Giving Thanks: Celebrating Thanksgiving with Dog Safe Feasts

Thanksgiving: A time for gratitude and sharing. As we gather to reflect on what we're most thankful for, one of my biggest blessings—like many of you dog moms—has to be my angel, Marlee!  Thanksgiving isn’t just about us; it’s also a chance to show a little extra love to those who bring us unconditional joy, like our dogs.

While our pups can’t enjoy everything on our Thanksgiving plates, they can safely savor some of the feast with us. Sharing a meal (in moderation!) is a fun way to include them in the festivities.

Here’s a list of dog-safe Thanksgiving foods you can add to their bowl for a special treat and celebration:

1. Turkey

   
   

   

   
   

   Plain, cooked turkey meat is safe, but make sure to avoid the skin, seasoning, and bones.

   
   

2. Sweet Potatoes

   
   

   Plain and cooked, without added butter, sugar, or marshmallows

   
   

3. Green Beans

   
   

   

   
   

   Great if served cooked or boiled, outside of casseroles

   
   

4. Carrots

   
   

   

   
   

   Raw or cooked, without any added butter or spices

   
   

5. Pumpkin

   
   

   Plain canned pumpkin or cooked pumpkin (no sugar, spices, or pie filling)

   
   

6. Peas

   
   

   Plain and cooked, fresh or frozen (not canned, as it often contains added salt)

   
   

7. Potatoes

   
   

   

   
   

   Plain, cooked white potatoes (no butter, milk, or seasoning)

   
   

8. Apples

   
   

   

   
   

   Raw or cooked, but remove the seeds and core

   
   

9. Cranberries

   
   

   

   
   

   Fresh or dried in small quantities, as long as there’s no added sugar or sweeteners like xylitol

   
   

Some foods that you are going to want to avoid include: 

1. Stuffing

   
   

   Are usually contain onions, garlic, and spices that are toxic to dogs

   
   

2. Gravy

   
   

   

   
   

   Gravy is high in fat and often seasoned which can be unsafe for dogs

   
   

3. Desserts

   
   

   

   
   

   Best to stay away from considering most of them have high amounts of sugar, artificial sweetener, or chocolate

4. Turkey bones

   
   

   These can splinter and cause internal injury

   
   

5. Buttered or spiced dishes

   
   

   

   
   
   
   

Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and of course, quality time with friends, family, and your amazing dogs!  I’d love to hear how you’re celebrating this special day—drop a comment and let me know your plans or what you're most excited about as we head into the holiday season.

.

.

.

.

Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian or a professional pet expert. Before introducing any new foods or activities to your pet, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian or a trusted trainer. Remember to supervise your pets closely when trying new foods to ensure their safety and well-being.