Newman's Own Jerky Treats for Dogs Original Recipe Beef -- 5 oz

Charcuterie boards, overflowing with a variety of colors, textures and flavors, are always an enjoyable food experience. But while you’re having fun with your grazing platter, someone else is wishing they could join the festivities. It’s time to let your loyal companion join the party with the ultimutt barkuterie board! The best part? You probably already have everything you need in your refrigerator or pantry. We’ve also included two easy-to-make treat recipes that’ll earn you lots of licks (on and after the board). Choosing the right foods for your board When gathering your selection, remember that you don’t need large amounts of any single item. The goal with a barkuterie board is to offer a balanced variety of protein, fruits and just-for-fun goodies. Here are some suggestions for your platter:

• Apple slices
• Bananas (peeled)
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Carrot sticks
• Cauliflower
• Cheese
• Cooked chicken (without bones)
• Cucumber
• Dehydrated fruit slices
• Dehydrated sweet potatoes
• Dog treats
• Dried meats or fish (unseasoned)
• Green beans
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Mango
• Peanut butter
• Pineapple
• Popcorn
• Raspberries
• Raw marrow bones
• Strawberries
• Watermelon
• Yogurt with a honey drizzle

 Items to leave out Be careful as some popular charcuterie board items may be toxic to dogs. Here’s a short list of foods that are unsafe and should be avoided:

• Grapes
• Raisins
• Olives
• Deli meats (the high level of sodium and other preservatives could be harmful or upset your pet’s stomach)
• Walnuts, macadamia nuts or brazil nuts
• Anything covered in chocolate

Though almonds and peanuts aren’t toxic, they can be a choking hazard to some. Use your best judgement when choosing items and always be sure to check before adding anything you’re unsure of.   Building your board Try using tiny sprigs of herbs for a pawsitively picturesque platter. The following herbs are dog-friendly:

• Basil
• Chamomile
• Cilantro
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Peppermint
• Rosemary

To arrange your board, place the larger items first. Next, organize collections of medium-sized foods, such as chucks of chicken, carrot sticks, hard-boiled egg halves and apple slices, in different areas around the board. Finally, fill the empty spaces with the smaller items. Try using peanut butter or yogurt to hold some of the goodies in place. If you have a cookie cutter, use it on slices of cheese for added cuteness.   As with anything, moderation is key. A barkuterie board is a fun treat for special occasions but shouldn’t take the place of your pet’s daily nutritious meal. Bone appétit!