For the refined canine palate: ‘BarkCuterie’ creates charcuterie board for your dog

Written by Courtney Collen for Pigeon605

Yes, there is someone who will make a charcuterie spread for your dog.

Or, as the business is appropriately named, a “BarkCuterie.”

Based in Watertown, BarkCuterie is the brainchild of owner Lisa Converse, who isn’t new to the charcuterie-creating business. She founded Charcuterie Element in early 2021. 

For humans, the trendy charcuterie board typically includes high-end meats and cheeses with fruits, nuts, crackers and more. 

A few months later, the canine division was inspired by her ‘grand dogs,’ which typically get a special cake on their birthday each year. 

“Instead of a cake, we did a charcuterie board, and it was such a hit,” Converse said. “We took some photos, shared them, and it has just taken off from there.”

The BarkCuterie boards are curated with their safety in mind and feature a variety of healthy foods, including sardines, cucumbers, carrots and other veggies, blueberries, peanut butter, yogurt and organic dried treats. 

“These foods are rich in antioxidants and Omega-6 fatty acids and other healthy fats, which are all good for dogs,” she added. 

“Some dog owners are surprised when they see veggies on my boards like a cherry tomato, for example, because they haven’t haven’t introduced their dog to vegetables,” Converse explained. 

She avoids any produce on the short list that isn’t safe for dogs, including apple seeds or grapes. 

“Most fresh produce that is good for us is good for your dog too,” she said. 

Consult your veterinarian with any questions about your dog’s nutrition. 

Each board costs $24 and can be ordered and picked up in Watertown unless pre-ordered for various pop-up events outside the city.

One of those events was Woofstock, a fundraiser for local nonprofit Dakota Dachshund Rescue at Remedy Brewing Co. Aug. 5 in Sioux Falls, where a portion of each BarkCuterie board sold supported the organization and its medical fund. 

Dakota Dachshund Rescue was thrilled to have BarkCuterie participate. 

“I truly believe in fresh, healthy food and treats for dogs,” founder and president Diane Wade said.

“It’s a lot less expensive to feed dogs healthy treats than cheap treats, which have led to gastrointestinal issues and trips to the vet. I think this option is just amazing.”

It’s a win-win for BarkCuterie too. 

“Dachshunds are near and dear to my heart, so we thought this event would be a great opportunity to introduce BarkCuterie to Sioux Falls,” Converse said. 

Find BarkCuterie on Facebook and Charcuterie Element on Instagram and Facebook or e-mail BarkCuterie directly at [email protected].