Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude, and delicious food—but when your dog is gazing up at the table with big hopeful eyes, it can be tempting to share the feast. Before you slip your pup a bite of turkey or stuffing, it’s important to know which Thanksgiving foods for dogs are safe… and which can cause serious harm.
Whether you’re hosting a full house or celebrating quietly at home, this guide will help keep your dog healthy and happy throughout the holiday.
🦴 Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs (In Moderation)
Certain Thanksgiving foods for dogs can actually be healthy treats when prepared simply and without added ingredients. Here’s what’s safe to share:
✔️ Plain, Cooked Turkey (No Skin, No Bones)
Turkey is a lean, high-protein option for dogs—perfect as a small holiday treat.
Avoid: Skin (fatty), bones (dangerous splintering), seasoning, gravy, butter.
✔️ Plain Sweet Potatoes
Cooked, unseasoned sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins.
Avoid: Casseroles, marshmallows, spices.
✔️ Green Beans
Fresh or cooked plain green beans make a crunchy, low-calorie snack.
✔️ Pumpkin Purée
Plain canned pumpkin supports digestion and makes a festive topper.
Avoid: Pumpkin pie filling (contains sugar, spices, and xylitol risk).
✔️ Apple Slices (No Seeds)
Fresh apples are safe in small amounts—but never give seeds or cores.
❌ Dangerous Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
Some classic holiday dishes pose real risks. Steer clear of these Thanksgiving foods for dogs, no matter how sweetly they beg:
⚠️ Stuffing & Casseroles
Often contain onions, garlic, butter, and spices—all toxic or irritating to dogs.
⚠️ Ham or Rich Meats
High fat can trigger pancreatitis—especially in small dogs or those with sensitive stomachs.
⚠️ Desserts (Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie, Cookies)
Sugar, chocolate, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and spices make desserts unsafe.
⚠️ Onions, Garlic, Leeks, Shallots
Even small amounts can damage a dog’s red blood cells.
⚠️ Alcohol or Raw Dough
Yeast dough expands internally. Alcohol is extremely dangerous even in tiny amounts.
⚠️ Turkey Bones
Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause choking or internal injury.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Treat Alternatives
Want your dog to feel included in the holiday fun without risking their health? Hollywood Feed carries a wide variety of safe, fun, and festive treats your pup can enjoy instead of table scraps.
💖 Carolina Made Dog Treat – Turkey Jerky
Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Jerky Treats are USA made in North Carolina single Ingredient, High Protein & Slow Roasted
💚 Purposeful Pup Dog Treats – Turkey Sausage
All-Natural, Single-Ingredient Chews -Purposeful Pup creates long-lasting, wholesome treats made from single, high-quality ingredients
🧡 Preppy Puppy Bakery
Adorable, bakery-style cookies made with wholesome ingredients and free from wheat, corn, and soy. Perfect for holiday gifting or a special Thanksgiving dessert moment.
💛 Bocce’s Bakery All-Natural Dog Treats
Simple, high-quality ingredients like real chicken, antibiotic-free beef, and peanut butter. Great for training or just treating your pup throughout the day.
🦃 How to Include Your Dog in Thanksgiving Safely
It’s normal to want your pup to share in the joy of the holiday. Here are safe ways to celebrate together:
🐕🦺 1. Build a Thanksgiving Treat Board for Dogs
Use safe items like:
💛 2. Keep Their Regular Diet Stable
Large, rich meals can upset a dog’s stomach. Stick to their normal food and add small holiday extras sparingly.
🎉 3. Provide Enrichment While You Cook
Stuff a Kong with:
🚪 4. Keep Unsafe Foods Out of Reach
Counter-surfing is especially tempting when the turkey comes out! Consider:
⭐ Thanksgiving Recap: Safe & Unsafe Foods for Dogs
Safe (Plain Only):
Unsafe:
Stuffing
Casseroles
Pies & desserts
Onions & garlic
Ham/fatty foods
Turkey bones
Raw dough
Don’t Forget:
Treat your dog with HF’s safe treats
Stick to moderation
Keep holiday hazards out of reach
❓ FAQ: Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
Q: Can dogs eat turkey?
A: Yes—plain cooked turkey without skin, bones, or seasoning is safe.
Q: What should I do if my dog eats stuffing or onions?
A: Call your vet or emergency clinic immediately. These foods are toxic.
Q: Are potatoes safe for dogs?
A: Plain, cooked potatoes are safe. Mashed potatoes with butter, cream, or garlic are not.
Q: Can dogs have whipped cream?
A: Some can tolerate a tiny amount, but dairy can upset many stomachs. Safer to skip it.
Q: What is the safest Thanksgiving treat for my dog?
A: Single-ingredient treats or holiday bakery treats from Hollywood Feed are always a safe bet.
🧡 A Final Word from Hollywood Feed
Thanksgiving is all about celebrating the ones we’re grateful for—and that includes our pets. By choosing safe Thanksgiving foods for dogs and offering dog-friendly treats instead of table scraps, you can keep the holiday fun, festive, and safe.
Visit your local Hollywood Feed or shop online for healthy treats, holiday bakery delights, and everything you need to make this Thanksgiving extra special for your pup.
For more ways to keep your pet safe, healthy, and happy, follow the Hollywood Feed Blog!
