As fun as it may be to have your dog join in on the Thanksgiving meal, not everything on the table is safe for them. Thanksgiving foods are rich, flavorful, and often loaded with ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. Some of the most common foods we associate with the holiday, like turkey skin, gravy, or stuffing, might upset your dog’s stomach or even cause health issues.
Foods to Keep Away from Your Dog
Certain Thanksgiving foods are simply too dangerous for dogs. Let’s break it down and look at some of the most common culprits you should avoid:
- Turkey bones and skin: While turkey meat is fine in moderation, turkey bones are a choking hazard, and turkey skin is loaded with fat, which could lead to digestive problems.
- Stuffing: Many stuffing recipes contain onions or garlic—two foods that are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
- Gravy: Most gravies are greasy and often contain ingredients like onions or excessive amounts of salt.
- Mashed potatoes: While not harmful in small amounts, mashed potatoes loaded with butter, cream, or garlic can upset your dog’s stomach.
If your dog happens to sneak a bite or two of these, it’s important to watch for signs of distress and consult your vet if you’re concerned.
Safe, Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Treats
Good news: There are plenty of Thanksgiving treats you can share with your dog! By sticking to safe ingredients, you can offer your dog something special without the worry of harming their health. Here are a few options that are safe for dogs:
- Plain cooked turkey meat: A small portion of lean turkey meat, without skin, bones, or seasoning, is a great option.
- Carrots or green beans: Fresh vegetables like carrots and green beans are not only nutritious but also easy on your dog’s stomach.
- Pumpkin puree: Pure pumpkin (without any added sugar or spices) is excellent for your dog’s digestion and packed with vitamins.
These safe alternatives will let your dog join in on the feast without any risk to their health.
Special Thanksgiving Dog Treats
Want to make the day extra special for your dog? Consider giving them some Thanksgiving-themed dog treats or even homemade goodies. Many pet stores carry festive treats for dogs around the holiday, including turkey-flavored biscuits and chew toys shaped like pumpkins or turkeys. But if you’re feeling crafty, you can also make your own!
Easy DIY Thanksgiving Dog Treats
If you love baking, why not make your dog a homemade Thanksgiving treat? Here’s a simple and healthy recipe for dog-friendly biscuits that will let your pup enjoy the flavors of the season.
Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (make sure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added spices)
- ½ cup unsweetened peanut butter
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg.
- Gradually add the flour until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and cut it into fun shapes using cookie cutters (think turkey shapes or festive holiday symbols).
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the biscuits are firm and golden.
These homemade treats will make your dog feel included and loved during the holiday.
Keeping Your Dog Safe During the Thanksgiving Chaos
Thanksgiving can be an overwhelming day for dogs. With the hustle and bustle of family, food, and guests, there’s a lot happening. While your dog might love all the attention, it’s important to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the day. Here are some tips to help your dog stay happy and stress-free during the holiday:
Watch Out for the Food Table
The Thanksgiving spread is a big temptation for dogs, with all those delicious smells floating around. You don’t want your dog jumping up on the table or sneaking bites of harmful foods. Make sure to either keep your dog in a separate room or have a designated area where they can hang out away from the food.
Keep Decorations Out of Reach
From candles to fall-themed decorations, Thanksgiving is full of festive items that can pose a danger to your dog. Make sure to place any decorations up high or out of your dog’s reach to avoid them chewing on something that could be harmful.
Provide a Quiet Space for Your Dog
With all the noise and activity, some dogs can get stressed or overwhelmed by the sheer number of people in the house. To avoid anxiety, set up a quiet spot where your dog can retreat if they need a break. Ensure they have fresh water, their favorite toys, and a comfortable bed to relax on.
Managing Dog Anxiety During Thanksgiving
For some dogs, large gatherings and loud noises can cause anxiety. If you know your dog gets nervous around crowds or unfamiliar situations, it’s worth considering some calming strategies to help them feel more at ease.
Calming Products
There are a variety of products available that may help calm your dog during stressful moments. Some popular options include:
- Calming sprays: These sprays often contain soothing scents like lavender or chamomile that can help relax your dog.
- Thundershirts: These snug vests apply gentle pressure to your dog’s body, providing a calming effect similar to swaddling a baby.
- Distraction toys: Offering a chew toy or puzzle can keep your dog engaged and distracted from the chaos around them.
If your dog is particularly sensitive, consult with your vet before trying any calming products to make sure they are safe and suitable for your pet.
Exercise and Playtime for Dogs on Thanksgiving
Although Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence, don’t forget that your dog still needs exercise to stay healthy. Over the course of a busy holiday, your dog’s energy levels can build up, and without proper activity, they may become restless. A good play session or walk will help them burn off excess energy.
Post-Feast Walks
After the big meal, it’s a great idea to take your dog for a walk. A leisurely stroll around the block will not only help your dog digest the food they’ve had but also give you a break from the busy festivities. A walk is an excellent opportunity for both you and your dog to get some fresh air.
Playtime with Your Dog
Thanksgiving isn’t just about food; it’s also a time to bond with your pet. Consider taking some time out of your day to play a game of fetch or tug-of-war with your dog. It’s a simple way to show them love and affection while also keeping them physically active.
Tips for Feeding Your Dog on Thanksgiving
If you want to treat your dog to a special Thanksgiving meal, it’s essential to do so with caution. Even though it’s tempting to give them a bit of your holiday meal, moderation is key. Here are some best practices for feeding your dog during Thanksgiving:
Stick to Small Portions
When offering your dog Thanksgiving foods, keep the portions small. A small piece of turkey or a few green beans is plenty. If you feed your dog too much, especially rich or fatty food, it could lead to an upset stomach or more serious digestive issues.
Skip the Leftovers
While it’s tempting to give your dog leftovers from your plate, it’s best to avoid them. Leftover foods are often seasoned or cooked in a way that makes them harmful to dogs. Also, leftovers may include ingredients that are not safe, like onions, garlic, or excessive salt.
Check Ingredients Carefully
Before offering any pre-packaged treats or food, always check the labels for any ingredients that might be harmful to your dog. Even seemingly innocent foods like canned vegetables or baked goods can contain additives that are dangerous to pets.
Keeping Traditions Alive
Incorporating your dog into Thanksgiving doesn’t always have to involve food. Consider making new traditions, like taking a family photo with your dog dressed in a festive holiday scarf or sweater. Or, if your dog enjoys a good walk, perhaps plan a scenic stroll through a local park after your meal. These simple moments of bonding will make the day memorable for both you and your pet.
Thanksgiving is about gratitude, and our dogs certainly deserve plenty of appreciation. They’re always there to offer love, companionship, and joy, and taking the time to make their day special shows just how much they mean to you.
By keeping the focus on safety, fun, and togetherness, Thanksgiving can truly be a holiday for the entire family—furry members included!
Conclusion: A Safe and Happy Thanksgiving for Dogs
While Thanksgiving is often a time to indulge in rich foods and festive treats, it’s important to remember that our dogs rely on us to make responsible decisions about what they consume. As much as we’d love to share our delicious holiday meals with them, we need to stick to dog-friendly options that are both safe and healthy. Thankfully, with a little creativity, you can find ways to include your dog in the celebration without jeopardizing their health.
By following a few simple guidelines—avoiding harmful foods, providing safe treats, managing anxiety, and offering plenty of exercise—you can ensure your dog has just as much fun as the rest of the family. With a little planning, Thanksgiving can be a joyous occasion for both you and your dog. So, get ready to share the love and make this holiday memorable for your four-legged friend!
