Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food! If you’re a pet parent, you might find yourself wondering what Thanksgiving foods you can safely share with your dog. While it’s fun to include your furry friend in the holiday, some Thanksgiving dishes contain ingredients that aren’t dog-friendly. Here’s a guide to what foods your dog can safely enjoy at the table, along with a few that are best kept off their plate!
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
Your dog can safely join in on the holiday feast with a few simple, unseasoned options. Here are some of the most popular Thanksgiving foods you can share with your pup:
1. Turkey (Plain, No Skin or Bones)
Turkey is a Thanksgiving staple and a great source of lean protein for your dog. Just be sure to give them a few bites of plain, cooked turkey without the skin, seasonings, or gravy. Remove any bones, as they can splinter and pose a choking risk.
2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as fiber and potassium, which makes them a nutritious choice for dogs. Serve them plain, either baked or boiled, and avoid giving your dog any sweet potatoes with added butter, marshmallows, or sugar.
3. Green Beans
Low in calories and high in fiber, green beans are another healthy option for your pup. Steamed or cooked plain green beans are the way to go—just avoid any seasonings or sauces that might contain garlic or onions.
4. Carrots
Carrots are a great crunchy treat for dogs, and they’re full of fiber and vitamins. You can serve them raw, steamed, or cooked. Just be sure to cut them into small pieces, especially for smaller dogs.
5. Pumpkin (Plain, Cooked, or Canned)
Pumpkin is a fantastic source of fiber that’s gentle on dogs’ digestive systems. Use plain pumpkin purée or cooked pumpkin, but skip the pumpkin pie filling, which usually has added sugars and spices. A spoonful or two is plenty!
6. Apples
Apples make a sweet, crunchy treat that’s high in vitamins A and C. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, as apple seeds contain cyanide and can be harmful to dogs. Plain apple slices are a great way for them to join in on dessert!
7. Plain Mashed Potatoes
Plain mashed potatoes (without butter, cream, or salt) can be safe for dogs. Potatoes contain important nutrients like vitamin C and fiber, but keep portions small to avoid tummy troubles.
8. Cranberries (Plain, Not Sweetened)
Plain, unsweetened cranberries in small amounts are okay for dogs and provide antioxidants. Avoid cranberry sauce, as it often contains sugar or added ingredients like grapes, which are toxic to dogs.
Foods to Avoid
While it might be tempting to let your dog try everything on the table, certain Thanksgiving foods are unsafe for them and can lead to serious health problems. Here are some foods to keep away from your dog’s plate:
- Stuffing and casseroles – These dishes often contain onions, garlic, butter, and herbs, which are toxic to dogs.
- Turkey bones and skin – Bones can splinter and cause choking or digestive injuries, while the skin often contains high levels of fat and seasoning.
- Gravy and sauces – These are typically high in fat and salt, which can be harmful to your dog’s digestive system.
- Desserts like pies and chocolate – Chocolate is toxic to dogs, and the sugar in most desserts is harmful to their health. Also, avoid anything with artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving Meal
While sharing some holiday treats with your dog can be a great bonding experience, keep these tips in mind for a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving:
- Portion Control: Thanksgiving foods can be rich, so keep portions small to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.
- Introduce New Foods Slowly: If it’s your dog’s first time trying some of these foods, start with just a small piece to make sure they don’t have an adverse reaction.
- Skip the Seasonings: Dogs are sensitive to ingredients we often add to food. Make sure the food you’re giving them is plain.
- Keep Trash Out of Reach: After the meal, make sure all food scraps and packaging are secure so your dog doesn’t get into anything harmful.
A Special Thanksgiving Treat for Your Dog
If you’re feeling inspired, you can create a simple Thanksgiving meal just for your dog! Try mixing a small portion of turkey with plain mashed sweet potatoes, a spoonful of pumpkin, and some steamed green beans for a festive, pet-safe holiday plate. Your dog will feel included, and you’ll know they’re eating something safe and nutritious.
In Summary
Thanksgiving can be a fun holiday for everyone in the family, including your furry friends. By sticking with a few simple, pet-friendly foods and avoiding the ingredients that can harm them, you can ensure your dog has a safe and tasty Thanksgiving right alongside you.
With a little preparation, you can make this holiday one your dog will be thankful for!