Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness, gratitude, and (of course) delicious food! As we gather around the table to enjoy all the flavors of the season, our four-legged family members are often right there, wagging their tails and hoping for a nibble. While it’s tempting to share a little holiday love from your plate, it’s important to remember that not all Thanksgiving treats are safe for your dog.
This guide will help you celebrate Thanksgiving safely with your furry friend by outlining foods that are safe for them and foods that should stay far away from their bowl.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
Here are some holiday foods that are dog-friendly (in moderation, of course!):
1. Turkey (Plain, Skinless, and Boneless)
- Cooked turkey meat is a great source of lean protein for dogs.
Avoid: Turkey skin, which is fatty and often seasoned with spices that can upset a dog’s stomach.
2. Sweet Potatoes (Plain)
- Packed with fiber and vitamins, plain cooked sweet potatoes are a healthy treat.
Avoid: Candied yams or sweet potato casseroles with added sugar, marshmallows, or butter.
3. Green Beans (Plain)
- Steamed or boiled green beans are a nutritious snack.
Avoid: Green bean casserole or anything seasoned with garlic or onions.
4. Pumpkin (Plain and Unseasoned)
- Pumpkin is great for digestion, but stick to plain cooked pumpkin or canned pumpkin with no added sugar or spices.
Avoid: Pumpkin pie filling, which often contains sugar, nutmeg, and other unsafe ingredients.
5. Mashed Potatoes (Plain and No Butter)
- If your mashed potatoes are plain and free from butter, cream, or garlic, they can be an occasional treat.
Avoid: Loaded mashed potatoes or those with any dairy or seasonings.
6. Apple Slices
- Fresh, plain apple slices are a crunchy, dog-approved snack.
Avoid: Apple pie, as it’s full of sugar and spices like cinnamon that aren’t healthy for dogs.
Foods Dogs Should NOT Eat on Thanksgiving
While the holiday spread might look harmless, there are several items that can cause serious health problems for your pup:
1. Stuffing and Casseroles
These dishes often contain onions, garlic, butter, or spices—all of which are toxic to dogs.
2. Cooked Bones
Turkey or ham bones may seem like a fun chew treat, but they can splinter and cause choking or digestive tract injuries.
3. Gravy and Sauces
These are typically high in fat and contain seasonings that can upset your dog’s stomach or worse.
4. Desserts (Especially Chocolate and Xylitol)
Chocolate is toxic to dogs, and xylitol (also labeled as birch sugar) can be deadly. Be extra careful with sugar-free desserts.
5. Alcohol
Even small amounts of alcohol can be extremely dangerous for dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and even respiratory failure.
6. Nutmeg and Spices
Nutmeg, found in pumpkin pie and other spiced dishes, can cause seizures and nervous system issues in dogs.
7. Fatty Foods (Like Turkey Skin or Ham)
High-fat foods can lead to pancreatitis, a serious and painful condition.
8. Onions and Garlic
Commonly found in stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasoning blends, these are toxic to dogs and can damage their red blood cells.
Tips for a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving with Your Dog
1. Prepare a Doggy Plate
Set aside some safe, plain ingredients like turkey or sweet potatoes before you add seasonings and sauces. This way, your pup can enjoy a mini feast with the rest of the family!
2. Avoid Counter-Surfing Mishaps
Keep plates, leftovers, and trash out of reach. Curious noses can get into trouble quickly when delicious smells are involved!
3. Have a Plan for Accidents
If your dog eats something toxic, call your vet or an emergency pet poison hotline immediately.
4. Share the Love (Safely)
A Thanksgiving-themed dog treat or toy can be a wonderful way to include your dog in the festivities without risking their health.
Thanksgiving is a time for making memories, enjoying good food, and appreciating loved ones—including our dogs. By being mindful of what’s safe for them to eat, you can ensure they stay healthy and happy while celebrating with the family.
From our family (two- and four-legged) to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!