Thanksgiving for Your Dog: What’s on Their Plate (and What’s Off Limits)

Thanksgiving isn’t just a feast for humans—it’s a day your dog’s nose works overtime sniffing out all the delicious smells wafting from the kitchen. While it’s tempting to let your furry friend join the festivities, not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs. Don’t worry, though; we’ve got your guide to crafting a dog-friendly Thanksgiving feast that’ll have tails wagging without any tummy troubles.

Foods Your Dog Can Gobble Up

Here’s the good news: some Thanksgiving staples are perfectly safe—and even healthy—for your dog when served properly.

1. Turkey (Plain, Please!)
   Turkey is a protein-packed treat your dog will love. Stick to small pieces of plain, cooked turkey breast without the skin, bones, or seasoning. Keep the gravy and butter off their plate—it’s a no-go for their stomachs.

2. Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich favorite, but serve them plain. No marshmallows, brown sugar, or butter—those extras may be tasty for you but can upset your pup’s stomach.

3. Green Beans
   Plain, cooked green beans are a great source of fiber and vitamins for your dog. Just avoid the green bean casserole; the onions and creamy sauce are a big no.

4. Pumpkin
   Canned, unsweetened pumpkin (not the pie filling!) is a fiber-rich addition that’s great for digestion. A spoonful can go a long way in making your dog feel festive and full.

5. Cranberries
   Fresh or dried cranberries in moderation are okay, but avoid any that are mixed with sugar, sauces, or other additives.

Foods Your Dog Should Skip (Seriously, Just Don’t)

Now for the danger zone—here are the foods that belong anywhere but your dog’s plate.

1. Stuffing and Seasoned Foods
   Stuffing often contains onions, garlic, and spices that are toxic to dogs. Even if it smells irresistible, it’s a hard pass.

2. Mashed Potatoes
   While plain potatoes are fine, mashed potatoes loaded with butter, milk, cream, or cheese are a no-go. The high-fat content can upset their stomach and even cause pancreatitis in some cases.

3. Gravy and Fatty Foods
   Gravy may be the MVP of your Thanksgiving table, but the fat content can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive system. Skip the drizzles and give them plain turkey instead.

4. Desserts (Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate, etc.)
   Sweets are strictly off-limits. Chocolate is toxic, and most desserts contain sugar, artificial sweeteners, or spices like nutmeg that can harm your dog.

5. Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks
   This one’s obvious, but worth mentioning—no sips of wine, beer, or coffee for your pup. Stick to water, their ultimate hydration hero.

Bonus: Turkey & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe

• Shredded, plain cooked turkey breast

• Mashed, plain sweet potatoes

• A spoonful of plain canned pumpkin

Mix it all together and serve in your dog’s favorite bowl.

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Thanksgiving is a time to share the love, and that includes your dog. With a little planning and a lot of restraint (no sneaking them stuffing under the table!), you can treat your pup to a meal they’ll be thankful for. Just remember: plain, simple, and dog-approved is the way to go.

Because a happy, healthy dog is the ultimate holiday blessing!