fat can trigger pancreatitis in pets—a painful and dangerous condition.
Greasy foods can also lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or long-term health problems. Stick to lean, unseasoned bites if you want to treat them (in moderation).
Read More: 15 Quick Dog Training Fixes for Summer Problems
6. Chocolate Desserts
Chocolate is well-known as a pet hazard, but it’s easy to forget during a party. Cakes, cookies, and brownies often sit unattended within reach.
The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is. The safest option? Keep all sweets off the ground and away from sniffing noses.
7. Bones from Cooked Meat
Cooked bones—especially from chicken, ribs, or pork—can splinter and cause internal injuries. These shards can choke your pet or puncture their digestive system.
Even large dogs are at risk. Raw, edible bones (prepared safely) may be okay in some cases, but cooked bones should always be a no-go.
8. Alcohol and Beer
Alcohol can cause serious harm to pets, even in small amounts. It affects their liver and nervous system and can lead to vomiting, tremors, or worse.
Keep an eye on open cans, cups, or spilled drinks. Curious pets might sneak a sip before you even notice.
9. Avocados
Avocados contain persin, which can upset a dog’s stomach and is even more dangerous for birds and some other animals. The pit also poses a choking hazard.
Guacamole often includes onion and garlic too, making it a dangerous mix. Keep dips well out of reach.
10. Macaroni Salad and Coleslaw
These creamy sides may seem innocent, but they often contain onions, garlic, and loads of mayonnaise, which can spoil quickly in the sun.
Dairy and fatty dressings can upset your pet’s stomach or even lead to food poisoning. It’s best not to share these side dishes at all.
BBQs are fun for the whole family—including pets—but they do come with risks. Share safe treats made just for them, and always watch what falls from the plate to the ground. A little awareness goes a long way toward a safe and happy summer.
