Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Can Enjoy Safely
Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and indulging in delicious food. For many of us, this includes our furry family members, who are just as much a part of the festivities as anyone else! While not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs, plenty of holiday favorites can be shared in moderation, allowing your pup to join in the feast without the worry. Here’s a guide to Thanksgiving foods dogs can eat and enjoy, plus tips for serving them so everyone has a healthy, happy holiday!
1. Turkey: The Star of the Meal
Turkey is the main attraction on most Thanksgiving tables, and it’s generally safe for dogs to enjoy in moderation. Turkey is high in protein making it a great Thanksgiving food for dogs and can be a healthy treat if served plain, without the skin, seasonings, or gravy. Gravy and seasonings can contain onions, garlic, and excess fat that may upset a dog’s stomach. Also, opt for white meat, as it’s leaner and easier for dogs to digest.
How to serve it: Offer a few pieces of plain, cooked turkey breast as a treat. Make sure it’s free from bones, as whole cooked poultry bones can splinter and cause blockages or internal injuries.
2. Sweet Potatoes: A Nutrient-Rich Superfood
Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins (A, B6, C), and minerals like potassium and manganese, making them a fantastic, dog-friendly option. When prepared simply, without added butter, sugar, or marshmallows, sweet potatoes make a healthy and delicious Thanksgiving side dish for dogs.
How to serve it: Boil or bake sweet potatoes until soft, then mash or cut them into small pieces for your dog. Skip any seasoning and serve a small portion to keep their calorie intake balanced.
3. Green Beans: Low-Calorie and Full of Fiber
Green beans are a low-calorie, fiber-rich veggie that many dogs love. They’re also a great source of vitamins C, K, and manganese. Dogs can eat them cooked or raw, so long as they aren’t prepared with butter, salt, or any other seasonings they are a healthy option dogs can eat on Thanksgiving.
How to serve it: Steam or blanch green beans to soften them, then serve a few on their own or mixed in with their regular food. Avoid green bean casserole, as it often contains ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs.
4. Pumpkin: Perfect for Digestion
Pumpkin is a fantastic ingredient for dogs and an ideal dog food for Thanksgiving, especially when it comes to promoting healthy digestion. It’s full of fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins A and C, making it a great tummy soother. Plain canned pumpkin (without added sugar or spices), or fresh, cooked pumpkin works well.
How to serve it: Serve a spoonful or two, of plain canned pumpkin or cooked pumpkin as a side dish. It can also be mixed in with their regular meal for a special Thanksgiving dish with added flavor and nutrients.
5. Carrots: Crunchy and Vitamin-Packed
Carrots are a crunchy, low-calorie treat that’s high in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making them perfect for pups. Dogs can eat carrots raw or cooked, but if you’re serving them cooked, remember to avoid adding butter, salt, or other seasonings.
How to serve it: Chop raw carrots into bite-sized pieces or steam them to soften them up. Either way, they’ll make a healthy snack that your dog will love.
6. Cranberries: Tart and Full of Antioxidants
Cranberries are safe for dogs in small amounts and can be a tasty treat packed with antioxidants. They’re also known for promoting urinary health. However, cranberries can be quite tart, so not every dog will be a fan.
How to serve it: Offer a few fresh or cooked cranberries without added sugar. Avoid canned cranberry sauce, as it often contains high levels of sugar and other ingredients that aren’t suitable for dogs.
7. Apples: Sweet and Fiber-Rich
Apples are a sweet, fiber-rich fruit that can be a nice treat added to a dog’s Thanksgiving meal. They contain vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, as apple seeds contain cyanide, which can be harmful to dogs.
How to serve it: Slice a few pieces of apple and serve them plain. You can mix them into your dog’s food or serve them as a sweet snack during the holiday.
8. Plain Mashed Potatoes (In Moderation)
Plain, cooked potatoes (white or sweet) are generally safe for dogs if they’re not loaded with butter, cream, or garlic. Mashed potatoes in their simplest form can be a tasty treat for dogs, but only in small quantities, as they’re high in carbohydrates.
How to serve it: Offer a small spoonful of plain, mashed potatoes with no added butter, salt, or spices. Remember, moderation is key since potatoes are calorie-dense.
Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid
While it’s tempting to let your dog enjoy all the fixings, some traditional Thanksgiving foods are best kept off their plate. Here are a few common foods to avoid:
- Stuffing: Often contains onions, garlic, and spices, all of which can be toxic to dogs.
- Gravy: High in fat and often contains onions and garlic.
- Pies and Desserts: Many desserts contain sugar, chocolate, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Holiday Safety Tips for a Dog Happy Thanksgiving
- Stick to Small Portions: While many Thanksgiving foods are dog-friendly, it’s still best to offer small portions as treats. Avoid giving too much human food at once to prevent upset stomachs.
- Watch for Allergies: If you’re introducing new foods to your dog, keep an eye out for any signs of allergies or sensitivities. Foods that are generally safe can sometimes trigger reactions.
- Keep Trash Secure: Thanksgiving leftovers can be tempting, so ensure your dog can’t access trash bags or food scraps, which might contain harmful ingredients or bones.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving, share the love and some dog-safe foods with your furry friend. With a bit of care and attention, you can create a holiday that everyone enjoys, from the oldest family members to the four-legged ones. Including your dog in the celebration is a great way to show gratitude for their companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love. Here’s to a safe, delicious, and joyful Thanksgiving for everyone in the family.
