Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, delicious food, and expressing gratitude. It's also a time when many dog parents want to share the joy with their pups. While including your dog in the festivities can be wonderful, it's essential to be cautious about what foods you offer them. Keep reading as we explore some fall Thanksgiving foods that your dog can and cannot eat to ensure your pup stays safe and healthy during this holiday season.
Foods Your Dog Can Enjoy:
- Turkey
Turkey is often the star of the Thanksgiving table, and your dog can partake in this tradition too. Plain, cooked turkey meat, without any bones or seasoning, is safe for dogs.
- Green Beans
Green beans are a healthy and dog-friendly vegetable that can make a great addition to your pup's Thanksgiving plate. Steamed or blanched green beans, without any added salt or seasonings, are a safe and nutritious treat for your dog.
- Squash
Squash, such as plain, cooked butternut or acorn squash, is an excellent choice for your dog. Squash is rich in vitamins and fibre, making it a healthy and tasty option for your furry friend.
- Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a fall favourite, and it's also great for dogs. Plain, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is a fantastic source of fibre and can help with digestion in dogs. It can be served in small amounts as a treat or mixed with their regular food.
- Giblets
Giblets, including the heart, liver, and gizzard, can be given to your dog in moderation. However, make sure they are cooked thoroughly without any seasoning or added ingredients. If feeding the neck make sure to not feed any cooked bones. These organ meats are nutrient-dense and can be a tasty, occasional addition to your dog's meal.
- Cranberries
Fresh or frozen cranberries are safe for dogs in small amounts. They are packed with antioxidants and can be a healthy treat when offered sparingly. You can even use cranberries as a natural, dog-friendly garnish for their meal. Avoid cranberry sauce which is filled with sugar.
- Apples
Apples are a wonderful, crunchy treat for dogs. Remove the seeds and core, and offer small, sliced pieces of apple to your furry friend. Apples are a good source of vitamins and fibre, making them a nutritious choice.
Foods Your Dog Should Avoid:
- Gravy
Gravy is usually loaded with salt, fat, and seasonings that can be harmful to your dog's digestive system. It's best to keep the gravy for the human dinner table and not share it with your four-legged friend.
- Turkey Bones
Turkey bones, especially cooked ones, can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries to your dog. Ensure that any bones are disposed of safely, away from your pet's reach.
- Stuffing
Stuffing often contains ingredients like onions, spices, and sometimes raisins, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, the high-fat content in stuffing can lead to digestive upset or even pancreatitis in dogs.
- Pumpkin Pie Filling
While plain canned pumpkin is safe for dogs, pumpkin pie filling is loaded with sugar and spices that can be harmful. Stick to the plain variety for your pup's enjoyment.
- All Types of Spices
Spices like onions, nutmeg, and other common Thanksgiving seasonings can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Keep dishes seasoned with these ingredients far away from your dog's reach.
Dog Child Grain Free Meal Mix
Thanksgiving Recipes for your Dogs
If you’re looking for some fun holiday recipes that are safe for your dog. Here are a couple of our favourites.
Dog Turkey Cranberry Meatballs 
As a responsible dog parent, it's crucial to be mindful of what you share with your dog during the holiday season. While it's tempting to indulge them in the spirit of Thanksgiving, their safety and well-being should always be your top priority. Offering dog-friendly alternatives and treats is a great way to include your dog in the festivities without risking their health. Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal with your dog safely by your side, and both of you can have a wonderful holiday season together!
