They're juicy, flavorful and easily customized with toppings ranging from ketchup and mustard to chili and cheese. While hot dogs are delicious, they aren't the healthiest pick around. Hot dogs are a type of processed meat, a category of foods that are known carcinogens, according to the American Cancer Society.

Happy Hot Dog Man (2011)

Opt for plain, unseasoned hot dogs when treating your dog. Lean meats are best: The most suitable hot dogs for dogs are those lower in fat—options made from leaner meats, like chicken or turkey, or plant-based ingredients are generally the best choices. Low sodium: High levels of sodium are a no-go for dogs.

Because they contain so many added ingredients that are not healthy for dogs, hot dogs are not a good choice for your pooch. At a cookout, if you want to give your dog a safe treat, it's best to give them some plain beef, pork, or chicken that has no salt or other seasoning on it.