11/24/2024
Foods Dogs Should Avoid on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, a delicious feast. While it’s tempting to share the bounty with our furry friends, it’s important to remember that not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs. Here’s a guide to help you keep your dog safe and healthy during the holiday season.
1. Turkey Bones and Skin
While plain, cooked turkey meat is generally safe for dogs, turkey bones and skin are not. Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries, while the skin is often seasoned with spices and herbs that can be harmful to dogs1.
2. Stuffing
Stuffing often contains onions, garlic, and other ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Onions and garlic can cause gastrointestinal irritation and even lead to red blood cell damage2.
3. Gravy
Gravy is typically high in fat and may contain ingredients like onions and garlic. High-fat foods can lead to pancreatitis in dogs, a painful and potentially serious condition2.
4. Mashed Potatoes
Plain potatoes are safe in moderation, but mashed potatoes often contain butter, milk, and sometimes garlic or onions. These added ingredients can cause digestive upset and other health issues for dogs2.
5. Cranberry Sauce
While plain cranberries are safe for dogs, cranberry sauce is often loaded with sugar and sometimes contains raisins or grapes, which are toxic to dogs3.
6. Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin itself is safe for dogs, but pumpkin pie contains sugar, spices, and dairy, which can cause digestive problems. Stick to plain, cooked pumpkin if you want to share with your dog3.
7. Pecan Pie
Pecans are toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal upset or even more serious issues like seizures. Pecan pie also contains sugar and other ingredients that are not safe for dogs3.
8. Alcohol
Alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs and can cause a range of symptoms from vomiting and diarrhea to difficulty breathing and even death. Keep all alcoholic beverages out of reach2.
9. Chocolate Desserts
Chocolate is well-known to be toxic to dogs. It contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolize effectively, leading to symptoms ranging from vomiting to seizures and even death2.
10. Yeast Dough
Uncooked yeast dough can expand in your dog’s stomach, causing bloating and potentially dangerous complications. It can also ferment and produce alcohol, which is toxic3.
Safe Alternatives
If you want to include your dog in the Thanksgiving festivities, consider these safe alternatives:
Plain, cooked turkey meat (without bones or skin)
Plain green beans
Plain sweet potatoes
Plain pumpkin
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your dog enjoys a safe and happy Thanksgiving alongside the rest of the family. 🐾🦃