As Thanksgiving approaches, many pet owners plan to share the holiday feast with their furry friends. However, before you hand over any table scraps, it’s important to know which foods are safe for dogs and which ones could pose serious health risks.
While the holiday is a time to show love and appreciation, pet experts emphasize that treats from the table should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, with the remaining 90% coming from their regular diet. If you’re unsure about the right portion sizes, the Pet Nutrition Alliance offers an interactive calculator to help determine the appropriate amount for your dog.
Foods to Avoid
Despite popular belief, not all foods associated with Thanksgiving are safe for your dog. In fact, some beloved holiday staples can be harmful or even toxic.
Turkey bones, while commonly used in dog food, should be strictly avoided. They can splinter and cause serious injury to your pet’s throat, stomach, or intestines. Even turkey meat, though a popular dog food ingredient, should be served without bones or skin.
Also on the “no-go” list are garlic, onions, and chives, which are toxic to dogs. These ingredients are often found in stuffing and other side dishes, so be cautious when sharing food. Pumpkin pie and sweet potato casserole are also off-limits due to the sugar, butter, and spices often used in these dishes.
In addition to these, cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes should be avoided, as they contain high levels of sugar, fat, salt, and acid, all of which can be harmful to your dog’s digestive system. And never feed your dog anything containing xylitol, a sweetener found in many foods and candies, as it is extremely toxic to dogs.
Foods Your Dog Can Enjoy
If you’d like to share the Thanksgiving spirit with your dog, it’s best to stick with simple, whole foods. The safest options include white meat turkey (without bones or skin), green beans, and sweet potatoes — just be sure these foods are served without added butter, sugar, or seasoning.
For a sweet treat, raw cranberries (unsweetened) can be a safe option, and pumpkin (without pie filling or added ingredients) is also a good choice. Both are nutritious and generally safe for dogs in moderation.
As always, it’s important to avoid giving your dog any food that could upset their stomach or lead to more serious health complications. While it’s tempting to include your pet in the holiday celebrations, taking precautions will help ensure your dog enjoys a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
By following these simple guidelines, you can share a few festive bites with your dog without risking a trip to the veterinarian. Just remember to keep it basic, avoid harmful ingredients, and your furry friend will have plenty to be thankful for.
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