It’s cookout season, and it culminates on Labor Day next month. Dogs are notorious for stealing items off the grill — or at least begging for a taste — but make sure you know what’s safe before handing out treats or laughing off a canine food theft.

Say yes with a smile to a bite of skinless, boneless lean meat, such as chicken, as long as it’s not slathered in barbecue sauce or anything spicy. Grilled veggies such as broccoli and carrots are OK, too. Avoid ribs and pork chops; the small or oddly shaped bones can cause choking or obstructions. Same for corn on the cob. And anything on skewers is a serious hazard. Keep trash out of dog reach, and alert guests not to give Baxter anything he shouldn’t have.

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