Barbecues with dogs: hazards to keep out of the bowl

Leftover bones, corn on the cob, marinades and an unattended drink can turn the barbecue evening into an emergency for your dog. With a few rules you can protect him from poisoning, injuries and intestinal obstruction.

The grill smells, guests arrive and there are many plates on the table at the same time - a barbecue evening is extremely exciting for dogs. But it is precisely this mixture of distraction, accessible foods and well-intentioned snacks that makes it risky.

Not every danger is a classic poison. Some barbecue leftovers can cause mechanical injury or blockage to the oesophagus, stomach or intestines. Others cause vomiting, circulatory problems or damage to red blood cells. The safest thing to do is to follow a clear rule: your dog only gets food that has been deliberately intended for him beforehand.

Heated bones can become brittle and splinter. Sharp-edged pieces can injure the mouth, oesophagus and digestive tract. Large pieces can also get stuck or cause an intestinal blockage.

Wooden and metal skewers are particularly dangerous. They can pierce internal organs and often require surgical removal. Discard bones and skewers immediately in a tightly closed rubbish bin.

Corn kernels in small, unseasoned quantities are not the main problem for many dogs. However, the solid cob can be swallowed in larger pieces and block the intestines. An intestinal obstruction can only become apparent hours or days later through vomiting, refusal to eat, abdominal pain and lack of defecation.

If your dog has swallowed a piece of corn on the cob, don't wait for symptoms. Call the veterinary practice directly and describe the size, timing and estimated amount.

Onions, garlic, leeks and chives are Allium species. Their ingredients can damage red blood cells in dogs and cause haemolytic anaemia. This applies to raw, cooked, dried and powdered forms. Garlic and onion powder are often found in marinades, spice mixes and sauces.

There is also a lot of salt, fat, sugar or hot spices. Very fatty foods can cause severe gastrointestinal problems and promote pancreatitis in sensitive dogs.

Alcohol also has an intoxicating and toxic effect on dogs. Because of the lower body weight, even comparatively small amounts can be problematic. Vomiting, staggering, weakness, low temperature, breathing problems and impaired consciousness are possible consequences.

Do not place glasses on the floor and wipe up spilled drinks immediately. Desserts or doughs can also contain alcohol. Sugar-free products are also risky if they contain xylitol or birch sugar - this substance can cause life-threatening hypoglycaemia and liver damage in dogs.

For many dogs, the rubbish bag is more interesting than the set table. Packaging, aluminium foil, strings, skewers and greasy residues can be swallowed. Grilled fat and large amounts of very fatty food irritate the digestive tract. Therefore, secure rubbish and leftovers behind a closed door or in a lockable container.

Also keep your dog away from hot grills, glowing coals, and firelighters. If necessary, lead him at a safe distance - never so that the lead can knock over the grill.

Feed your dog’s regular meal before starting or offer him a safe activity in a quiet area. Expressly ask guests not to give anything from their plates. A short explanation is better than ten different “small exceptions”.

If necessary, prepare dog-friendly snacks separately, such as a few pieces of his usual food. This way you know exactly how much extra he gets and avoid a chaotic mix.

Secure leftovers and packaging, note the amount and time and call the veterinary practice or veterinary emergency service immediately. Do not induce vomiting on your own. Sharp objects, bones or corrosive substances can cause additional injuries.

Immediate emergency care is necessary if your dog has difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, severe staggering, ineffective retching, or a visibly distended abdomen.

The biggest grilling dangers aren't just toxic foods. Bones, skewers, corn on the cob, rubbish and hot surfaces can also cause an emergency. Secure the table and waste, inform guests and have a clearly defined dog-friendly alternative available.