Thanksgiving is a day where we gather together with loved ones and give thanks. It’s also a day where calories don’t count. But for our four legged friends, those same rules don’t apply.
Unfortunately, not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for your dog’s consumption. Some can be extremely dangerous. However, there are some foods found on the dinner table that can be delicious and safe for your dog - in small portions, of course.
Before giving your dog all the table scraps, browse our list of Thanksgiving foods your dog can and can’t eat.
Note: What’s okay for one dog is not always going to be okay for another. Before giving your dog new food (especially people food) please check with your veterinarian.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Can Eat
Green Beans
“Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned—all types of green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain,” (American Kennel Club, 2022). When served without salt, other seasonings, and butter, this vegetable is not only acceptable to give dogs, but vet-recommended! They contain high levels of vitamins and dietary fibers, as well as low-calorie!
Apples
“Apples are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants”(American Kennel Club, 2024). This makes them a healthy food for dogs. However, it's important to remember to remove the seeds and core before offering apples to your furry friend. Slices of apple make for a crunchy treat that many dogs enjoy, and they can also help freshen your dog's breath!
Cranberries
“Both fresh and dried cranberries are safe to feed dogs in small quantities”(American Kennel Club, 2022). Cooked or raw, cranberries are a safe and healthy treat to give your four-legged friend.
Some unsafe forms of cranberries to stay away from include:
Dried cranberries mixed with other dried fruits like raisins
Canned cranberries, cranberry juice, and cranberry sauce that have high levels of sugar
Sweet Potatoes
Minus the marshmallows and sugar, sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and other health benefits. You may even see sweet potatoes in the ingredients of some dog treats! You can serve them mashed, cubed, or even as a baked treat. Just make sure they are plain and free from added sugars or spices.
Turkey (Without Skin & Bones)
Unseasoned turkey meat without the skin and bones is A-ok to give your pup. While many feel it’s a “natural” thing to give their dog, turkey bones can be a huge choking hazard. As for the turkey skin, this holds all the butter, oil, and fat content that can lead to digestive issues.
Carrots
Completely plain, unseasoned carrots are an excellent source of dietary fiber, making them safe for your dog. Dogs can eat carrots without salt, seasonings, or butter. You can serve them raw, steamed, or even cooked, but be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
Pumpkin (Fresh & Pure Pumpkin Puree)
“Plain, canned pumpkin is the healthiest choice for your dog. Both fresh and canned pumpkin are good sources of nutrients and fiber…”(American Kennel Club, 2024). Pumpkin has several health benefits, and can be used to ease digestion issues like diarrhea.
You can even make your own homemade dog treats using pumpkin!
Before feeding your pup pumpkin, make sure it doesn’t contain any sugar or other harmful ingredients.
Thanksgiving Food Your Dog Can’t Eat
Did you know that emergency vet visits for pets rapidly increase on Thanksgiving due to pets eating unsafe foods? This is the last thing you want happening.
To prevent this, take time to carefully read the listed human foods that are unhealthy and possibly toxic to dogs.
Ingredients to Avoid Feeding Your Dog
Vegetables: Onions, Scallions, Garlic
Fruits: Grapes and Raisins
Gravy, Butter, and Oil
Spices
Chocolate and Sugar
Xylitenol and other “sugar-free” chemicals
Alcohol or Caffeine
Thanksgiving Meals to Avoid Feeding Your Dog
Turkey Bones, Skin, and Gravy
Ham
Stuffing
Casseroles
Mashed Potatoes
Mac & Cheese
Corn Pudding
Cranberry Sauce
Any desert
Learn more about toxic human foods to avoid feeding your dog.
Before Thanksgiving dinner commences, be sure to feed your dog their food and keep those harmful ones out of reach. It’s a good idea to ask guests not to feed the dog any human food. Also, remind them to be careful where they put their plates and cups. Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving from Golden Puppies!
For more tips on keeping your pets healthy and happy during the holidays, check out our blog on Holiday Safety Tips.
This blog is provided for general informational purposes only and does not represent health or professional advice. Before giving your dog new food (especially people food) please check with your veterinarian first. If you believe your pet is in distress or has ingested something harmful, immediately contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline.
References
American Kennel Club. (August 25, 2022). Can Dogs Have Green Beans?. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-have-green-beans/
American Kennel Club. (March 26, 2024). Can Dogs Eat Apples?. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-apples/
American Kennel Club. (November 7, 2022). Can Dogs Eat Cranberries?. Retrieved from
American Kennel Club. (March 26, 2024). Can Pumpkin Help With Dog Diarrhea?. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-pumpkin-help-with-dog-diarrhea/
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