Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. As you gather around the table to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast, it’s important to remember that not all foods are safe for your furry friends. While it may be tempting to share some of your Thanksgiving meal with your dog, there are certain foods that should be avoided.

One of the most common Thanksgiving foods that can be harmful to dogs is turkey skin and bones. The skin is often seasoned with garlic, onions, and other spices, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Another food to avoid sharing with your dog is stuffing. Many stuffing recipes contain onions, garlic, and other ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Additionally, the high fat content of stuffing can lead to pancreatitis in dogs.

Cranberry sauce is another Thanksgiving food that should not be shared with your dog. While cranberries themselves are not toxic to dogs, the high sugar content of cranberry sauce can cause digestive upset and lead to obesity.

Lastly, be sure to keep desserts like pumpkin pie away from your dog. Pumpkin itself is safe for dogs in moderation, but many pumpkin pie recipes contain ingredients like sugar, spices, and even chocolate, which can be toxic to dogs.

While it can be difficult to resist those pleading eyes, it’s important to prioritize your dog’s health and safety. Instead of sharing these Thanksgiving foods with your furry friend, consider treating them to some dog-friendly Thanksgiving alternatives, such as cooked sweet potatoes, plain turkey meat, or green beans.