‘Dogcuterie’ Boards Are Trending and Because, Yeah, It’s 2021

What wouldn’t you do for little Annie Oakley the Pekinese mix? From revolving your vacation around her mood swings to forking over the big bucks on human-quality meal deliveries, there is truly no mountain high enough, river wide enough or valley low enough to keep you from making your dog happy. And now, enter “dogcuterie” (aka “barkcuterie”), the latest practice in keeping your four-legged family member sated and on-trend.

You know how charcuterie boards and grazing trays kinda took over the internet the last few years? (Why, hello there, jarcuterie.) Well, dogcuterie is simply the natural evolution of our favorite DIY pastime of gingerly placing snacking foods on a board in a beautiful-yet-accessible way. In this case, instead of serving it up to your in-laws, you’re serving it to your dog! That means, of course, the foods (and quantities) included should be canine-safe.

Want to celebrate Annie’s birthday with a special treat board?

1. First, find yourself a non-destructible serving dish. While that gorgeous marble cheese platter would look fabulous on your Instagram feed, the more pragmatic might want to stick to that big ole’ plastic plate you store in the garage for picnics and birthday parties. Also keep in mind your pup’s size—your five-pound chihuahua probably doesn’t need as many snacks to feel full as a 70-pound goldendoodle.

2. Stock up on dog-safe treats. Start with your pup’s favorite treats—like some grain-free soft chicken chews, a grass-fed bully stick, some homemade dehydrated sweet potato and perhaps a pumpkin puree or peanut butter “dipping sauce.” Wash up some veggies and produce you know Annie loves to devour—raw and steamed carrots, cauliflower, broccoli and fresh blueberries and strawberries (check out our full list of veggies for dogs.) Note: Just make sure all foods are safe for your dog (check with your vet) and prepared to avoid choking hazards (cut up small or steamed for softer texture).

3. Design your plate! Put on your artist’s hat and go to town. There’s no wrong way to lay out a dogcuterie board—and we have a feeling Annie probably won’t notice that carrot is sticking off the edge.

4. Serve away. Place on the ground (or elevated ledge) and let your pup have at it. Of course, keep in mind how much your dog should actually be eating at once (if Annie can pace herself, shouldn’t be a problem, but if she tends to gorge herself, consider plating only a small amount at a time). Also, if your pup is food-possessive, give them their own space to enjoy their dogcuterie board away from other animals who might steal a treat (and accidentally instigate brawl).