Pup-Safe Thanksgiving: Delicious Treats Your Dog Can Enjoy
Pup-Safe Thanksgiving: Delicious Treats Your Dog Can Enjoy
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family, indulge in festive dishes, and reflect on the things we’re grateful for—including the loyal pups by our side. As we prepare the holiday spread, it’s easy to want to let our dogs join in on the celebration, but not everything on our table is fit for them. While it might seem harmless to slip them a little of what we’re eating, many of the rich, flavorful foods we enjoy contain ingredients that can upset their stomachs or worse. Knowing how to treat them safely during the feast is key to keeping their tails wagging through the holiday.
To let your pup join in the Thanksgiving fun without worrying about their health, try these special dog-friendly treats that are sure to get them excited. These goodies will keep them happily munching while you enjoy your feast, with no need for compromise!
Plain Turkey Bites (No Seasoning Allowed!)
If you’re carving up the turkey, set aside a few plain, unseasoned bites for your dog. Turkey is an excellent lean protein, but make sure it’s skinless and free of any spices or marinades. The skin is too fatty for pups, and the bones can be dangerous, so stick to small, fully cooked pieces of boneless turkey breast. It’s the perfect way to let your dog join in the feast without any of the risks.
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin isn’t just for pies—it’s a powerhouse of fiber and nutrients for your dog, loaded with vitamins A and C. If you’ve got some plain canned pumpkin (make sure it’s not the pie filling with spices), scoop a little out for your pup. You can stir it into their food for a digestive boost or serve it solo as a festive treat. Not only is it great for their tummy, but it also lets your dog get a taste of fall right alongside you!
Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potatoes aren’t just for casseroles—they’re a nutrient-packed treat your dog will love. Loaded with vitamins B6, C, and potassium, they make a healthy and tasty snack. Slice them into thin strips and bake until they’re soft and chewy for a naturally sweet treat that’s safe for your pup. Skip the butter, sugar, or spices from other dishes, and your dog will have their own Thanksgiving snack to savor!
Frozen Cranberries
While cranberry sauce might be a holiday favorite, it’s packed with sugar and off-limits for dogs. Instead, whip up something special just for them by blending fresh cranberries with plain yogurt and freezing the mix in fun molds or ice cube trays. These tangy, antioxidant-rich bites are a refreshing twist your pup will love, giving them a taste of the season without the sugar overload!
Apple Slices
Apples are a crisp, juicy treat your dog will love, and they come with the added bonus of fiber and vitamins A and C. Slice up some apple pieces for your pup, but be sure to remove the core and seeds—those aren’t dog-friendly! These naturally sweet, hydrating bites are the perfect way to give your dog a refreshing post-dinner snack that’s both healthy and delicious.
Foods to Avoid
Not everything on the Thanksgiving table is dog-friendly, and some dishes can actually be harmful. Steer clear of anything containing onions, garlic, or chives—common ingredients in stuffing—that are toxic to dogs. Rich foods like gravy or buttery dishes can cause stomach upset and even lead to more serious problems like pancreatitis. And as tempting as desserts may be, skip sharing anything sweet with your pup, especially if it contains chocolate, raisins, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, all of which are dangerous. Keeping these risky foods out of your dog’s bowl will help them enjoy the holiday safely.
As you prepare for the holiday feast, remember to keep your furry friend safe with these dog-friendly Thanksgiving treats. Whether it’s pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or apple slices, there are plenty of ways to let your pup join in the fun without compromising their health. At Puppyland Arizona, we’re here to help make this holiday special for the whole family—including your beloved dog. From all of us at Puppyland Arizona, we wish you, your pup, and your family a happy, safe, and joyful Thanksgiving!