It’s that time of year, y’all! The big game is here, and whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just in it for the commercials, game day isn’t complete without a spread of tasty snacks and some good company. As you’re whipping up your famous dips and arranging the wings, don’t forget about your four-legged teammate—they deserve to be part of the fun, too!

Now, we all know most human treats are off-limits for our furry friends (sorry, no nachos or chicken wings for Fido), but there are plenty of dog-friendly snacks that’ll have them wagging their tails in delight. Think of it as a Super Bowl party just for them!

Here are a few festive and safe snacks you can whip up for your pup to enjoy while you’re cheering for your team:

•   BARKCUTERIE BOARD:   

Charcuterie boards are a popular party choice but creating one for your dog can be a quick and tasty way to serve some of their favorite treats. Most charcuterie boards include a combo of cured meat, cheese, and fruit, and a dog-safe option can include many of the same things, just with some adjustments. If you drop the cured meat (because of the high sodium content) but keep the cheese and fruit, you’ll have a barkcuterie board ready to go!As long as your furry friend is not lactose intolerant, add small slices of cheese as well as a combination of dog-safe fruit and vegetables onto a plate, board, or into separate bowls. You could even add some of their kibble, a dollop of xylitol-free plain Greek yogurt, or chopped turkey bacon. Get creative with it and add what you know your pup will enjoy.

• PITA PIZZA :

  It’s not game day without pizza! Although you may be tempted to share a slice with your dog or even hand them some pepperoni for them to enjoy, please remember that many of the ingredients in classic pizza recipes are harmful to dogs, such as the onion and garlic in the sauce and the often high levels of salt and oil.

  For a dog-safe option, take small pieces of plain pita bread, spoon on unsweetened apple sauce or xylitol-free peanut butter, sprinkle a small amount of cheese on top, pop it in the microwave until the cheese melts, and wait until cool to serve. You can also add toppings like bacon or pineapple based on what your dog likes.

• Mini “Pup” Burgers:

A little cooked, unseasoned ground beef or turkey shaped into bite-sized patties.

• Sweet Potato Chips:

Thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked until crispy.

• Frozen Peanut Butter “Footballs”:

Mix a bit of unsweetened peanut butter with plain yogurt, mold into football shapes, and freeze.

Before tossing any new treat to your dog, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet—just to play it safe. And remember, moderation is key. Even the best snacks can be too much of a good thing!

So, grab your jersey, settle in for the game, and make sure your furry MVP gets their share of the Super Bowl fun. Game on!