Keeping dogs healthy starts with what is in their bowl — and during the summer, the right foods can help them stay cool, hydrated, and energized. Whether you’re looking for refreshing warm‑weather treats or everyday staples, these vet‑approved options make it easy to support your pup’s well‑being all year long.

Summer‑Friendly Foods for Dogs: Hydrating, cooling, and perfect for hot days.

• Watermelon (seedless, no rind) — Naturally hydrating and low‑calorie.
• Cantaloupe — Packed with vitamins and refreshing sweetness.
• Blueberries — Antioxidant‑rich; serve frozen for a cool treat.
• Strawberries — Fiber‑filled and hydrating.
• Cucumbers — Crunchy, low‑calorie, and cooling.
• Carrots — Freeze for a long‑lasting chew.
• Green beans — Hydrating and crunchy.
• Plain frozen yogurt (unsweetened, no xylitol) — A probiotic‑boosting summer snack.
• Ice cubes with fruit pieces — Simple enrichment that helps beat the heat.

Healthy Foods for Dogs All Year Long: Nutritious staples that support digestion, energy, and overall health.

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef, pork — cooked, unseasoned)
• Salmon or sardines (cooked or packed in water) — Great for skin and coat.
• Eggs (cooked) — A protein‑rich boost.
• Pumpkin purée (plain) — Excellent for digestion.
• Sweet potatoes (cooked, plain) — High in fiber and vitamins.
• Brown rice or quinoa — Gentle, healthy carbohydrates.
• Peanut butter (xylitol‑free) — Healthy fats and enrichment.
• Apples (no seeds or core) — Crunchy and vitamin‑rich.
• Bananas — Natural sweetness and potassium.
• Broccoli, spinach, zucchini — Nutrient‑dense veggies in small amounts.

Foods to Avoid: These can be toxic or harmful to dogs.

• Grapes & raisins
• Onions & garlic
• Chocolate
• Xylitol (found in sugar‑free foods)
• Macadamia nuts
• Alcohol

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If your dog eats something they shouldn't and begins to show signs of illness, immediately call your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital. If they are unavailable or you are far from a clinic, immediately call the ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.