What Can Dogs Eat for Thanksgiving: Do’s and Dont’s

Are you curious about what foods are safe for dogs to eat on Thanksgiving? As you prepare for this food-filled holiday, don’t forget to involve your furry friend! There are some things to keep in mind to ensure a safe holiday for everyone. From dog recipes to hazards, we’ll cover all the information you need to make Thanksgiving special for your canine companion.

This post is all about what dogs CAN and CAN’T eat on Thanksgiving!

Planning for a Safe, Yet Festive Thanksgiving with Your Dog

Assessing Your Dog’s Comfort Level with Guests and Noise

Before the Thanksgiving festivities kick off, take a moment to think about how comfortable your dog is around guests and loud noises. Some dogs may feel anxious or stressed when faced with faces or increased activity. Look out for signs of discomfort, such as trembling, excessive barking, or attempts to hide. If your dog seems uneasy in these situations it’s crucial to plan and create a stress environment.

Providing a Safe and Quiet Space for Your Dog

Consider setting up a designated area where your dog can retreat if needed during Thanksgiving celebrations. This will ensure that they have a peaceful space, amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday. Make sure you have a designated area equipped with their bed, a few toys, and a water bowl. It’s best to choose a quiet spot in your home where they can’t hear the noise. This way your dog can retreat to a secure environment when they need some peace during the festivities.

Establishing Ground Rules for Interactions with Food

When it comes to including your dog in the Thanksgiving feast, it’s important to establish ground rules for how they interact with food. Remind your guests not to feed your dog any table scraps since certain common foods like cooked turkey bones, chocolate, onions, and grapes can be harmful or even toxic for dogs. Instead, prepare some treats specifically made for dogs in advance, so that they can enjoy their Thanksgiving meal! You can also have some of these treats on hand for friends and family to give out, as it creates a bonding experience for everyone involved (a win-win for all!).

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Delicious and Safe Treats for Your Pooch

Homemade Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes

So… what can dogs eat for Thanksgiving?! Who doesn’t love to spoil their furry friends, especially during the holidays? Thanksgiving presents such a great opportunity to treat your dog with goodies. Here are a few recipes that dogs will love! They’re quick, delicious, and guaranteed to make your furry friend drool with anticipation:

• Turkey Meatballs – Great delicious recipe that can be made with ground turkey or leftover turkey. Easy to store and give whenever.
• Pumpkin Pie Frozen Paws – From Red Dog Blue Kat, has simple ingredients you would use to get ready for your Thanksgiving feast, and can be made overnight while prepping your food!
  
• Cranapple Sauce Frozen Paws – From Red Dog Blue Kat, has simple ingredients and can be made overnight!
  

Store-Bought Treats for Your Dogs Delight

If you’re short on time or not much of a chef, there are plenty of store-bought options to make your dog feel included. Here are some popular and safe choices: 

1. Freeze-Dried Turkey Treats: These treats are made with real turkey and packed with flavor, making them a favorite among dogs.
   
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Rich in fiber and vitamins, these treats are a healthy and tasty option for your dog.
   
3. Pumpkin Biscuits: Many pet stores offer festive treats specifically designed for Thanksgiving, often featuring flavors dogs love, like pumpkin.
   

Whether you decide to whip up treats or go for store-bought goodies, involving your dog in the Thanksgiving festivities is a fantastic way to express love and gratitude towards them.

Avoiding Thanksgiving Hazards for Dogs

Foods to Steer Clear of

Being cautious about hazards for dogs during Thanksgiving is crucial. It’s best to steer clear of any turkey bones, as they can splinter when cooked and lead to injuries. Additionally, dishes seasoned with garlic, onion chives, or leeks should be kept away from your dog as these ingredients can be toxic. Moreover, desserts sweetened with xylitol or containing chocolate should be kept out of their paw’s reach since both can be extremely dangerous and harmful for dogs.

Managing Decorations and Plants

While decorating your home for Thanksgiving, it’s important to consider your dog’s safety. Ensure that decorative items like cornucopias, potpourri, and scented candles are placed where your pup cannot access them as they may pose a choking risk or cause harm if ingested. Some popular Thanksgiving plants such as poinsettias and lilies should also be avoided since they can be toxic if consumed. Instead, consider opting for pet-friendly decorations, fake plants, and pet-friendly plants to create a safe yet beautiful home for everyone! If it’s not possible, make sure to keep them from arm’s reach from your pup, as you most likely will not be able to monitor your pup all night.

Safety Measures Around Candles and Fireplaces

Candles and fireplaces create a welcoming ambiance during Thanksgiving. However, they can also pose potential risks for dogs. To prevent accidents consider using fake candles as an alternative or place them out of reach on tables and countertops. When using a fireplace make sure it has a screen to prevent your dog from getting too close. By taking these precautions you can create a safe Thanksgiving environment for both your family and furry friend.

Keeping Your Dog Active and Engaged on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to ensure that your beloved pet remains active and engaged. Here are some enjoyable activities to keep your dog happy and healthy during the holiday:

Engaging Games for Your Dog

1. Hide and Seek: Engage your dog in a game of hide and seek with their favorite toys or treats. This provides mental stimulation and reinforces the bond between you and your dog. 
2. Interactive Toys: Invest in interactive puzzle toys that dispense treats as your dog plays with them. This not only keeps them physically active but also mentally stimulated.
3. Outdoor Walks: Take your dog for a long walk before the festivities begin. This provides an opportunity for exercise and relieves any excess energy they may have.

Ensuring Adequate Exercise and Mental Stimulation

1. Dog-Friendly Obstacle Course: Set up a mini obstacle course in your backyard using cones, tunnels, and jumps. Guide your dog through the course, providing physical and mental stimulation.
2. Training Sessions: Use this time to teach your dog a new trick or practice obedience training. Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity for your dog’s overall well-being.
3. Engage in Playtime: Spend a few extra minutes playing with your dog throughout the day. Whether it’s a game of fetch or tug-of-war, regular playtime is essential for keeping your dog active and engaged.
4. Prepare Enrichment Snacks: Prepare enrichment snacks with foods that your dog enjoys. Use a lick mat or toy filled with dog-safe ingredients like pumpkin puree, yogurt, blueberries, fruits, & treats. Let that freeze overnight and give them to your pup when needed.

By incorporating these activities into your Thanksgiving day, you can ensure that your dog remains active, engaged, and included in the holiday celebrations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, including your dog in Thanksgiving festivities can be an experience for everyone. To ensure the safety and well-being of your friend during the holiday, it’s important to stick to foods that are suitable for dogs. Remember to provide them with treats, a safe space if necessary, and shower them with love and attention. Understandably, you may not be able to keep watch over your dog throughout the evening, unless you have an exceptionally clingy one like mine! Be prepared accordingly by keeping these tips in mind. With these helpful tips in mind, you can create memories with your dog, family, and friends as you celebrate this giving season together.

This post tells you what can dogs eat for Thanksgiving, and offers many ways to include your pup while creating a safe and happy experience for everyone involved!