What Thanksgiving Foods Can Your Dog Eat? A Guide to Safe Treats for Your Pup

Thanksgiving and Dogs: A Fun, But Cautious Celebration

Thanksgiving is a time to come together, indulge in delicious food, and make memories with loved ones—both two-legged and four-legged. As you sit down to enjoy your holiday meal, it’s tempting to want to share those tasty treats with your dog. But not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for your pup! Some foods that are perfectly fine for humans can be harmful to dogs, so it's essential to know what’s safe and what’s not.

So, what can your dog enjoy on Thanksgiving, and what should be kept off their plate? Let’s dive into some of the common Thanksgiving foods and whether they’re safe for your furry friend.

Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs

1. Turkey (Plain and Skinless): Turkey is the star of most Thanksgiving feasts, and yes, your dog can enjoy a little piece of plain, cooked turkey. Just make sure the turkey is unseasoned and free of any skin, as the skin can be too fatty and may cause digestive issues. Avoid turkey bones, as they can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause injury to your dog’s digestive tract.
2. Sweet Potatoes (Plain, Cooked): Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a great treat for your dog. As long as they’re cooked and plain (no added butter, sugar, or spices), sweet potatoes are a healthy option. You can mash them or slice them into small pieces for your pup to enjoy.
3. Carrots: Carrots are another healthy, dog-friendly vegetable that you can share with your pup. Raw or cooked, carrots are full of fiber and vitamins, making them a crunchy treat your dog will love. Just be sure to cut them into manageable pieces to avoid choking hazards.
4. Green Beans (Plain, Cooked): Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent snack for your dog. They’re also rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Be sure to cook them thoroughly and avoid adding salt, butter, or seasoning. Plain, steamed or boiled green beans are perfect for your dog.
5. Cranberry Sauce (In Moderation): Fresh cranberries can be a healthy treat for dogs in small amounts, as they provide antioxidants and vitamins. However, cranberry sauce often contains added sugar, which isn’t ideal for dogs. If you want to share some cranberry sauce, do so sparingly and make sure it doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid for Dogs

While sharing your Thanksgiving feast with your dog can be fun, some foods can be dangerous. Here are a few things to keep off your dog’s plate:

1. Stuffing: Stuffing often contains ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs, all of which can be harmful to dogs. Onions and garlic, in particular, can cause toxicity in dogs, leading to digestive upset and damage to red blood cells.
2. Mashed Potatoes (With Butter, Milk, and Seasoning): Mashed potatoes may seem harmless, but when they’re made with butter, milk, and spices, they can upset your dog’s stomach. Dairy can be hard for dogs to digest, and the added fats can cause pancreatitis or other digestive issues.
3. Gravy: Gravy typically contains salt, fat, and sometimes onions or garlic, all of which can be harmful to your dog. The high-fat content can lead to digestive upset or more serious health issues like pancreatitis.
4. Chocolate and Sweets: It goes without saying, but chocolate and other sweets (especially those containing xylitol) are toxic to dogs. Make sure your dog stays far away from desserts, as chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and even seizures.
5. Bones: While a meaty turkey bone might seem like a treat for your dog, it can be dangerous. Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or serious internal injuries. Always avoid giving your dog any bones from your Thanksgiving meal.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe During Thanksgiving

The holidays are a time for giving, but it’s essential to know your dog’s limits when it comes to food. If you want to treat your dog, stick to safe options like plain turkey, sweet potatoes, or carrots. Avoid giving them scraps from the table, and if you’re unsure whether something is safe, it's best to err on the side of caution.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your dog enjoys Thanksgiving without any stomachaches or health issues. After all, a healthy dog is a happy dog!

Is your dog ready for the holidays? If you’re ever unsure about your pet’s diet or need expert advice, contact PetVet Animal Hospital today at (317) 792-8919 or visit us at 14065 Mundy Dr, Fishers, IN 46038. Our team is here to keep your furry friend healthy and happy during Thanksgiving and beyond!

Enjoy a Safe Thanksgiving for Both You and Your Dog

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and joy, and with a little care, you can ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy while you celebrate. By choosing safe foods and avoiding harmful treats, you’ll be able to enjoy the festivities together without worry. Keep your dog’s well-being top of mind and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!