Best Thanksgiving Food for Dogs

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, a delicious feast! As you prepare to enjoy your holiday meal, you might wonder if your dog can join in on the Thanksgiving fun. With a few thoughtful choices, you can safely share some holiday favorites with your furry friend, making Thanksgiving enjoyable for everyone at the table. Here’s a guide to dog-friendly Thanksgiving foods and tips to keep your dog safe this holiday season.

Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs

While many Thanksgiving dishes can be too rich or seasoned for dogs, some plain ingredients can be safe and even healthy for them. Here are a few Thanksgiving foods your dog can enjoy:

1. Turkey (Plain, Skinless, and Boneless)
   Turkey is a great source of protein, but make sure to offer it plain. Remove the skin, which is high in fat and hard to digest, and avoid giving any bones, as these can splinter and cause choking or digestive issues.

2. Sweet Potatoes
   Plain sweet potatoes, without added sugar, butter, or marshmallows, are a nutritious treat. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy option for dogs. Just serve them mashed or in small pieces.

3. Green Beans
   Plain, cooked green beans are low in calories and packed with vitamins. Avoid any green bean casserole, as ingredients like cream, onions, and garlic are toxic for dogs.

4. Pumpkin
   Pumpkin is a fiber-rich treat that can help with digestion. Plain canned pumpkin (not the pie mix) is a great way to include this holiday staple in your dog’s meal.

5. Carrots
   Carrots are a crunchy, low-calorie snack high in fiber and vitamins. Serve them cooked or raw in small pieces for a dog-friendly treat.

6. Apple Slices
   Apples (without seeds or the core) are safe for dogs and packed with fiber and vitamins. A few small apple pieces can be a refreshing and crunchy treat for your dog.

7. Cranberries
   Fresh or dried cranberries can be given in small amounts. Avoid cranberry sauce, which is often loaded with sugar and other ingredients unsafe for dogs.

Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid for Dogs

While there are safe options, certain Thanksgiving treats can be harmful or toxic to dogs. Make sure your dog stays away from the following:

• Stuffing – Often contains onions, garlic, and other seasonings harmful to dogs.
• Mashed Potatoes – Butter, cream, and garlic, common ingredients in mashed potatoes, can upset a dog’s stomach.
• Gravy – Gravy is typically too rich and often contains ingredients like onions and garlic that are toxic to dogs.
• Desserts – Many Thanksgiving desserts, including pies and cookies, are loaded with sugar, chocolate, or xylitol, all of which can be dangerous for dogs.
• Alcohol – Even a small amount of alcohol is toxic to dogs and can cause severe health problems.
• Bones – Turkey or ham bones can splinter and become a choking hazard or cause intestinal injuries.

Thanksgiving Treat Ideas for Dogs

Want to go the extra mile? Try these festive ideas to make your dog feel like part of the celebration:

• Turkey & Sweet Potato Dog Biscuits – Mix plain, cooked turkey and mashed sweet potatoes, form into small biscuits, and bake until firm.
• Pumpkin & Apple Mash – Combine a small amount of canned pumpkin with mashed apple pieces for a healthy and tasty side dish.
• Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Plate – Prepare a small plate with a few pieces of plain turkey, a spoonful of mashed sweet potatoes, and green beans for a mini Thanksgiving meal your dog will love.

Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving with Your Dog

• Watch for Overeating – Dogs can get excited about new foods, but overindulging can cause stomach upset or even pancreatitis. Stick to small portions of safe foods.
• Avoid Feeding from the Table – Keep foods for your dog separate to prevent them from accidentally eating something unsafe.
• Supervise Around Guests – Not everyone may know what foods are safe for dogs, so remind guests not to feed your dog table scraps.
• Keep Dangerous Foods Out of Reach – Dogs are often curious and may sneak food if left unattended. Be mindful of where you place plates and leftovers.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to share love and good food with family  including our furry family members. With a little planning, you can create a safe and enjoyable holiday for your dog, too. By sticking to dog-friendly foods and keeping harmful ingredients out of reach, you’ll ensure that your dog can enjoy the festivities without the risk. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your pup!