Thanksgiving is a day of shared meals and gatherings. For dog owners, the holiday also raises common questions: which foods can I safely share, and what should I keep completely off the table?
This guide provides clear answers, evidence-based cautions, practical prevention tips, and a sample “dog-friendly” plate you can prepare.
For trusted, veterinary-backed guidance on holiday food risks and common pet toxins, see resources from the ASPCA and AKC.
Foods You Can Share (In Moderation)
When offering human food to a dog, follow these rules: food must be plain (no sauces, butter, oil, or seasonings), given in small portions, and offered after the meal rather than from the table. Below are commonly available Thanksgiving items that are generally safe when prepared this way.
Turkey (Plain, Boneless)
Lean white turkey meat (without skin, bones, gravy, or seasonings) is acceptable in small amounts. Turkey is not inherently toxic to dogs, but fatty skin and drippings can cause digestive upset or more serious conditions; always remove skin, trim fat, and never give cooked bones. American Kennel Club
Pumpkin (Only Plain)
Pumpkin supports digestion and is considered stomach-friendly for dogs.
Plain Mashed Potatoes
Plain mashed potatoes without butter, heavy cream, garlic, or onion are fine in small quantities. Loaded mashed potato recipes with dairy, garlic, or onion ingredients should be avoided.
Plain Vegetables
Cooked carrots, green beans, peas, and plain pumpkin puree are nutritious options. Do not serve vegetable casseroles that contain onions, garlic, butter, or high-sodium additives.
Fresh Fruit & Small Bread Portions
Small amounts of apple (no seeds), blueberries, and plain bread are allowable. Avoid raisin or grape-based dishes entirely (see toxic foods). If your dog has dietary restrictions, skip bread.
Cheese (Only If Tolerated)
Some dogs tolerate small amounts of cheese. Because many dogs are lactose-intolerant, offer only tiny portions and monitor for gastrointestinal issues.
Image suggestion (place near this section): photo of a plain dog-safe plate (small pieces of turkey, carrots, and pumpkin puree) on a neutral background.
Foods That Are Dangerous (Keep Them Away)
Certain Thanksgiving staples pose a significant risk to dogs. Store these items out of reach and inform guests not to offer them.
Onions, Garlic, Leeks, and Chives
Allium vegetables and powders can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in dogs. They are toxic in raw, cooked, or powdered form; even small amounts can accumulate risk over time.
Reference: Garlic Toxicity (VCA)
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs; there is no established safe threshold. Any dish containing grapes or raisins (stuffing, fruit salad, desserts) should be kept away from pets.
Chocolate, Sweets, and Xylitol
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine and is toxic. Sugar-free desserts or gum may contain xylitol, which causes rapid insulin release and can lead to hypoglycemia and liver failure. Avoid all such items.
Fatty Foods, Skin, Gravy and Cooked Bones
High-fat foods, turkey skin, pan drippings and gravy can provoke pancreatitis — an inflammatory, potentially serious condition. Cooked bones may splinter and cause choking, perforation, or intestinal obstruction. If a dog has ingested large quantities of fat or a cooked bone, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Raw Yeast Dough
Unbaked bread dough with yeast is hazardous: it can expand in the stomach, cause severe bloating, and produce alcohol that leads to alcohol toxicity. Keep raw dough and mixing bowls out of reach.
Sample “Dog-Friendly” Thanksgiving Plate
Use the following as a guideline for a single small serving (adjust by weight and individual health):
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Turkey breast, plain — 1–2 small bites
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Green beans, plain — small handful
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Carrots, cooked or raw — few sticks
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Plain mashed potato — 1 tablespoon (plain only)
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Pumpkin puree — 1 teaspoon (plain canned pumpkin, not pie filling)
Serve separately in your dog’s regular bowl away from the table to reduce begging and accidental access to unsafe items. For dogs with health conditions, consult your veterinarian before offering new human foods.
Prevention and Emergency Preparedness
Simple precautions reduce emergencies:
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Seal trash and dispose of bones and fatty scraps safely.
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Ask guests not to hand-feed the dog.
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Provide an appropriate long-lasting chew or stuffed toy during dinner.
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Keep counters and tables clear of plates and discarded items.
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Know emergency contacts: Pet Poison Helpline and ASPCA Animal Poison Control offer 24/7 resources.
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance or is showing abnormal signs (vomiting, severe diarrhea, tremors, weakness, difficulty breathing, seizures, abdominal distention), contact your veterinarian or an animal poison hotline immediately. Have the ingredient list or packaging available if possible.
Emergency resources to bookmark
Bonus Tips
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Plan a dog-safe “leftovers” container before the meal: set aside small portions of plain turkey and vegetables to give your dog later.
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Avoid table scraps for dogs with sensitive digestion or pancreatitis history. Even otherwise safe foods can trigger problems in susceptible animals. Pet Poison Helpline
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Train in advance. A short “place” or “bed” command practiced before the meal helps reduce table approaches and improves safety.
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First aid kit. Keep basic supplies and your vet’s emergency contact prominently displayed.
How to Include Your Dog (Without Food Risks)
If you want your dog to be part of the day without sharing food: pick a quiet spot with a favorite toy, schedule a family walk after the meal, or have a photo session with seasonal props.
Keep Your Dog Entertained
Distract your dog from begging at the table with chew toys or a walk before the meal. A mentally engaged dog is less likely to seek food from guests.
For more helpful guidance:
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FAQs
Can dogs eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Yes! Plain, boneless, skinless cooked turkey in small amounts is acceptable. Avoid skin, gravy, seasoned meat, and cooked bones.
What Thanksgiving foods are poisonous to dogs?
Onions, garlic, grapes/raisins, chocolate, xylitol (in sugar-free products), alcohol, and raw yeast dough are among the most dangerous.
Is pumpkin pie okay for dogs?
No. Pumpkin pie contains sugar and spices such as nutmeg that can be harmful. Use plain canned pumpkin (unsweetened) as a safe alternative in small amounts.
What should I do if my dog eats something toxic?
Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line immediately; monitor symptoms and provide ingredient details if available.
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