Thanksgiving day is approaching us quickly in the United States! I’m sure you can hardly wait for a plate full of turkey, mashed potatoes & gravy, green bean casserole, and all the pumpkin pie you could possibly ask for.
You may even be tempted to let your furry friend in on all the good food, which is perfectly okay! You should just know which foods are safe and which are not before letting your dog in on the yummy goodness!
Keep reading below to learn what common Thanksgiving foods are safe or hazardous for your dog:
Safe Foods for Dogs on Thanksgiving
There are many foods we eat on Thanksgiving that are safe and even healthy for dogs. Let them dig in (in moderation of course)!
- Sweet potatoes/potatoes are great options for your furry friend on Thanksgiving. Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins B6 and C, they are also high in dietary fiber. Potatoes should be either boiled or baked with no additional spices or toppings.
- Turkey meat is okay for your dog to eat as long as there are no bones or skin (as the skin usually has seasonings & spices on it). Giving only the turkey meat, in moderation, is a great way to share the day with your dog.
- Apples are a healthy Thanksgiving treat for your furry friend. They are high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Make sure they are cut up into pieces and contain no seeds.
- Fresh peas are a great option for your dog on Thanksgiving, just be sure to avoid creamed peas as they are fatty and can upset your dog’s stomach.
- Pumpkin is a very healthy option to give your dog. It helps with their skin & coat, along with digestion. 100% canned pumpkin is best, with no additions.
- Fresh green beans are high in fiber, manganese, and vitamins C & K, making them a good option. Make sure they are plain green beans, and contain no additional spices or butter.
These foods are all great options for your dog to eat on Thanksgiving. Just be sure that they are not overstuffing themselves or eating any foods that contain fats, seasonings, spices, or butter.
Hazardous Foods for Dogs on Thanksgiving
There are many foods that are not healthy for your dog to eat on Thanksgiving. Emergency vet visits spike during the Thanksgiving season, and you want to avoid this at all costs. Don’t let your furry friend be sick on Thanksgiving day!
- Onions, scallions, and garlic
- Ham
- Stuffing
- Turkey bones and skin
- Yeast
- Mashed potatoes
- Casseroles
- Creamed vegetables
- Sweet desserts
- Alcohol
- Grapes and raisins
- Seasonings and spices
- Foods containing fat
If your dog eats any of these foods on Thanksgiving, make sure to keep an eye on them to make sure they’re okay. If they start seeming distant or acting differently than usual, seek medical attention quickly!
Conclusion
Overall, Thanksgiving should be a fun & exciting day for both you and your dog. Know which foods are safe for them and which are not! Their day can be filled with delicious foods (in moderation) as well, but it can also result in a vet visit if not controlled…
Make sure others know which foods are safe and which are not if you’re having guests over or are around others. Keep an eye out and make sure the day is great for you and your furry friend!
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
