Thanksgiving is just around the corner. And soon, families will gather around massive spreads of food and pause to give thanks. But some have a harder time than others ignoring those big, doggy eyes peering from underneath the table. Stop yourself before you toss a bite into the waiting jaws of your pupper. And first, ask yourself, “What Thanksgiving foods can dogs eat?”.
It’s tempting to share, but even a few bites of the wrong food can result in tummy aches, diarrhea, or worse. Thankfully, it’s possible to choose safe Thanksgiving foods for dogs. Keep reading to learn more!
Thanksgiving Food For Dogs That Are Generally Safe
While these foods are generally considered safe for dining with your doggo, every dog is different. Give Thanksgiving tidbits in moderation and be sure to do your own research to prevent digestive upset.
Turkey
Boneless, skinless, unseasoned turkey is generally fine if given in small quantities. If you’re brining or deep-frying your bird, skip the turkey. Instead, opt for passing your dog a special treat. Our Chicken Breast & Sweet ‘Tater Fillets may very well fit the bill! They’re made with human-grade chicken and are wheat-free.
Cranberries
Don’t confuse cranberries with cranberry sauce when preparing Thanksgiving food for dogs. Cranberry sauce, canned or homemade, has way too much sugar to be safe. Stick to dried or fresh berries, if any. The verdict will be two paws up or a look of disgust. There’s no middle ground with cranberries!
Green Beans
Green bean casserole is a staple for most Turkey Day spreads. Green beans can be a great, crunchy treat for our 4-legged pals. But the casserole variety will likely cause stomach issues. Opt for fresh, steamed, frozen, or canned green beans instead. Unseasoned too. When you’re trying to remember what Thanksgiving foods can dogs eat – go plain with green beans!
Sweet Potatoes
Ah, the sweet potato. This root veggie is really in right now. Why? Probably due to its reputation for containing many vitamins and minerals. Sweet potatoes can be a great high-fiber Thanksgiving food for dogs. If your holiday sweet potatoes are hiding under marshmallows, skip them. Instead flip Fido some of our Sweet ‘Tater Fries. Just one ingredient makes up this perfect treat.
Corn
Is corn a good Thanksgiving food for dogs? Tiny amounts of corn are generally okay. NEVER give your pup corn on the cob or buttered corn, though. And forgo corn casserole. Instead opt for a tidbit of unsalted canned or frozen corn.
Pumpkin
When you asked, “What Thanksgiving foods dogs can eat?”, your mind may have gone straight to pumpkins. After all, some vets recommend pumpkin to help with diarrhea or constipation. Only a few tablespoons are recommended, though. And that’s not a celebration! Since pie is off the table, a few Sweet ‘Tater Bones may better satisfy Rover’s sweet tooth. Save the pie for the humans.
Apples
Apples are a great Thanksgiving food for dogs. Just not the ones in Mom’s apple pie. Before making your recipe, set a few slices aside for that good boy or girl. But leave out the stems and seeds.
Food That Are Definitely A No-Go On Thanksgiving
If you’re having a ruff time deciding what Thanksgiving foods for dogs are okay, you’re not alone. Here’s some of the “absolutely no’s” to watch out for:
- Turkey Skin: Can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, pancreatitis
- Turkey Bones: Potential choking hazard
- Turkey Gravy & Drippings: Upset stomach and diarrhea can occur
- Stuffing: Herbs, spices, and butter cause stomach upset
- Mashed Potatoes: Butter, salt, and milk cause cause tummy troubles
- Raw Potatoes: Contain toxic solanine
- Sage: Not every pup can tolerate
- Garlic & Onion: Belong to the Allium species of veggies and are toxic to dogs
- Nutmeg: Very toxic to dogs
- Mushrooms: Some can be toxic for dogs
- Butter: Can cause upset stomach or diarrhea
- Bread Dough: Raw dough converts to ethanol, which can produce alcohol toxicity
- Artificial Sweeteners: Xylitol can drop blood sugar and lead to liver failure
- Pies & Cookies: Source of vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues
- Corn On The Cob: A choking hazard that can cause serious intestinal blockages
- Pecans: Can lead to an upset stomach
- Raisins: Known to be highly toxic and can cause kidney failure
- Nutmeg: Contains a highly toxic chemical known as myristicin
- Chocolate: Contains the toxic alkaloid compound theobromine
Safety Tips For Dogs On Thanksgiving
Now that you have a few do’s and don’ts when choosing Thanksgiving food for dogs, here are some tips for enjoying a perfect holiday meal:
- Stop every guest at the door. Have them swear that no table scraps or other culinary yummies will be directed towards that adorable fur-face!
- Trash belongs in the trash. If in question, guests should be directed to eat anything they don’t toss in the bin.
- Your house does not have open borders. Put a string of bells on any doors to the outside to remind guests to keep them closed. Today isn’t the day for a doggy jailbreak!
- Your pup’s good sense is ALWAYS overruled by the tummy. Turkey fryers are usually on Rover-level. Even a lick is disastrous. Place a barrier around the fryer to protect all pups.
- Thanksgiving can be hard for your furry friend. New smells, people, and chaos not created by them can be confusing. As much as possible, stick to their normal routine.
Don’t forget to make Turkey Day special for your doggo. Our puppers are the definition of thankful. Keep a supply of Blue Ridge Naturals quality treats on hand. After all, supplying a yummy treat is a fun way to show them how thankful you are for them!
