Summer Treats Your Dog Will Love

Nothing screams summer like corn on the cob, fresh strawberries, and trying to lap up an ice cream cone before it drips down your arm.

We two-legged folks have plenty of foods to look forward to when the weather heats up. But what about our dogs?

Can we serve them something special to mark the season?

Here are  vet-approved dog treats for the dog days. Remember, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet.

Melons

Seedless watermelons and honeydew are high in moisture and cool the body from the inside, says Dr. Judy Morgan, a holistic veterinarian and author who specializes in food therapy.

Ginger Root

For a refreshing treat, mix watermelon juice with fresh ground ginger root and freeze in an ice tray. “The ginger soothes upset stomachs and is a great anti-inflammatory agent,“ says Morgan. “You can even feed this to a diabetic dog.”

Fresh Carrots

These make a great summer chew toy, says Morgan. Just don’t leave your dog unattended while she’s on the gnaw. Like bones, they could become a choking hazard.

Green Beans

These crunchy treats are an excellent source of fiber. “Even though dogs are meat-o-sauruses, they still enjoy their veggies,” says Morgan.

Coconuts

Coconuts and their milk are safe for dogs, just be sure to throw away the husks. This is one of the foods you want to introduce slowly as some puppy tummies can be sensitive to coconut, says Morgan.

Radishes

In Chinese medicine, radishes are cooling and draining, perfect for easing the heat of summer and releasing stuck energy. “Radishes help move things along and get the system going again,” says Morgan.