You’ve heard the old phrase, “sharing is caring.” While that’s true for most things, it doesn’t necessarily apply to sharing Thanksgiving dinner with your dog.

A lot of what we eat during the holidays can make our dogs very sick and, in some cases, can even be toxic. Foods that are high in fat, such as dark turkey meat and gravy, or those slathered in butter, such as bread and biscuits, can cause gastrointestinal upset and pancreatitis. Veggies can be safe, but many have seasonings like onions and garlic that can be toxic to dogs.

You’ve likely read that there are safe meats, veggies, and even dessert options for your dog. Well, that’s true if certain precautions are taken, and the right foods are offered. By following these tips, you can create a wonderful Thanksgiving for dogs.

Thanksgiving Meat Options for Your Dog

Nothing says Thanksgiving more than a turkey. While we can handle the increased fat of the turkey meat and skin, as well as the additional seasonings, our dogs often cannot. There are options to give your dog a little turkey, but it’s important to remember that you shouldn’t get creative with food if your pet is on a hypoallergenic diet or has other health issues for which your vet has advised against it.

Turkey

• Turkey flavored canned dog food. To avoid upset stomach, don't give your dog too much too quickly.
• Plain, boiled ground turkey. Skim off any fat while cooking.
• Turkey baby food. Look for options that don't include onions or garlic.

For those who are less inclined to use turkey for their dog's Thanksgiving, chicken is a good alternative. Boiled, boneless, skinless chicken breast chopped up is a great option. There are chicken-flavored canned dog foods and baby foods as well. There are also chicken-flavored dog food toppers.

Special Sides for Your Dog's Thanksgiving Dinner

Turkey may be the main dish, but the sides help make it shine. Again, the way we prepare side dishes such as casseroles, stuffing, and veggies, often makes them unsafe for our dogs. The good news is that many of the same ingredients can easily be made dog-friendly.

Salad

Some Thanksgiving dinners start with a salad. If you skip all the dressing and extras, a small amount of romaine and iceberg lettuce is a nice high-fiber appetizer to your dog’s Thanksgiving dinner. You can even add a small amount of chopped cucumbers, carrots, and ripe tomatoes.

Stuffing

We all love stuffing (and, likely, our dogs would too), but giving them traditional stuffing or dressing could result in gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis, and they often contain ingredients such as onions and garlic that are toxic. So, what’s a good substitute? You can give a small amount of plain bread if it’s been cooked properly. Never give unbaked dough which can result in hypoglycemia, bloat, or alcohol poisoning.

Mashed and Sweet Potatoes

Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes? Both can be simply prepared so they’re safe for your dog. Boil or bake them as usual with no seasonings or toppings. Once done, mash them up without the skins, and add them to your pet’s regular diet. You can also chop them up and roast them plain. Always be sure to check food temperature before serving so it’s not too hot for your dog. There are even sweet potato dog chews you can easily make yourself.

Vegetables

Veggies are a must during the holidays. The good news is, if they’re served plain and cooked, most veggies are safe for dogs if given in moderation.  Generally, it’s best to cook the veggies and cut them into pieces small enough that your dog can’t choke on them. Green beans, peas, and carrots are great options for the holiday. They can also be incorporated regularly into your pet’s diet. Besides these veggies, plain, steamed, or roasted broccoli and cauliflower are options.

Thanksgiving Dessert for Dogs

Often, we’re so stuffed from all the food from the main meal that dessert seems impossible. But magically there’s always room for a little pie.

Pie

Whether you’re a fan of apple or pumpkin pie, either fruit can be adapted into a wonderful canine treat. Never give canned apples or pumpkin pie filling to dogs, as both contain ingredients that are not agreeable with their gastrointestinal tracts. Also, some varieties contain xylitol, which is toxic to pets.

Apples

Apples can easily be peeled and cored. You don’t want to give more than one or two slices chopped up. As an added treat, you can put some plain Greek yogurt on top to mimic ice cream. Never give your dog the apple seeds (they are toxic), or the core (it can cause an intestinal blockage). Be sure to check that the Greek yogurt you select does not contain xylitol.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is another great treat but must be given in moderation. Most dogs love plain pureed pumpkin. Use the canned variety (not pumpkin pie filling, but plain pumpkin puree), and put a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top. Pumpkin can also be used when making these yummy homemade pumpkin treats.

With these alterations, you can include a tasty Thanksgiving for dogs to your holiday tradition. May you and your dog have a wonderful Thanksgiving feast!

This article contains food information that is considered suitable for pets. However, not all pets can tolerate different foods — it depends on their age, health history, and health conditions. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before feeding your pet any new foods or offering your pet any of the ingredients contained in this article.