What Are Some Top Grilling Tips to Beat the Heat During Summer's Dog Days?

Grilling is a great way to enjoy summer, but it can be challenging during the hottest months. To beat the heat while grilling, start by preheating your grill for 15-20 minutes before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your food is cooked safely and avoid opening the grill lid too often. Marinating your meats can help keep them moist and flavorful, while using a drip pan can reduce flare-ups and prevent excess smoke. Consider grilling lighter fare like vegetables or seafood, which cook quickly and won't weigh you down in the heat. Lastly, be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while grilling.

Grilling has become a beloved American pastime, with 81% of the population owning a grill and grilling an average of 26 times per year, according to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association. As dogs are increasingly considered members of the family, more and more dog owners are including their furry friends in the backyard barbecue fun. Grilling expert and author of Smoke in the Mountains Cookbook, Kent Whitaker, believes that grilling is a family affair and that his dog, Moses, is an essential part of the experience. Whitaker and Moses have partnered with ALPO dog food to offer grilling demonstrations and tips for dog owners at ALPO "Beefstro" events across the country. Enhance the taste of your grilled favorites by using marinades, rubs, sauces, and various types of woods. While you're busy grilling, assign another family member to keep your dog engaged by giving them the mouth-watering scent of their favorite dog treat. Hold the treat close to their nose and prompt them to perform a basic trick, like sitting or staying, to earn the treat as a reward. To elevate the taste of your BBQ favorites, try using marinades, rubs, sauces, and a variety of woods for added flavor. While you're grilling, enlist the help of a family member to keep your dog entertained by exposing them to the delicious aroma of their favorite dog treat. Hold the treat close to their nose and prompt them to perform basic commands, like sitting or staying, in exchange for the treat as a reward. Add some fun to your BBQ by choosing a theme and ensuring that all the decorations and table settings match accordingly. And when it's time to sit down and relish the meal, don't overlook your furry family member. Create a spot for them by placing a placemat and a bowl on the ground near your table, and serve them a nutritious and delicious meal of ALPO Chop House Originals brand dog food with genuine meaty flavors that they crave. These tips will surely help you beat the heat while enjoying some delicious barbecue with your family and furry friends. Remember to prioritize safety by keeping the grill away from any flammable objects and never leaving it unattended. Additionally, ensure that your furry companions stay hydrated and avoid overheating by providing plenty of fresh water and a shaded area to rest. With these tips, you're all set to have a fun and memorable backyard barbecue with your loved ones, including your furry companions.