PupkeeperCaution
Barbecue hazards and dogs: what to do
Caution. Corn cobs, kebab skewers and cooked bones can block or pierce the gut, and fatty scraps can cause pancreatitis.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Tell the vet exactly what was eaten, such as a cob, skewer or bone.
- Keep dogs away from the grill and put leftovers in a lidded bin.
Don't
- Don't give your dog bones or fatty scraps from the barbecue.
- Don't leave a dog alone near hot food or coals.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Belly pain
- Lethargy or depression
- Bad odor from the mouth
- Burns from hot food, coals or ashes
Why
Corn cobs are one of the objects dogs swallow most often and can block the intestines. Fatty food can inflame the pancreas (pancreatitis).
Sources
- PDSA: BBQ Safety for Pet Owners
- ASPCA: What BBQ Staples Are Dangerous to My Pet?
- ASPCA: Pup Swallows Corn Cob, Undergoes Surgery
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.