10 Dog-friendly BBQ Foods

Can dogs eat BBQ food?

yes, dogs can eat a variety of BBQ foods as long as they are plain and unseasoned. Safe options include grilled chicken, turkey, lean beef, carrots, green beans, watermelon and blueberries. Avoid foods with sauces, bones, onions, garlic or high salt, as these can be harmful to dogs.

What BBQ foods are safe for dogs?

1. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great dog-friendly BBQ option when cooked plain, offering fibre, slow-release energy, and being rich in vitamin A, which is important for supporting your dog’s vision, immune system and skin health. If you’re unsure whether they should be served raw or cooked, or how much to give, read our guide on can dogs eat sweet potatoes raw or cooked.

2. Salmon

Salmon skewers are a welcome fish dish to any BBQ. Offering a large dose of protein, good fats and amino acids, these skewers can promote joint and brain health in your pup.

3. Plain chicken

Chicken is an excellent source of protein for your doggy. A simple olive oil and rosemary marinade will create some tasty, dog-friendly chicken breasts but don’t add salt and pepper until after cooking, as this can be dangerous for your pooch if digested.

4. Beef (no seasoning)

Beef burgers are a key BBQ staple that your dog can also enjoy! Homemade is best and if you want to incorporate seasoning and onions, make a separate plain patty for your pooch, as these ingredients can prove harmful.

5. Potatoes

Dogs can eat plain, cooked potatoes, such as jacket potatoes, which are a no-fuss BBQ food for both human and canine! However, avoid feeding raw potatoes to your dog as these contain solanine, a compound that is toxic to dogs.

6. Fresh fruit

Fruit can help you and your pup feel refreshed on a sunny, summer day! Safe fruits you can share with your bestie include bananas, oranges, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mango and pineapple. Bananas, in particular, are a popular choice as they provide natural energy and key nutrients, but portion size matters, learn more in our guide on can dogs eat bananas, risks and safe portion sizes. If your dog isn’t used to having fruit, try feeding them small amounts and introducing it into their diet slowly.

7. Broccoli

Dogs can eat raw or cooked broccoli in moderation, so you can pop some broccoli on your grill and serve up some charred veggie goodness for all. Although broccoli can make a healthy snack for your pooch, too much may irritate their digestive system, so moderation is key.

8. Corn

If corn on the cob is a must at your BBQ, be aware that this is a choking hazard to your dog and could lead to an intestinal obstruction. However, plain cooked corn kernels are a safe source of vitamins and minerals.

9. Pork

Plain, boneless, cooked pork is a safe meaty dish for your pup to enjoy! If you’re planning some BBQ pork, smothered in seasoning and sauce, remember that classic BBQ flavouring ingredients such as garlic, onion and paprika are highly toxic to dogs.

10. Zucchini 

Zucchini is a safe and healthy BBQ option for dogs when served plain and in moderation. It’s low in calories and contains fibre, vitamin C and vitamin A, which can support digestion, immune health and a healthy skin and coat. If you’re preparing zucchini on the grill, make sure it’s cooked without oil, seasoning, garlic or onions, allow it to cool, and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces before serving.

What BBQ foods should dogs avoid?

While some BBQ foods are safe, many popular options can be harmful to dogs and should always be avoided. Ingredients commonly used at BBQs can cause anything from mild stomach upset to serious health issues.

• Onions, garlic and chives – highly toxic 
• Chocolate, grapes and raisins – highly toxic, even in small amounts
• Sausages, burgers and fatty meats – high in salt and fat, can cause pancreatitis
• Cooked bones – can splinter and lead to choking or internal injuries
• BBQ sauces and marinades – often contain sugar, salt, garlic and additives
• Salty snacks (crisps, etc.) – can lead to dehydration and sodium imbalance

To keep your dog safe, always stick to plain, unseasoned foods and avoid sharing typical BBQ leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions