Summer Snacks for Dogs: Safe Fruits, Veggies, and Foods to Avoid
When summer rolls around, it’s not just us ‘hoomans’ who enjoy the vibrant array of fresh fruits and vegetables. Our canine companions love a seasonal treat too! But while some summer produce can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, others can be dangerous—even deadly. Can dogs eat strawberries? Will avocado make my dog sick? This guide will help you navigate the do's and don'ts of summertime snacking for dogs and give you practical tips on how to introduce new foods safely.
A sweet dog eating watermelon in a field.
Healthy Summer Fruits & Vegetables for Dogs
These dog-friendly fruits and veggies are packed with vitamins, hydration, and crunchy satisfaction. Always wash produce thoroughly, remove pits or seeds, and serve in moderation.
Watermelon
High in water content (over 90%), watermelon is perfect for hydration.
Remove the seeds and rind before offering to your pup.
Great served cold on hot days or frozen into pup-sicles.
Blueberries
Antioxidant-rich and bite-sized, blueberries are ideal as training treats.
They support immune health and are low in calories.
Can be served fresh or frozen for a cool crunch.
Strawberries
Full of fiber and vitamin C, strawberries are a sweet and juicy snack.
They contain a natural enzyme that may help whiten your dog’s teeth.
Serve in moderation due to natural sugar content.
Carrots
Crunchy, sweet, and low in calories, carrots are a doggy favorite.
Great for dental health and packed with beta carotene.
Can be served raw, steamed, or frozen.
Cucumbers
Light, hydrating, and crunchy, cucumbers are perfect for overweight dogs.
Peel if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Avoid seasoned or pickled varieties.
Green Beans
A low-calorie source of fiber and vitamins like A, C, and K.
Best served steamed or raw in small chunks.
Many dogs enjoy them frozen on hot days.
Apple Slices (No Seeds)
Apples provide fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Always remove the core and seeds (which contain cyanide).
A great crunchy treat—try freezing them for teething puppies.
Courgettes
High in fiber and low in calories, courgette is a gentle vegetable on doggy tummies.
Serve chopped, raw, or lightly steamed.
A great topper to mix in with regular dog food.
Two dogs lying on the grass eating courgettes.
Dangerous Fruits, Vegetables, and Foliage to Avoid
Some summer produce and garden plants may be toxic or harmful to dogs. Here are the most important ones to keep out of paw’s reach:
Grapes and Raisins
Even small amounts can cause kidney failure.
Toxicity is unpredictable and varies by dog.
Avoid them entirely.
Cherries (Especially Pits and Leaves)
Cherry pits contain cyanide, and the fruit can upset stomachs.
The stems and leaves are also toxic.
Better safe than sorry—skip cherries altogether.
Onions and Garlic (Including Powdered Forms)
Can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Toxic even in small amounts.
Found in many pre-prepared foods, so always check labels.
Tomato Plants (Leaves and Stems)
While ripe tomatoes are generally safe in small amounts, the green parts of the plant contain solanine.
Solanine is toxic and can cause nausea, lethargy, and heart issues.
Fence off tomato gardens or grow them out of reach.
Rhubarb
The leaves are highly toxic, and the stalks can upset your dog’s tummy.
Causes kidney issues and can lower calcium levels.
A definite no-go.
A dog sniffing at a bunch of grapes with a big No Sign through the image.
Tips for Introducing New Foods into Your Dog’s Diet
When giving your dog new fruits or vegetables, slow and steady wins the race. Here's how to do it right:
Start Small
Offer a small amount to see how your dog reacts—both in terms of digestion and interest.
Watch for signs of allergies or sensitivities, such as itching, diarrhea, or vomiting.
One at a Time
Introduce new foods one by one to easily identify any that don’t agree with your dog.
This helps prevent overwhelming their digestive system.
Serve Plain
Avoid seasonings, oils, salts, or dips. Dogs don’t need flavor enhancers—they’re excited enough by plain produce!
Even small amounts of added ingredients can cause stomach upset.
Be Mindful of Calories
Fruits and veggies should complement—not replace—your dog’s regular food.
Treats (including healthy ones) should make up no more than 10% of their daily intake.
Use Safe Preparation Methods
Wash thoroughly to remove pesticides or chemicals.
Remove seeds, pits, stems, and rinds.
Cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
A beautiful dog with stunning eyes and a strawberry resting on his snout.
Creative Ways to Serve Summer Snacks
Frozen Pup-sicles: Blend dog-safe fruits with a bit of plain yogurt and freeze in silicone molds.
Stuff a Kong: Fill a Kong with mashed sweet potato, carrot chunks, or watermelon bits and freeze.
DIY Treat Cubes: Drop blueberries or apple slices into an ice cube tray, fill with water or low-sodium broth, and freeze.
Fruit & Veggie Platter: Serve a rainbow selection during summer picnics—just remember, no grapes!
A dog licking at a homemade ice lollie - dog friendly ingrediants.