Can My Dog Eat This? A Guide to Safe (and Unsafe) Thanksgiving Foods 🦃
- Jacqueline Carr
- Nov 16
- 2 min read
Thanksgiving is all about good food, grateful hearts, and... dogs staring at you like they’ve never been fed a day in their life. And let’s be real — it’s hard to resist those puppy eyes under the dinner table.
But not all holiday foods are safe for your furry friend. Here’s your go-to guide for what’s fair game (and what to skip) when it comes to sharing your Thanksgiving feast with your pup.
✅ Safe Foods (In Moderation)
These can be great treats or toppers, as long as they’re served plain — no seasoning, butter, garlic, onions, or sauces!
🦃 Turkey (plain, boneless, skinless)
High in protein and totally dog-friendly when unseasoned. Skip the skin and avoid bones.
🥔 Sweet Potatoes
Packed with fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins — just serve cooked and plain (no marshmallows or sugar, please).
🥕 Carrots + Green Beans
Crunchy, low-cal snacks that many dogs love. Serve steamed or raw (but skip the green bean casserole).
🐾 Pumpkin (pure, canned—not pie filling!)
Great for digestion. A spoonful mixed into food can soothe upset stomachs.
🍎 Apples (no seeds or core)
Crisp, sweet, and full of fiber. A few thin slices make an easy treat.
🚫 Foods to Avoid Completely
These common Thanksgiving staples can be toxic or harmful to dogs, even in small amounts:
Stuffing – Usually full of onions, garlic, and butter = hard no
Gravy – High in fat and salt, can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis
Mashed Potatoes – Often loaded with butter, cream, and seasoning
Turkey Bones – Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or injury
Desserts – Chocolate, xylitol, nutmeg, and raisins = danger zone
Alcohol & Caffeine – Absolutely not — ever
🎁 Want to Include Your Dog in the Feast (Safely)?
Skip the scraps and give them a plate of their own with high-value, nutrient-dense treats that feel like something special:
Freeze-Dried Duck or Chicken Feet – Crunchy, satisfying, great for joints
Smelt or Sardines – Rich in Omega-3s for that shiny holiday coat
Dog-Friendly Truffle or Cookie Treats – Because dessert can be dog-safe
Toppl filled with pumpkin + freeze-dried organs – A puzzle and a meal topper all in one
🐶 Final Tips for a Safe + Happy Holiday
Let guests know not to feed your dog from their plate
Keep trash and leftovers out of reach
Make sure your pup has a quiet space to retreat if things get overwhelming
A long chew or puzzle toy can keep them calm and occupied during dinner
Give Thanks. Share Treats. Keep It Safe. 💛
Thanksgiving is better with dogs. With a little prep and the right treats, your pup can be part of the celebration without any unwanted trips to the vet.
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