What Dogs Can Eat on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Can and Can’t Eat

Understanding Holiday Food Safety for Dogs

Thanksgiving brings an abundance of delicious foods, but not all of them are safe to share with your dog. While the holiday is a time for family and gratitude, it also leads to an increase in emergency vet visits due to toxic ingredients, rich foods, and unintentional overfeeding.

This guide outlines which Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs in moderation and which should be kept off their plate entirely. PUPS Pet Club encourages all pet parents to stay mindful during the holiday so their dogs remain happy, healthy, and stress-free.

Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs

The following foods are generally safe for dogs when served plain and without added butter, sugar, salt, garlic, or spices. Always introduce new foods slowly and only in small amounts.

Turkey (Plain, Cooked)

Lean, skinless, boneless turkey is safe for dogs and a good source of protein. Avoid turkey skin, fatty pieces, and all bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries.

Sweet Potatoes

Plain, cooked sweet potatoes are excellent for digestion and high in fiber. Avoid sweet potato casseroles or pies, which often include sugar, marshmallows, or spices.

Pumpkin

Plain canned pumpkin or cooked pumpkin (with no spices) is safe and can soothe digestion. Skip pumpkin pie or anything containing nutmeg.

Green Beans

Fresh or steamed green beans without oil, seasonings, or fried coatings are a safe, low-calorie treat.

Carrots

Cooked or raw carrots are nutritious and safe for most dogs. Keep pieces small to prevent choking.

Apples

Plain apple slices are safe as long as seeds and the core are removed. Never give apples cooked in sugary glazes or pies.

Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat

Many traditional Thanksgiving dishes contain harmful ingredients that can cause digestive issues, toxicity, or more serious medical conditions.

Onions, Garlic, Leeks, and Chives

These common ingredients can damage a dog’s red blood cells and can be found in stuffing, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and gravy.

Grapes and Raisins

Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs. Raisins often appear in stuffings, breads, and desserts.

Pie Spices (Especially Nutmeg)

Nutmeg contains myristicin, which is toxic to dogs. Foods such as pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, and mulled dishes should be avoided.

Turkey Bones and Skin

Bones splinter easily, and turkey skin is too fatty for dogs, often causing vomiting or pancreatitis.

Stuffing

Stuffing frequently includes onions, garlic, butter, salt, and spices—none of which are safe for dogs.

Chocolate Desserts

Chocolate toxicity can be serious or fatal. This includes brownies, pies, cookies, and cocoa-based sauces.

Alcohol

Alcohol can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar, coordination issues, and respiratory problems.

Tips for a Safe and Stress-Free Thanksgiving With Your Dog

Even well-behaved dogs can be tempted by dropped food, overflowing countertops, or generous guests. To keep your dog safe:

– Inform guests not to give table scraps

– Keep trash cans secured and out of reach

– Avoid placing food near the edge of counters or tables

– Supervise children who may accidentally share harmful foods

– Have a designated quiet space or use dog daycare if you’re hosting a large gathering

PUPS Pet Club offers daycare and boarding options during the holiday season to help dogs maintain routine and avoid food-related mishaps during busy gatherings.

How PUPS Pet Club Can Support You During the Holidays

PUPS Pet Club provides services that make the holiday season easier for both pets and their families.

Dog Boarding – A safe, clean, supervised environment for dogs while families travel.
Dog Daycare – Structured play and supervision, helpful for busy Thanksgiving hosts.
Grooming – Freshen your dog before holiday photos or gatherings.
Training – Support for manners, impulse control, food boundaries, and polite greeting behaviors.

Our team is here to ensure your dog stays healthy, supported, and well-cared-for throughout the bustling holiday season.

A Thanksgiving Worth Celebrating—Safely

Sharing the holiday with your dog is one of the best parts of Thanksgiving. By understanding which foods are safe to offer and which to avoid, you can prevent emergencies and keep the celebration joyful for everyone.