Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs: What Can (and Can’t) Dogs Eat?

Nov 12

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course — delicious food! But as tempting as it is to share your Thanksgiving dinner with your dog, not every dish is safe for them to eat.

At Puptown Lounge, we want every pup to enjoy the holidays safely. Whether your dog is joining you at home or staying with us for daycare or boarding, here’s your guide to Thanksgiving foods that are safe for dogs — and the ones to avoid.

Why Thanksgiving Can Be Risky for Dogs

Many holiday favorites are packed with butter, salt, sugar, and spices that can upset a dog’s stomach or even be toxic. Knowing what’s safe before you start sneaking table scraps can help prevent an emergency vet visit.

Common Thanksgiving dangers for dogs include:

Cooked bones that can splinter
Rich, fatty gravies
Onions, garlic, and other toxic ingredients
Chocolate and desserts with artificial sweeteners

Dog-Safe Thanksgiving Foods

These human foods can be shared safely — in moderation — when prepared the right way.

1. Plain Turkey

A little boneless, skinless turkey can be a great source of lean protein for your pup. Make sure it’s fully cooked and free from seasoning, butter, or gravy.

Avoid: Turkey bones and skin, which can cause digestive issues or blockages.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes for dogs are a nutritious treat! They’re full of fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins. Just skip the brown sugar, butter, and marshmallows found in casseroles.

3. Carrots

Cooked or raw carrots make the perfect crunchy snack. They support eye health and can be served as small, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking hazards.

4. Green Beans

Plain green beans are full of vitamins and low in calories — perfect for pups watching their waistline. Just avoid casseroles or dishes with onions or cream sauces.

5. Pumpkin Purée

A spoonful of pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) can soothe your dog’s digestion and support a shiny coat. It’s one of our favorite seasonal dog-safe foods!

Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Should Avoid

Even small bites of the following foods can cause harm — so keep these off your dog’s plate.

🍗 Turkey Skin, Bones, and Gravy

High in fat and seasoning, these can lead to pancreatitis and stomach upset. Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injury.

🥔 Stuffing and Mashed Potatoes

Onions, garlic, butter, and salt are common in these dishes — all ingredients that are harmful to dogs.

🍰 Desserts and Chocolate

Chocolate toxicity in dogs is serious, and many holiday sweets also contain xylitol, which is extremely dangerous.

🍇 Grapes and Raisins

Even one or two can cause kidney failure in dogs. Keep fruit salads and desserts far from reach.

Holiday Safety Tips for Dog Owners

Make a special plate for your pup with dog-safe foods only.
Remind guests not to share food with your dog.
Secure trash cans — dogs are experts at sniffing out leftovers.
Stick to routine as much as possible, including walks and feeding times.
Monitor for signs of illness, such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

Boarding or Daycare During Thanksgiving?

If you’re traveling for the holidays, Puptown Lounge is here to make sure your pup has a tail-wagging Thanksgiving! Our dog daycare and boarding in Columbus, Ohio gives dogs a safe, fun place to play, relax, and enjoy plenty of attention while you’re away.

Spaces fill up quickly around the holidays — so book your dog’s stay early!