Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and indulge in a delicious meal surrounded by friends, family — and of course, our four-legged companions.  As the savory smells fill your home, it’s only natural to want to share a few bites with your pup.  But before you slide that plate under the table, it’s important to know which Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs — and which ones can lead to an unexpected trip to the vet.

Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Can Enjoy (in moderation!)
A few traditional holiday favorites can be safely shared with your dog — as long as they’re plain, cooked, and free from added oils, seasonings, or sauces.

  • Turkey (no skin or bones!) – Lean, cooked white meat turkey is a great source of protein.  Just skip the skin, bones, and rich gravies.
  • Sweet Potatoes – Full of fiber and vitamins, these are a healthy treat when served plain and mashed.
  • Green Beans – A crunchy, low-calorie snack that’s packed with nutrients.
  • Pumpkin – Plain canned or fresh-cooked pumpkin can help with digestion (just avoid pumpkin pie filling).
  • Apples – Remove the core and seeds, then slice into small bites for a naturally sweet treat.

Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid
Some traditional dishes and ingredients can be toxic or upsetting to your dog’s stomach.  Keep these off their plate:

  • Stuffing and Gravy – Often contain onions, garlic, and seasonings that are toxic to dogs.
  • Mashed Potatoes – Butter, milk, salt, and garlic make this dish a no-go.
  • Chocolate and Desserts – Chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute), and rich sweets can be dangerous — even in small amounts.
  • Cooked Bones – These can splinter and cause serious internal injury.
  • Alcohol or Yeast Dough – Both are highly toxic and can cause severe health issues.

If you’d like your pup to join in the holiday fun, it’s safest to prepare something made just for them — like this easy, fall-inspired treat!

Easy Pumpkin Pie Dog Treats

Ingredients:
1 cup canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
2 eggs
2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive tummies)
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:
1.  Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2.  In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin and eggs until smooth.
3.  Add flour and cinnamon, stirring until dough forms. (Add a little water if it’s too dry.)
4.  Roll dough to about ¼ inch thick and cut into shapes — pumpkins, turkeys, or bones!
5.  Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 30–35 minutes, until firm and golden.
6.  Let cool completely before serving or storing.

These homemade treats are full of fall flavor and perfect for sharing your gratitude with your best friend — without any of the holiday hazards.

From all of us at Dogtopia of Chester Springs, we wish you and your furry family members a safe, happy, and tail-wagging Thanksgiving!