Every pet owner knows that Thanksgiving isn’t just for the enjoyment of humans—it often extends to the dogs, as well. Even if you didn’t necessarily anticipate sharing your Thanksgiving turkey! However, knowing which Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs is important so they don’t spend the holiday sick or at the vet. From turkey to certain vegetables, here are a few delicious Thanksgiving foods for dogs.
Safe Thanksgiving Food For Dogs
When it comes to incorporating your furry friends into the Thanksgiving festivities, knowing the safe Thanksgiving foods for dogs is important. Here are just a few safe Thanksgiving foods for dogs:
Sweet Potatoes/Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a fantastic choice, provided they are served plain without any brown sugar, maple syrup, or marshmallows. These root vegetables are rich in fiber and vitamins, making them a beneficial addition to your dog’s holiday meal. Additionally, boiled or baked potatoes, free from butter and salt, also serve as healthy options for your dog on Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Turkey
Turkey is another staple of the holiday that can be shared; just as long as there aren’t any bones or skin. Bones can pose a choking hazard, and the skin often contains fat and spices that aren’t ideal for canine consumption. So, can dogs eat Thanksgiving turkey? Absolutely! Just be sure you follow the above precautions!
Green Beans
Green beans are another excellent choice for dogs during Thanksgiving. Serve them plain, without the addition of butter or salt, for a low-calorie, crunchy treat that’s packed with vitamins and safe for dogs.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin puree offers a simple way to treat your dog that’s right on par for the festivities of the season. However, it’s important to remember that it’s the pure pumpkin puree you want to feed your furry friend—not the pie filling, which often contains added sugars and spices and can cause illness.
Cranberries
You may wonder, can dogs eat cranberries? The answer is yes, and they can even enjoy raw cranberries right out of the bag! These tart little berries are safe for dogs as long as there are no added sugars (so make sure to avoid sharing any canned or homemade cranberry sauces), making them a delightful addition to your pet’s Thanksgiving plate.
Toxic Thanksgiving Food For Dogs
Now that you know what your dog can eat, here’s a quick rundown of the most common toxic Thanksgiving foods for dogs:
Turkey Bones & Skin
Turkey bones are dangerous because they can splinter, leading to internal injuries or obstructions. Meanwhile, the skin often harbors excess fat and spices that can upset a dog’s stomach.
Stuffing
Stuffing, a common holiday dish, is problematic due to ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices, which are toxic and can cause severe digestive issues or even red blood cell damage in dogs.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes, often laden with butter, milk, and seasonings, are another Thanksgiving food not good for dogs. The high-fat content is tough on their digestive system and can result in tummy trouble or weight gain if consumed in large quantities.
Yeast Dough
Yeast dough poses a less obvious, but still significant risk. If ingested, yeast can continue to rise in a dog’s stomach, causing painful bloating or even life-threatening conditions.
Food With Spices
In general, foods with spices, such as various casseroles and gravies, should also be avoided as they can lead to irritation in dogs.
Choose Supreme Source for Your Pet’s Treats This Holiday
As you prepare your Thanksgiving meal, remember that, like you, your pets deserve a feast that’s both delightful and safe. Instead of risking their health with unsafe foods, why not treat them to something special from the Supreme Source, like our Turkey Meal and Sweet Potato Recipe Dog Food? Made with turkey, sweet potato, super organic seaweed and other ingredients dogs love, Supreme Source is a great way to get your pet involved in the festivities, while keeping them healthy for years to come.
Plus, delicious food isn’t all we specialize in at Supreme Source, we have treats, too! Choose from mouth-watering options like lamb meal and sweet potato dog biscuits, or chicken meal, carrot, and pea dog biscuits. With Supreme Source Pet treats and food, every member of your family, human and canine alike, can have a memorable and joyful Thanksgiving.