As you gather around the table for a delicious holiday feast, it’s natural to want to share a little something with your furry family member. But not all Thanksgiving favorites are safe for dogs. Knowing which treats to share—and which to avoid—is key to keeping your pup happy and healthy this season. At Dog City NYC, we’ve created this guide to help you navigate Thanksgiving foods for dogs so your pet can enjoy the holiday safely.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
Your dog can absolutely enjoy a taste of Thanksgiving—just make sure it’s prepared simply and without added seasoning, butter, or sauces. Here are a few Thanksgiving foods for dogs that are both tasty and safe:
Turkey (Plain, Cooked)
Lean turkey meat (without skin, bones, or gravy) is a great source of protein. It’s one of the safest Thanksgiving foods for dogs when served in moderation.
Sweet Potatoes
Packed with fiber and vitamins, plain cooked sweet potatoes are a healthy, dog-friendly side. Skip the marshmallows and sugar, though!
Pumpkin Purée
A spoonful of unsweetened pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) can aid digestion and give your dog a nutrient boost.
Green Beans
Steamed or raw green beans make a low-calorie snack that’s high in fiber and vitamins.
Apples
Slices of fresh apple (without seeds or core) add crunch and natural sweetness your dog will love.
Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Should Avoid
While it’s tempting to slip your dog a bite of everything on your plate, some holiday staples can be harmful—or even toxic—to pets. Here are the Thanksgiving foods for dogs to avoid:
Stuffing and Gravy
Both often contain onions, garlic, butter, and seasoning—all of which can upset your dog’s stomach or be toxic.
Turkey Skin and Bones
Turkey skin is high in fat and can lead to pancreatitis. Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
Mashed Potatoes with Add-Ins
Plain mashed potatoes are fine, but skip versions with butter, cream, salt, or garlic.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Even small amounts of these can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in dogs.
Desserts (Especially Pies)
Many holiday sweets contain sugar, spices, or xylitol (a common sugar substitute), which is highly toxic to dogs.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is about sharing love, gratitude, and good food—but keeping your dog safe comes first. With this guide to Thanksgiving foods for dogs, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday knowing exactly what’s safe to serve your pup. From all of us at Dog City NYC, have a happy, healthy, and tail-wagging Thanksgiving!
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