Thanksgiving Foods Your Pup Can (and Can’t) Enjoy

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and of course, indulge in delicious food! For pet owners, it’s only natural to want to include your four-legged family members in the celebration.

But while your pup’s pleading eyes might make it hard to resist sharing from your plate, not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs. Knowing what’s safe and what to avoid is key to keeping your pup happy and healthy this holiday season!

 

 

Foods Your Pup Can Safely Enjoy

The good news? Many Thanksgiving staples can be safe and nutritious for your dog—when prepared properly. Here are some foods to feel good about sharing:

• Turkey (Plain, White Meat Only): A Thanksgiving classic that’s high in protein. Make sure it’s cooked without seasoning and free of skin or bones, which can be hazardous.

• Sweet Potatoes: These are a superfood for dogs, loaded with vitamins and fiber. Serve them plain—no sugary toppings or marshmallows.

• Green Beans (Plain): A crunchy, low-calorie snack, plain green beans are packed with vitamins and safe for dogs to munch on.

• Pumpkin (Plain, Cooked): A wonderful treat for digestion. Skip the pie version and stick with plain, unseasoned pumpkin puree.

• Carrots: Raw or cooked, carrots are a crunchy treat full of beta-carotene and vitamins. Just avoid adding butter or sugar.

• Apples: A great source of vitamins and fiber—just make sure to remove the seeds and core.

• Peas: Cooked, plain peas (without butter or salt) are a tasty and nutritious addition.

• Plain Rice or Quinoa: Both can be gentle on a dog’s stomach and provide a boost of energy.

These healthy options can be served in moderation to let your pup feel included in the feast without compromising their health!

 

 

Foods to Keep Off Their Plate

While some dishes are safe, many Thanksgiving staples can pose serious risks to your dog. Keep these foods out of reach:

• Turkey Skin, Gravy, and Bones: The skin is too fatty and can upset your dog’s stomach, while gravy often contains onions and spices that are toxic to dogs. Bones can splinter, leading to choking or internal injuries.

• Stuffing: Often loaded with onions, garlic, and seasonings, stuffing is a no-go for pups.

• Mashed Potatoes with Butter, Cream, or Garlic: While plain potatoes are fine, rich add-ins can cause stomach upset.

• Cranberry Sauce: High in sugar and sometimes containing raisins, which are toxic to dogs.

• Desserts: Chocolate, raisins, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol are all dangerous for dogs, making most holiday desserts unsafe.

Even small amounts of these foods can lead to serious health issues, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

 

 

How to Include Your Pup in the Celebration

If you want your dog to join the Thanksgiving fun, consider making them their own festive plate! You can combine plain turkey, green beans, and sweet potatoes into a delicious meal just for them. For an extra special treat, try serving a dollop of plain pumpkin puree for dessert.

Be sure to remind your guests not to sneak scraps under the table. Well-meaning friends and family might not realize the potential dangers of certain foods. It’s also wise to keep your trash can secure—many dogs are experts at dumpster diving, especially when holiday leftovers are involved!

 

 

Make Thanksgiving a Day of Gratitude for All

Thanksgiving is about sharing joy with those we love, and that includes our pets. By offering safe, dog-friendly treats and keeping harmful foods out of reach, you can ensure your pup stays healthy and happy during the holiday. And while they may not understand the meaning of Thanksgiving, the tail wags and excited barks will say it all: they’re thankful for you, too.

This holiday, create memories that include your furry friend while keeping them safe. After all, a happy pup makes the season even brighter!