Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. You may be wondering what Thanksgiving foods safe for dogs to eat. Well, wonder no more! Joe is here to tell you that you can feed your dog a Thanksgiving meal! Just be sure to feed foods that are safe for your pooch to eat.
Contents
Thanksgiving Foods Safe For Dogs To Eat
First and foremost, it’s important to keep in mind that not all human foods are safe for dogs.
Thanksgiving Foods Bad for Dogs to Eat
Some common Thanksgiving foods can be toxic or dangerous for dogs, so it’s important to be aware of which ones to avoid. Here are some Thanksgiving foods bad for dogs to consume:
- Turkey bones: While it may be tempting to give your dog a few scraps of turkey, it’s important to remember that bones can splinter and cause blockages or tears in your dog’s digestive system.
- Stuffing: Stuffing often contains onions and/or garlic, which can be toxic to dogs.
- Gravy: Gravy can contain a lot of fat and spices that can be harmful to dogs.
- Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes may seem like a harmless treat for your dog, but they can be high in sodium and fat, which can be unhealthy for dogs in large quantities.
- Cranberry sauce: Cranberry sauce can contain a lot of sugar, which can be harmful to dogs.
Safe Foods for Doggies on Thanksgiving
Now that we’ve covered what NOT to feed your dog, let’s talk about some Thanksgiving foods that are safe for dogs to enjoy. Here are a few options that you can feel good about giving to your furry friend:
- Cooked, plain turkey: As long as it’s cooked and doesn’t have any seasoning or additives, plain turkey can be a healthy and delicious treat for your dog. Just be sure to remove the skin and bones.
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals for dogs. They can be baked or mashed and served plain, or you can mix in a small amount of plain, cooked turkey for added protein.
- Green beans: Green beans are a healthy, low-calorie option for dogs. They can be served cooked or raw and make a great addition to your dog’s Thanksgiving meal.
- Carrots: Carrots are a great source of fiber and vitamins for dogs. They can be served cooked or raw and make a great crunchy treat.
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a great source of fiber and can be helpful for dogs with digestive issues. It can be served cooked or canned (make sure it’s plain, with no added sugars or spices) and can be mixed into your dog’s food or served as a treat.
It’s important to remember that even though these foods are safe for dogs, they should still be given in moderation. Dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, and it’s important to make sure they are getting a balanced diet. If you’re not sure if a particular food is safe for your dog, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian.
While there are plenty of Thanksgiving foods that are off-limits for dogs, there are still plenty of options that are safe and delicious for your furry friend. Just be sure to stick to plain, unseasoned foods and avoid giving your dog any foods that are toxic or high in fat, salt, or sugar. With a little planning, you and your dog can both enjoy a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.
It’s also important to remember that even though a food may be safe for dogs to eat, it may not necessarily be good for them. For example, while a small amount of cooked, plain turkey can be a healthy treat for your dog, feeding your dog an entire Thanksgiving meal made up of human foods may not provide all the nutrients they need and could lead to digestive issues or weight gain.
If you want to include your dog in your Thanksgiving celebrations, it’s a good idea to set aside a small portion of safe, healthy foods just for them. This will ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need while also allowing them to join in on the festivities.
Thanksgiving Dinner for the Dogs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of kibble
- 1 slice of turkey (make sure it’s cooked and not raw!)
- 1 spoonful of mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 spoonful of gravy
- 1 spoonful of cranberry sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Place the kibble in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the slice of turkey, mashed sweet potatoes, gravy, and cranberry sauce to the mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a small baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to your dog.
- Serve with a side of wagging tail and lots of love.
Note: This recipe is meant for humorous purposes only. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving can be a fun and enjoyable time for you and your dog as long as you are mindful of what you feed them. Stick to safe, healthy options and avoid any toxic or harmful foods. With a little planning and caution, you and your furry friend can have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving together.
Here are some more things your doggy can and cannot eat. Be sure to check out the American Kennel Club’s guide to feeding your dog on Thanksgiving. Also check out these Turkey Tendon Dog Treats, which made the Amazon Choice list.
What do you feed your pooch on Thanksgiving? Let me know in the comments!