Choking Is a Serious Risk For Toddlers; Here's How to Cut Their Food For Safe Eating

While we don't suggest that hot dogs become an everyday food for little ones, as they are typically loaded with sodium — once in a while, they can fit into a balanced and healthy diet.

That being said, the tube-like shape of hot dogs can be a choking hazard for little ones. Because of this, hot dogs can be cut lengthwise into quarters and then cut into bite-sized pieces to keep them as safe as possible.

Barnes shared that for one-year-olds, hot dogs may be enjoyed after they are sliced lengthwise in quarters. Once the child is 2 or 3, Barnes said they may be eaten after they are sliced lengthwise in half.