What are the best and worst foods to feed your dog at the cookout this Fourth of July? (2024)

by: Hannah Shine

Posted: Jul 2, 2021 / 01:00 PM EDT

Updated: Jul 2, 2021 / 01:10 PM EDT

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – Everyone wants their dog to be included in the friends and family cookout during the holiday weekend.We know thosepuppy dog-eyes and drooling mouths are impossible to ignore,sowe are going to help youfindpaw-fectlysafe treats to share with yourpupsthis Fourth ofJuly!

The 5BESTfoods to share with your dog at thecookout:

1. Hamburger: You guessed it, and yourpupwill be happy to hear this one too. Hamburger meat is a healthyandperfectly harmlessoptionto give yourdog.It’sanexcellent treatand source of proteinfor them to enjoy with their ownersthis Fourth of July!
   
2. Pulled Pork: This barbeque favorite is a safe option to share with your doggo. Leave aside the spicy saucesand seasonings before you offer your dog thisyummy treat. The rich meat will satisfy your dog’s craving and make him or herfeel welcomed at the cookout! Maybe even throw insome pieces of abun for them to enjoy, too!
   
3. Mac andCheese:The oh-so-delicious side dishwillnotharm your pooch if they sneak a bite.Thislow-countryfavorite containscarbohydrates, protein, and othergreatnutrientsmakingita perfect treat.Your dogwill feel rewardedaftergetting a spoonful ofthatcheesy mac.
   
4. Pimento Cheese: This southern classic is a finesnack to feed your dog. Pimentosare non-toxic and loaded with vitamin A and C, while cheese hashealthy sources of proteinand calcium.
   
5. Popsicles: If notfully packed with sugary ingredients, popsicles can be a wonderful refreshmentto share with your pooch on this Fourth of July. Try making them at home using natural ingredients so you and your dog can enjoy this frosty treat.

The 5 WORST foods to share with your dog at thecookout:

1. Hotdogs:Youdid notexpect this one, did you? Because of theadditionalandmodifiedingredients inhotdogssuch ascitric acid, monosodium glutamate (MSG),and sodium,hotdogsarenotconsidered ahealthy choiceto feed your dog.
   
2. Baked Beans: I bet you are shocked to hear dogs should never eat baked beans! The extremeamountsof sugar and sodium in the canned good is very dangerous and unhealthy for dogs to consume. Here at News 2, we suggest you steer clear from feeding your dog baked beans this holiday weekend. Their digestive tract cannot handle these ingredients.
   
3. Corn on the Cob: It may be more dangerous than you think to feed your dog corn on the cob. Their stomachs cannot digest corn, plus thecob can be a major choking hazard, especially for bigdoggos!
   
4. Kebabs: Even though the meat on the kebab (I.e., chicken, beef, or lamb) is safe to feed your pup, make sure they don’t get a hold of the whole thing. The sharp wooden stick can be very dangerous and puncture your dog if consumed. When offering your dog a bite,make sure to alsoremove the onionsas they can be deadly and toxic to dogs.
   
5. PorkRibs: Though pork isconsidereda great source of protein for dogs, itisnot recommended to givethemtheentirebone to chew on. The bone may break in their mouth and splinter their throat or intestines – youdefinitelydon’t want tomake a trip to the vet this holiday weekend!