Thanksgiving is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and delicious food, but it’s important to know how to safely celebrate with your canine companion. With all the mouthwatering dishes on the table, it's tempting to share the feast with your dog. However, not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs. In this guide, we'll discuss which Thanksgiving foods your dog can and can't eat to help keep your pet safe during the holidays. If you're ever unsure or your dog consumes something questionable, call Cottner Creek Pet Clinic at (402) 334-5975 or request an appointment for further guidance.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Your Dog
While some holiday favorites are unsafe for dogs, there are a few foods you can share with your dog that are both healthy and tasty. It’s important to serve these foods plain, without added fats, seasonings, or sauces that may be harmful to your dog.
Turkey (Plain and Cooked)
Turkey is a great source of protein for dogs, and it's safe to share a small, plain portion with your pup. Make sure the turkey is fully cooked, free of seasonings, and remove any bones or skin, which can be dangerous. Turkey bones, in particular, pose a serious risk as they can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. When preparing your plate, set aside a small slice of unseasoned turkey for your dog to enjoy.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain vitamins A and C, and provide dietary fiber, which is great for digestion. If you'd like to offer sweet potatoes to your dog, make sure they’re cooked plain—skip the marshmallows, sugar, and butter. Roasted or boiled sweet potatoes make a perfect snack, but avoid serving sweet potato dishes with added toppings or seasonings.
Green Beans
Green beans are full of vitamins and fiber and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for pets watching their weight. Serve plain, steamed, or boiled green beans without any added salt, garlic, or butter.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a holiday staple, and it’s also beneficial for dogs. Canned or cooked plain pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling) can help regulate your dog’s digestive system. It’s high in fiber and beta-carotene, which supports eye health. You can add a spoonful of plain, cooked pumpkin to your dog’s regular meal to give them a taste of Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Can't Eat
While it’s tempting to share everything on your plate, some Thanksgiving foods pose serious health risks to dogs. Avoid feeding these common holiday dishes to your pet to prevent potential emergencies.
Stuffing
Stuffing typically contains onions, garlic, and herbs like sage—ingredients that can cause serious health problems for pets. Onions and garlic, even in small amounts, can lead to toxic reactions that damage your dog’s red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Keep stuffing off your dog’s menu and out of reach.
Gravy and Rich Sauces
Gravy is packed with fat and salt, both of which can be harmful to your dog’s health. High-fat foods can lead to gastrointestinal distress and even pancreatitis, a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary care. If you want to moisten your dog’s food, stick to plain turkey broth with no added seasonings or fat.
Mashed Potatoes with Butter and Cream
While plain, cooked potatoes are safe for dogs, the traditional holiday version of mashed potatoes is not. Mashed potatoes often contain butter, cream, or even garlic—all of which can upset your dog’s stomach. High-fat ingredients can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, pancreatitis. If you want to offer potatoes, serve a small portion of plain, boiled or roasted potatoes without any added ingredients.
Pies and Desserts
Many Thanksgiving desserts, like pumpkin pie and pecan pie, contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Spices like nutmeg and sugar substitutes like xylitol can be extremely harmful. Pecan pie, in particular, poses a threat because nuts are difficult for dogs to digest and can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Stick to dog-safe treats instead of sharing your dessert.
Watch Out for These Ingredients
Beyond the foods mentioned, there are a few other key ingredients to watch out for when it comes to Thanksgiving meals. These hidden dangers can appear in various dishes, so it’s important to know what to look for.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic, whether cooked or raw, are extremely toxic to dogs. They contain compounds that can cause oxidative damage to your dog’s red blood cells, leading to a serious condition called hemolytic anemia. Even small amounts can cause harm, so be vigilant about avoiding these ingredients.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is often used in pumpkin pies and spiced dishes, but it’s harmful to dogs. Nutmeg contains a toxin called myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, disorientation, and increased heart rate. Even though it’s often used in small amounts, it's best to keep anything spiced with nutmeg out of your dog’s reach.
Alcohol
While it may seem obvious, alcohol should never be given to dogs. Even small amounts of alcohol, found in food or beverages, can cause serious issues such as lethargy, vomiting, seizures, or worse. Make sure your dog doesn't have access to any alcoholic drinks or foods cooked with alcohol.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe During Thanksgiving
To keep your dog safe during Thanksgiving, it’s best to create a dog-friendly menu or offer them a portion of their regular food before the big meal. This can help reduce begging at the table and prevent accidental ingestion of harmful foods.
Set Up a Safe Space for Your Dog
With all the activity and excitement, Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for dogs. Setting up a quiet, safe space for your dog to relax can help keep them calm and prevent them from getting into food they shouldn’t. Make sure guests know not to feed your dog anything from the table unless it's a safe food you've approved.
Stick to Their Regular Diet
Even though it's a special occasion, it's important to maintain your dog's regular diet. Sudden changes in diet, especially with rich holiday foods, can upset your dog’s stomach. If you want to offer a holiday treat, stick to small portions of dog-safe foods or use a store-bought dog treat instead.
When Do You Need to Call the Vet?
If your dog consumes something they shouldn’t or shows signs of distress—such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy—it’s important to contact your vet immediately. In some cases, what your dog eats during Thanksgiving can lead to a serious emergency. For dog owners in Omaha, you can reach out to Cottner Creek Pet Clinic at (402) 334-5975 or request an appointment for any concerns. It’s always better to play it safe when it comes to your dog’s health.
How You Can Enjoy Thanksgiving with Your Dog
Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy with family, and that includes your dog! With a bit of planning, you can make the day special for your furry friend while avoiding potential hazards. By offering safe foods and providing a calm environment, you and your dog can share the holiday together without any worries. If you have any questions about what foods are safe for your dog this Thanksgiving, or if you need advice on how to handle a potential issue, don’t hesitate to contact Cottner Creek Pet Clinic. Call (402) 334-5975 to speak with our team or request an appointment today.
