Thanksgiving is a time for food, football, and family—and for pet parents, this celebration includes your beloved pets. As we gather around the table to celebrate the holiday, our pets are often right there, eager to join in on the fun. But not all Thanksgiving treats are created equal when it comes to their health. Some foods are safe in moderation, while others can lead to an emergency vet visit. In this guide, our Maple Grove vet team will cover what’s safe to share, what to keep away, and tips to make this Thanksgiving dog-friendly and stress-free for everyone.
What Thanksgiving Foods Can My Dog Safely Eat?
While it might seem easiest to just say “no” to everything, there are actually some Thanksgiving staples that are safe and healthy for dogs. By sharing these simple, plain foods in small amounts, your furry friend can join in on the festivities without compromising their health. Here are some Thanksgiving foods your dog can eat:
- Turkey (plain, fully cooked, and boneless)
- Sweet potatoes (plain or baked, no added sugar or butter)
- Green beans (steamed, no seasoning)
- Pumpkin (plain, canned, or cooked)
- Apple slices (without seeds or core)
Note: Always keep portions small to prevent stomach upset.
Toxic Foods for Your Dog
The foods that bring us holiday joy can be tempting to share, but some Thanksgiving staples are downright dangerous for our pets. Our veterinarians recommend keeping these toxic Thanksgiving foods for dogs out of reach:
- Stuffing, which often contains onions, garlic, and other harmful seasonings.
- Turkey skin and bones, as bones can splinter, and skin is high in fat.
- Gravy, which is too rich for dogs’ stomachs.
- Chocolate and desserts, which can contain harmful ingredients such as xylitol, chocolate, or excessive sugar.
- Alcohol and caffeine, which are always toxic and unsafe for pets in any amount.
Recipes That Are Thanksgiving-Safe for Pets
With our Thanksgiving menu specially crafted for pets, your furry friend can sit right at the table! These recipes are not only safe for cats and dogs but also delicious. Your beloved pet will be truly thankful!
Appetizers: Paw-tato Bites
For Both Dogs & Cats
Ingredients:
- Mashed sweet potatoes (unsalted, no butter or spices)
- A sprinkle of plain Low Sodium turkey broth (no onions or garlic)
Why We Love It:
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and beta-carotene, making them a tasty and healthy treat for dogs and cats. A little broth adds savory Thanksgiving flavor without added salt or spices.
Main Course: Turkey & Veggie Medley
For Dogs
Ingredients:
- Small pieces of plain (no butter or spices of any kind), skinless turkey breast
- Steamed green beans and carrots
For Cats
Ingredients:
- Shredded plain (no butter or spice of any kind) skinless turkey breast
- Tiny, bite-sized green beans (only if your kitty likes them)
Why We Love It:
Turkey is the main event, and we’re here for it! Skinless and unseasoned is the way to go, and a small serving will make us feel like we’re part of the family feast. Green beans and carrots are safe, low-calorie veggies that add a nice crunch for dogs and a little fiber boost for adventurous cats.
Side Dish: Pumpkin Paws-itively Good Mash
For Both Dogs & Cats
Ingredients:
- Pure canned pumpkin (not the spiced pie mix!)
Why We Love It:
Pumpkin is super gentle on our tummies and full of fiber. Serve up a dollop to keep us happily munching along as you enjoy your stuffing and mashed potatoes.
Dessert: Berry Special Pupcakes
For Dogs
Ingredients:
- Oat flour
- Mashed banana
- Blueberries
Mix oat flour with mashed banana and add a few blueberries. Spoon into mini-muffin tins and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
For Cats
Ingredients:
- Just a few blueberries, mashed and sprinkled on a dollop of plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt.
Why We Love It:
A sweet treat without any added sugars! These dog-friendly “pupcakes” have a berry burst of flavor, and cats will love a little yogurt with mashed berries as a creamy, safe dessert.
Drinks: Fancy Feast Mocktail
For Both Dogs & Cats
Ingredients:
- Plain turkey broth (no onions or garlic, and low sodium)
Why We Love It:
Pour a splash in our bowls so we can toast to the holiday right alongside you! A bit of warm broth can also be a nice tummy-warmer, especially for cats who may be pickier with their drinking.
Tips for a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving
Keeping your dog safe during the festivities goes beyond food. With guests, new smells, and plenty of distractions, the holiday hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for our pets. Follow these simple tips to create a dog-friendly environment where your pet feels safe, comfortable, and included in the day’s celebrations.
- Set up a cozy space where your dog can retreat if they need a nap or if the celebration becomes too much.
- Discourage guests from sharing food with your dog unless you provide safe options.
- Secure trash bins to avoid any sneaky food foraging.
- Offer dog-friendly treats that match the holiday theme, like a Kong stuffed with plain pumpkin.
Learn About Nutrition at Our Maple Grove Vet Clinic
At Maple Grove Pet Hospital, we’re committed to your pet’s health beyond just Thanksgiving. Our team is always here to answer your questions about safe foods, balanced diets, and nutritional needs, so your pet can stay healthy all year long. If you’d like to learn more about your pet’s nutritional needs or discuss any holiday concerns, reach out to us or schedule an appointment to visit —we’re here to help you keep your pet safe and happy!