Article: Surprising ‘Yes-Please’ and ‘Heck No’ Thanksgiving Foods for Your Dog
Surprising ‘Yes-Please’ and ‘Heck No’ Thanksgiving Foods for Your Dog
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, lots of delicious food. But as we fill our plates with seasonal favorites, it’s easy to wonder which treats are safe to share with our dogs—and which ones should be off-limits. While we love spoiling our furry family members, not all festive foods are created equal when it comes to canine safety.
Here’s a quick guide to the “yes,” “maybe,” and absolute “no” foods for your dog this Thanksgiving!
These dog-friendly treats will have tails wagging:
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Turkey (without skin or seasoning)
Plain, cooked turkey breast is a lean, protein-rich option for dogs. Just be sure to avoid the fatty skin, seasonings, and bones, which can pose choking hazards. -
Sweet Potatoes (plain)
Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber and vitamins, making them a great addition to your dog’s plate—just skip the butter, sugar, and marshmallow toppings. -
Green Beans (unseasoned)
Full of vitamins and low in calories, plain green beans are a nutritious snack for dogs. Make sure they’re free of butter, garlic, or other seasonings. -
Pumpkin (pure and plain)
Not just for pie! Pumpkin is excellent for digestion and is a great low-calorie treat. Stick to plain, canned pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling).
These foods can be safe for dogs, but only if given in moderation and without certain ingredients:
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Mashed Potatoes
Plain mashed potatoes (no butter, milk, or garlic) can be okay, but rich ingredients can upset your dog’s stomach. -
Apples
Apple slices are fine, but keep seeds and the core far away—they contain toxic cyanide. -
Bread or Rolls
A small piece of plain bread is fine, but too much can cause bloating. Avoid dough or bread with raisins, which are toxic to dogs.
These foods can be dangerous and should never be given to dogs:
- Stuffing and Gravy: Both are loaded with onions, garlic, and other seasonings that are toxic to dogs.
- Cranberry Sauce: While plain cranberries are fine, cranberry sauce often contains sugar, raisins, and sometimes alcohol, all harmful to pets..
- Pies and Desserts: Many desserts contain chocolate, xylitol, or high sugar content, all of which can cause serious health issues for dogs..
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous. Keep wine, beer, and cocktails far away from curious noses.
- Cooked Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Stick to dog-safe chews instead.
Tips for a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving
- Create a special plate: Make your dog feel included by setting aside safe foods they can enjoy.
- Avoid table scraps: It’s tempting to sneak your dog a treat from the table, but it’s safer to stick to foods you’ve confirmed are safe.
- Watch for signs of trouble: If your dog accidentally eats something toxic, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate and enjoy family—including our pups! With a little planning, you can share the joy of the holiday without putting your dog at risk. Stick to dog-friendly options, avoid toxic foods, and enjoy the festivities with your four-legged friend by your side.
Wishing you and your pets a safe, happy, and delicious Thanksgiving!
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