Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs: A Holiday Guide for Pet Parents

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and delicious food. But while your pup gives you those irresistible puppy eyes, not everything on the table is safe. Here’s your guide to safe foods your dog can enjoy—and what to avoid!

Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs

1. Turkey (Plain, Boneless, Cooked)

✅ Safe: Skinless, boneless white or dark meat, cooked plain.

❌ Avoid: Cooked bones, skin, or seasoned pieces—they’re high in fat and dangerous.

2. Sweet Potatoes

✅ Safe: Plain cooked sweet potatoes (baked, boiled, or steamed).

❌ Avoid: Casseroles with marshmallows, sugar, spices, or butter.

Did You Know? Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins—great for your dog’s digestion!

3. Pumpkin (Plain)

✅ Safe: Plain canned pumpkin or cooked fresh pumpkin.

❌ Avoid: Pumpkin pie or spiced desserts.

4. Green Beans

✅ Safe: Fresh or cooked green beans with no added seasoning.

❌ Avoid: Green bean casserole (cream and fried onions are a no-go).

5. Carrots

✅ Safe: Raw or cooked plain carrots.

❌ Avoid: Glazed or buttered carrots.

6. Apples

✅ Safe: Apple slices with no core or seeds.

❌ Avoid: Apple pie or desserts with added sugar.

🚫 Foods Dogs Should Never Eat

• Stuffing: Onions, garlic, butter, and spices.

• Turkey Bones: Can splinter and cause choking or internal injury.

• Gravy: High in fat and often contains onions/garlic.

• Mashed Potatoes: Usually contain butter, milk, or garlic.

• Cranberry Sauce & Fruit Pies: Sugary, sometimes contains grapes or raisins.

• Desserts: Chocolate, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and sugar are toxic.

Warning: Even small amounts of some foods (like chocolate or onions) can be dangerous. Keep your dog safe—stick to plain, unseasoned options.

Building a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Plate

A balanced holiday plate for your pup (depending on their size) might include:

• 2–3 tbsp plain cooked turkey

• 1 tbsp plain sweet potato

• A few green beans

• 1 tsp plain pumpkin

• A couple of carrot or apple slices

Tip: Keep portions small—these are treats, not meal replacements!

Watch for Signs of Overindulgence

Even safe foods can upset your dog’s stomach if eaten in excess. Contact your vet if you notice:

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Lethargy

• Bloating

• Excessive drooling

Pro Tip: Introduce any new food gradually to prevent digestive issues.

Celebrate Safely With Your Furry Family Member

With planning, your dog can enjoy Thanksgiving right beside you. For extra stress-free holidays, consider a short training session before guests arrive to reinforce polite behavior around food and people.

Your dog will thank you—and so will your guests!