A Pup's Thanksgiving Feast: Dog-Friendly Foods and Foods to Avoid

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious feasts. While many of us are eager to indulge in a bounty of mouthwatering dishes, you should be cautious in sharing your meal with your pup. To ensure that your furry friend enjoys a safe and delicious Thanksgiving, we've prepared a guide on dog-friendly foods they can savor and the ones to avoid during this festive holiday.  Remember to share these foods in very small doses and in a manner that ensures your pup’s manners stay intact! If your dog has any medical conditions, be sure to consult your veterinarian first as specific conditions can make foods unsafe for your pet that are safe for other dogs to eat. ​

Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Foods
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1. Turkey
Turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving table, and your dog can enjoy it depending on the other ingredients you used to make it. Plain, cooked turkey meat without any seasoning or bones is a great option. Some seasonings and common additions are poisonous to dogs so be sure to check that any ingredient you used to make the turkey delicious for humans is also safe for your pup (this includes rubs and marinades).

2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, when prepared plain and without added sugar or spices, are an excellent source of vitamins and fiber for dogs. You can share a small helping with your furry friend.

3. Plain Green Beans
Green beans are a healthy vegetable that your dog can nibble on. They are low in calories and provide essential nutrients.

4. Carrots
Carrots are another dog-friendly vegetable that can be a tasty and nutritious treat for your pup. Raw or lightly cooked, they make a crunchy and satisfying snack.  Again, it is important that they are not prepared with any additional ingredients. 

5. Plain Pumpkin
Plain, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is great for dogs. It's high in fiber and can help with digestion. Just ensure it's free from any added sugars or spices.

6. Apples (in moderation)
Apples are a tasty and crunchy treat for dogs when served in moderation. Be sure to remove the seeds and core as they contain cyanide, which can be harmful to dogs in smaller amounts than in humans because dogs are much smaller in size.
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7. Unseasoned Mashed Potatoes
Plain mashed potatoes without butter, salt, or other seasonings can be given to your dog in small amounts.

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Foods to Avoid

1. Stuffing
Stuffing typically contains onions, garlic, and various seasonings that can be toxic to dogs. It's best to keep it away from your pet.

2. Gravy
Gravy is often high in fat, salt, and seasonings, making it unsuitable for dogs. The richness can also lead to gastrointestinal issues.

3. Bones
Never give your dog turkey or chicken bones, as they can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages.

4. Desserts
Desserts like pies, cakes, and cookies are laden with sugar and ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Keep these treats out of reach.

5. Onions and Garlic
Both onions and garlic are toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. These ingredients can lead to serious health issues, including anemia.

6. Nuts
Nuts, such as macadamia nuts and walnuts, are toxic to dogs and can cause muscle tremors, weakness, and even seizures.

7. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Keep these fruits well away from your pup.

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Thanksgiving is a time for sharing and showing gratitude, and that can include our furry family members. While it's tempting to give your dog a taste of the Thanksgiving feast, it's crucial to be selective about what they consume. Stick to dog-friendly foods like plain turkey, sweet potatoes, and green beans, and avoid sharing any dishes that contain toxic ingredients or high levels of fat and sugar (or imitation sugars).  By following these guidelines, you can ensure your pup has a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving alongside the rest of the family.  

If you are concerned about monitoring all the different ingredients you can also pick up a special dog treat from your local pet store that your pup loves and allow them to snack on their treat while you enjoy your meal.

​Written By: Ashley Neutgens