If you have a large dog at home, you’ve probably faced this moment: the delicious smell of barbecue fills the backyard, the guests are chatting, the meat is sizzling… and there he is — your big dog, staring at you with those pleading eyes, hoping for a little taste.
With Max, my Labrador, it’s always the same. He knows exactly when the grill comes out and positions himself right next to it, giving me that “good boy” face that almost wins me over every time.
But as tempting as it is, I’ve learned (with my vet’s help and some tough experiences) that feeding barbecue leftovers to dogs is not a good idea — not for them, and not for us.
So What’s the Problem?
The meat itself — especially plain, unseasoned meat — isn’t the main issue.
The real problem lies in the seasonings, bones, and side dishes that usually come with barbecue. Here’s why it’s best to avoid it:
❌ Seasonings and Fats
Barbecued meat is often loaded with salt, garlic, onion, marinades, and sauces.
These can lead to:
- Stomach irritation
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Pancreatitis, especially in sensitive breeds
Max once got sick after eating a greasy piece of meat that fell on the ground.
He lost his appetite for two days, had diarrhea, and needed medication.
❌ Cooked Bones
People often think dogs love bones. And they do! But cooked bones, especially from chicken or ribs, can be very dangerous.
They break into sharp splinters that may:
- Pierce the intestines
- Cause choking
- Get stuck in the throat or stomach
❌ Risky Side Dishes
Garlic bread, farofa, salads with onion, or mayonnaise-heavy dishes might seem harmless, but they often contain toxic or irritating ingredients for dogs.
Can Big Dogs Handle It Better? Not Really.
There’s a common myth that large dogs can “handle more” when it comes to eating the wrong food. That’s a dangerous assumption.
Even though their bodies are bigger, they can still have serious — even life-threatening — reactions to the wrong food.
Max weighs almost 40 kg (about 88 lbs), but a small greasy piece with garlic made him very sick.
What to Do When He Starts Begging?
At my house, here’s what works:
- I prepare special treats just for Max, like plain grilled lean meat.
- I offer dog-safe fruits, like apple or banana, to distract him.
- And I always ask guests not to feed him, no matter how cute he looks.
Over time, he’s learned not to expect leftovers — but he knows there’s something just for him coming his way.
Caring Means Saying No
It might seem harsh at first, but taking care of your dog’s diet is a real act of love. It’s saying “no” to that little scrap now so you don’t end up rushing to the emergency vet later.
So the next time you’re grilling out, remember: it’s better to prepare something safe and special just for your dog so they can join the fun without risking their health.