Memorial Day Party Foods That Are Safe for Dogs
Memorial Day means backyard barbecues, cold drinks, and plates stacked high with burgers and grilled corn. And if you’ve got a dog, you know they’ll be right there, staring you down like they’ve been personally invited to the feast.
At A Pup Above, we get it. Our dogs have mastered the art of looking starved, even though they just ate. But not everything on your plate is safe for them — some party foods are totally fine to share, while others are a one-way ticket to an emergency vet visit.
So, before you cave to those puppy-dog eyes, let’s break down which Memorial Day party foods are safe for dogs, what to avoid, and how to keep your pup happy (and healthy) while you celebrate.
Can Dogs Eat Burgers and Hot Dogs?
It depends. Plain, unseasoned beef or turkey patties are generally fine for dogs in moderation, but the moment you add onions, garlic, heavy spices, or salt, it’s a no-go.
If you want to share, keep it simple. A small piece of plain, cooked burger (without the bun or toppings) is okay as a treat. Just avoid giving them anything loaded with condiments, cheese, or seasonings, and definitely skip the hot dogs. They’re too high in sodium and can be tough on a dog’s digestive system.
Want to make them feel included? Set aside a small portion of plain, cooked meat before seasoning your burgers, or offer them a dog-friendly alternative like our Texas Beef Stew — it’s got the meaty goodness they crave, minus the risky extras.
What Vegetables Can Dogs Safely Eat?
Dogs don’t care if it’s grilled, raw, or straight off your plate — if it looks like food, they’re interested. Luckily, some Memorial Day veggies are totally safe for dogs and even packed with nutrients.
Carrots
Drop a carrot, and your dog’s got it covered. These bright orange snacks are loaded with vitamin A and fiber, making them a solid, low-calorie treat. Serve them raw for a satisfying crunch, steam them for a softer option, or freeze a few for an extra refreshing chew on a hot day.
Bonus: They double as a natural toothbrush, scraping away plaque with every bite.
Green Beans
Green beans are a go-to veggie for dogs — they’re light, packed with nutrients, and easy to eat. Stick to fresh, frozen, or steamed, and skip anything from a can (too salty). If your pup likes a little crunch, a chilled green bean from the fridge is an easy win.
Prefer something softer? A quick steam does the trick. Either way, they’re a great low-calorie bite that won’t weigh your dog down.
Cucumbers
If your dog loves a fresh, hydrating snack, cucumbers are the move. They’re mostly water, making them a great way to keep your pup refreshed while munching on something crisp. Cut them into thin rounds or slice them into sticks — whatever works best for your dog’s size and chewing style.
Pro tip: If the summer heat has your pup panting, toss a few cucumber slices in the freezer for a chilly, snackable treat.
Zucchini
Zucchini isn’t flashy, but it’s got a lot going for it — easy to digest, packed with vitamins, and super versatile. You can slice it raw for a simple snack, steam it to soften things up, or toss a few thin strips on the grill (no oil or seasoning!) if you’re already cooking. Not every dog loves the taste, but those who do get a nutritious, low-calorie veggie with a little extra flair.
Peas
Peas are proof that good things come in small packages. They’re full of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and they’re easy to scatter into a meal or hand out as quick treats. Fresh or frozen is the way to go — canned peas tend to be loaded with sodium, which isn’t great for dogs. If your pup loves interactive eating, try rolling a few across the floor and let them “hunt” for their snacks.
What Foods Should My Dog Avoid at the Memorial Day Party?
We’ve talked about burgers, covered how hot dogs are basically a salt bomb, and even broken down which veggies are safe to share.
But what about the foods that are a hard no?
Bones
Sure, it sounds natural — dogs and bones go together, right? Not when it comes to cooked bones. Grilled, roasted, or smoked bones can splinter into sharp shards, which means choking, digestive blockages, or even internal injuries. If your dog needs something to chew, go for a dog-safe bone or chew toy instead.
Onions & Garlic
Remember how we touched on onions and garlic being a hard pass when it comes to seasoning burgers? That’s because they’re both highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. That means onion rings, garlic bread, and even foods cooked with onion or garlic powder are off the table.
BBQ Sauce, Ketchup, & Other Condiments
We talked about avoiding condiments, but you might be wondering why. The short answer? They’re packed with things dogs shouldn’t have — like onions, garlic, salt, and, in some cases, artificial sweeteners like xylitol (which is extremely toxic).
Even if xylitol isn’t in the mix, most sauces are overloaded with sugar and sodium — two things that do your pup zero favors. If your dog’s looking for flavor, they’re better off sticking to real, whole foods.
Grapes & Raisins
You wouldn’t think a fruit salad could be dangerous, but grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Scientists still don’t know why they’re so toxic, but even a small amount can be harmful. If you’re serving fruit, make sure grapes are kept far away from begging pups.
Alcohol
It should go without saying, but dogs and alcohol do not mix. Even small amounts of beer, wine, or cocktails can lead to vomiting, disorientation, difficulty breathing, and worse. If your pup is curious about what’s in your cup, stick to their water bowl.
Desserts
Memorial Day desserts are often packed with chocolate, artificial sweeteners, or way too much sugar — all bad news for dogs. Chocolate can be toxic, xylitol is deadly, and too much sugar can lead to stomach upset and long-term health issues. If your dog has a sweet tooth, a small bite of plain fruit (like blueberries or apple slices) is a much safer option.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe at Your Memorial Day Barbecue
Food isn’t the only thing to keep an eye on during a Memorial Day cookout — between the grill, the guests, and the general chaos, there are a few other ways to make sure your pup stays happy and safe while you celebrate.
Watch Out for Well-Meaning Guests
Your dog might not be the only one sneaking snacks — well-meaning friends and family might think they’re being generous by slipping your pup a little something under the table. Set some ground rules ahead of time so everyone knows what’s safe and what’s not. Better yet, set up a dog-friendly snack station with pre-approved treats so your pup doesn’t feel left out.
Keep Dogs Away From the Grill
With all the sizzling meat and mouthwatering smells, your dog is going to be very interested in what’s happening at the grill. But one wrong move near an open flame or a hot surface can lead to burns or worse. Keep your pup at a safe distance by setting up a designated hangout spot or using a baby gate to block off the grilling area.
Watch for Trash Can Raids
A knocked-over trash can is basically an all-you-can-eat buffet for a determined pup. Bones, food scraps, and used skewers can all be dangerous, so keep trash cans covered or out of reach. If your dog is particularly crafty, consider using one with a locking lid.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water and Shade
Memorial Day can get hot, and a panting pup is a pup that needs a break. Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh water and a shady spot to cool off. If it’s extra warm, a kiddie pool or a damp towel to lie on can be a great way to keep them comfortable.
The Bottom Line
Memorial Day is all about good food, good company, and making memories — and that includes your dog. While it’s fun to share, not everything on the menu is meant for them, so stick to dog-safe options, keep an eye on what they’re getting into, and make sure they have a comfy spot to hang out.
If your pup isn’t thrilled with just a plain burger or some fresh veggies, no worries — we get it. That’s why at A Pup Above, we make real, slow-cooked meals that actually taste good. Because at the end of the day, your dog deserves food worth celebrating, too!
Sources:
Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs? Why Hot Dogs Aren't Healthy for Dogs | American Kennel Club
5 Health Benefits of Zucchini | Cleveland Clinic
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