When the weather warms up in York, the treats we reach for change, and the questions I get at the salon change with them. The short version: watermelon is a lovely, safe summer treat when prepared properly, plain popcorn is fine in small amounts, but ice cream is best avoided. Let's go through all three so you can keep treats cool and safe through the summer.
As always with anything extra, moderation is the rule, and treats should stay a small part of your dog's day rather than the main event.
Watermelon: yes, deseeded and no rind
Watermelon is a brilliant hot-weather treat. It's mostly water, so it's hydrating and refreshing, low in calories, and most dogs love the sweet, juicy texture.
- Remove all the seeds. Seeds can cause a blockage if eaten in quantity, so scoop them out first (seedless watermelon makes this easy).
- Cut off the rind. The hard green rind is tough to digest and a choking or blockage risk. Only feed the soft pink flesh.
- Cut into bite-sized chunks, and go smaller for little dogs.
- Frozen chunks make a wonderful cooling treat on a hot day.
Serve it fresh or frozen and keep the portion sensible, as too much of any fruit can loosen the stools.
Ice cream: best avoided
I know it's tempting to share a cone in the sunshine, but ice cream is one to skip for a few reasons.
- Lactose: many dogs are sensitive to dairy and get an upset tummy from it.
- Sugar: ice cream is very high in sugar, which isn't good for teeth or waistlines.
- Hidden dangers: some ice creams and frozen desserts contain xylitol (a sweetener that is toxic to dogs) or chocolate (also toxic), so a "quick lick" isn't worth the risk.
> Groomer's tip: You don't need shop ice cream to cool your dog down. Try a frozen banana, a few frozen watermelon or strawberry chunks, or a scoop of plain natural yoghurt frozen in an ice cube tray (check it contains no xylitol). Proper dog ice cream, sold in pet shops, is another safe option. All give the same cooling treat without the sugar, dairy or hidden nasties.
Popcorn: plain air-popped only
Popcorn can be a fun, light treat, but only the plain kind.
- Plain, air-popped, unseasoned popcorn is fine in small amounts.
- No salt, butter, sugar or toffee. The flavourings are the problem, not the corn, and salty or buttery popcorn is best avoided entirely.
- No unpopped kernels. These are a choking hazard and can be hard on the teeth, so pick them out before sharing.
A few plain pieces make a nice novelty treat, but keep it occasional.
Keep summer treats to the 10% rule
Whatever you're handing over, treats (fruit and snacks included) should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories, with the rest coming from their proper, balanced food. Introduce anything new in a small amount and watch how your dog gets on. For a general overview of safe everyday foods, the PDSA's guidance on your dog's diet is worth a look. And remember that in hot weather, fresh water and shade matter far more than any treat.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat watermelon seeds and rind?
No. Remove all the seeds, which can cause a blockage, and cut off the hard rind, which is difficult to digest and a choking risk. Only feed the soft pink flesh, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Why can't dogs have ice cream?
It's high in sugar, many dogs are sensitive to the dairy, and some varieties contain xylitol or chocolate, both toxic to dogs. Reach for a frozen banana, frozen fruit chunks or proper dog ice cream instead.
Is popcorn safe for dogs?
Plain, air-popped popcorn is fine in small amounts. Skip anything with salt, butter, sugar or toffee, and remove unpopped kernels first, as they are a choking hazard.
What is a good cooling treat for dogs in summer?
Frozen watermelon or strawberry chunks, a frozen banana, plain natural yoghurt frozen in ice cube trays (xylitol-free), or dog-specific ice cream. Fresh water and shade come first on hot days.
This is general guidance from a groomer, not veterinary advice. If your dog has a health condition, is overweight or is on a special diet, check with your own vet before adding new treats.
Fluffs is a professional dog grooming salon in Wigginton, York, offering one-to-one grooming for dogs of every breed and coat type across Haxby, Strensall, Huntington, New Earswick and the surrounding villages. In summer a good deshed keeps your dog cooler and more comfortable, so it's the perfect time to book in. Book their next groom.