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Dogs can enjoy many traditional Thanksgiving foods. The key is to let them indulge in moderation. That’s because Thanksgiving weekend is infamous in the veterinary world for bringing a huge spike in pancreatitis, vomiting, and diarrhea. These things happen when dogs eat too many (and too much of!) rich foods that they are not used to.
Sometimes dogs get into trouble because family members are sneaking them too many treats, but other times the dog helps herself to the counter, table, or garbage can. Either way, these “treats” can lead to temporary and even long-term illness in your dog.
We suggest that, to ensure that you and your dog are both able to enjoy the festivities in the moment, you:
- Instruct guests to not feed the dog without your permission, especially dogs with known food allergies or sensitivities or a sensitive stomach
- Set aside tidbits for your pup so you know how much she is eating throughout the day
- Avoid fatty cuts of meat
- Avoid dairy products
- Stick to minimal seasoning on any food that you feed your dog
- Use baby gates to keep your dog out of food prep areas
- Consider crating your dog or confining her to another room if she is a known food thief
- Secure the turkey carcass and other garbage in a can that your dog either cannot access or cannot open
What Can Dogs Eat on Thanksgiving?
Of course your dog can eat many plain unseasoned vegetables, but in case you’re wondering about Thanksgiving staples that your dog can have in moderation, we’ve got you covered:
Turkey: Offer your dog a small amount of cooked meat. The skin is typically higher in fat and salt/seasonings, making it less ideal for your pup. Gizzards and organ meat are tasty treats for dogs who tolerate them, but they are also rich.
Ham: Allow tiny pieces of cooked ham, avoiding fatty areas. Ham is typically both fatty and salty, so just give your dog a taste.
Mashed potatoes: Plain mashed potatoes without too many things added in are safe for your dog, though she may not enjoy them, but skip the gravy.
Carrots: Your dog can enjoy carrots cooked or raw! Ideally feed ones that are not heavily seasoned.
Sweet potatoes: Offer to your dog plain, with minimal seasoning.
Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin is an excellent healthy treat for dogs. Offer a teaspoon or so if your dog has not had it before. You can even make your dog’s own pumpkin treats.
Pumpkin pie: Pumpkin pie has a lot more sugar than plain canned pumpkin, but your dog can have a small taste.
Green beans: Plain, cooked green beans are an excellent snack for your dog.
Cranberries: Plain and cooked cranberries are safe for your dog. If your family uses the classic cranberry sauce recipe of just cranberries, sugar, and water, your dog can even have a small taste of cranberry sauce (don’t go too overboard because of the high sugar content). If you add additional ingredients to your cranberry sauce, your dog should skip this dish.
Thanksgiving for Your Dog: Caution
Always remember that, while there are many Thanksgiving foods dogs can eat, err on the side of caution. Offer your dog small portions that do not have extra sugar or seasonings and avoid fatty foods.
The simplest option is often to set aside your dog’s “meal” ahead of time so you know exactly how much of each thing she will be getting. And if your pup has a sensitive stomach, save your carpets by not giving her any foods that she is not used to.