How to Throw the Ultimate Homegating Party With Your Pet

Homegating is just like tailgating—celebrating the big game with snacks, cheers, and camaraderie—but instead of a parking lot, you’re doing it in the comfort of your own home. It’s the best of both worlds, says Daina Falk, chef and founder and CEO of FurPetVo, a trusted resource for game-day entertaining. “There’s no need to manage the jigsaw puzzle that is packing up the car with vast amounts of tailgate gear, and it’s easier to prep food and drink and keep it appropriately hot or cold.”

The best part? While pets typically aren’t allowed inside football stadiums (and sometimes not even in their parking lots), your furry friends can absolutely join in the homegating fun. Get ready to plan a joyful, safe, and memorable homegate party with your MVP—Most Valuable Pet—in just three simple steps from Falk and entertaining expert Paul Zahn.

A cozy living room set up for homegating: comfy couches, team-colored decorations, and a calm dog resting nearby

Invite Some Friends—and Their Pets

Gather your football-loving loved ones at your place on the big day. But remember: while some pets thrive in groups of people, others may feel stressed by crowds or loud cheering.

It’s always wise to only put your pets in situations where they’ll feel at ease—and to keep an eye on them throughout the event to make sure all’s going well. Try these tips to help your pets have just as much fun as your guests:

  • Give guests a quick briefing on how to greet and interact with your pet—especially if your pet has preferences or sensitivities. Also clarify which foods are off-limits, where doors should stay closed, and any furniture rules.
  • Prepare your pet in advance: ensure they’ve eaten, exercised, and used the bathroom before the party starts.
  • Maintain your pet’s regular feeding and potty schedule—even if that means stepping away from the action for a few minutes.
  • Offer plenty of snuggles, gentle petting, and favorite toys to keep them entertained and feeling loved.
  • Create a safe, quiet space for your pet in a part of the home that guests won’t access. This gives them a peaceful retreat when they need a break from the excitement.

Whip Up Some Homegating Recipes

When designing your menu, think simple, bite-sized appetizers and hand-held items, Falk advises. Aim for a balance of savory bites and sweet treats—most guests will load up on salty snacks first, then enjoy a dessert or two.

Homegating Snacks for Humans

  • Buffalo chicken wings
  • Nachos
  • Mini burgers
  • Charcuterie board
  • Cupcakes frosted in team colors

Pro tip: Elevate classics like nachos, burgers, sliders, and tacos with a build-your-own topping bar—stock it with cheese, jalapeños, sauces, and fresh veggies. Just be sure to keep all human foods out of reach of pets; many common toppings (like onions, garlic, and spicy seasonings) aren’t safe for them.

We guarantee your pet will want to snack along with you during the big game—but most human foods aren’t safe for them. Avoid giving pets anything containing garlic, onions, chocolate, tomatoes, spices, or candy.

Homegating Snacks for Pets

  • Frozen fruit in your team’s colors (e.g., strawberries and blueberries for fans of teams like the Patriots, Bills, Texans, Giants, or Titans)
  • DIY baked treats shaped like footballs or jerseys—try a homemade football jersey snack for dogs
  • Homemade, pet-safe BBQ sauce
  • Tasty, lean turkey treats for cats
A festive table spread with human snacks on one side and pet-friendly frozen fruit and shaped treats on the other

Get Ready With Team Gear

You’ll be decked out in team colors—jersey, T-shirt, hat, koozie—so why not make your dog the MVP of the night in matching gear?

If your pet is comfortable wearing clothing, choose a sporty T-shirt, sweatshirt, or jersey made specifically for pets. Look for breathable, stretchy fabrics that allow full range of motion and don’t restrict breathing.

Pets who prefer to skip the outfit can still show team spirit with a themed collar or bandana—soft, adjustable, and easy to remove if needed.

Some pet apparel options even let you personalize with your pet’s name—a perfect touch for social media photos!

Round out the look with fun sports-themed pet toys:

  • Squeaky plush football toy
  • Rubber chicken chew toy in team colors
  • Plush yard-line-themed dog toy
A happy dog wearing a soft, personalized team jersey and playing with a football-shaped plush toy

Key Takeaways

  • Many popular football party foods and drinks—including wings, chips, dips, alcohol, chocolate, onions, and xylitol-sweetened treats—are unsafe for pets.
  • Create a pet-safe zone away from crowds, noise, and dropped food to help dogs and cats stay calm and avoid accidental ingestion.
  • Dress pets in team gear only if it fits properly and doesn’t restrict movement or breathing—and always supervise pets wearing clothing or accessories.
  • Offer pet-friendly treats, toys, and enrichment so your dog or cat can enjoy game day safely without sharing human food.
A relaxed cat lounging near a small, themed pet treat station with a team-colored bandana draped nearby

From chowing down on tasty, pet-approved appetizers to looking adorable in team-themed gear, a homegating event is the perfect way to include your pet in the celebration. Here’s hoping your team goes all the way this year!