🦃 Thanksgiving Do’s & Don’ts for Dogs: A Holiday Guide for Pet Parents 🐾

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, gathering, and gravy—but for dogs, it can also be a whirlwind of smells, guests, and tempting table scraps. Whether you’re hosting a feast or traveling to visit family, here are some vet-approved do’s and don’ts to keep your pup safe, happy, and included in the holiday fun.

✅ DO: Create a Safe Spac

With guests coming and going, dogs can get overwhelmed or overstimulated. Set up a quiet, cozy retreat with their bed, favorite toys, and fresh water. This gives them a place to decompress when the festivities get loud.

❌ DON’T: Let Them Dart Out the Door

Increased foot traffic means more chances for dogs to slip outside unnoticed. Consider using baby gates or keeping your pup leashed during peak arrival times.

✅ DO: Offer Dog-Safe Treats

Want to include your pup in the feast? Stick to plain, boneless, fully cooked turkey (white meat only), unsweetened pumpkin, or steamed veggies like carrots and green beans. Better yet, prep a mini “dog plate” ahead of time so they don’t beg at the table.

❌ DON’T: Share Table Scraps

Many Thanksgiving staples contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs—onions, garlic, raisins, grapes, chocolate, and alcohol are all off-limits. Even fatty foods like turkey skin or buttery mashed potatoes can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis.

✅ DO: Keep Decorations Dog-Friendly

Avoid candles, breakable centerpieces, and dangling decor that curious pups might chew or knock over. If you’re using festive plants, double-check that they’re non-toxic to pets.

❌ DON’T: Leave Food Unattended

Dogs are opportunists. A counter full of cooling pies or a trash can stuffed with bones is an open invitation. Keep food covered and trash secured to avoid accidents.

✅ DO: Practice Manners & Commands

If your dog will be mingling with guests, brush up on basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” This helps them navigate the excitement with confidence—and keeps everyone safe.

❌ DON’T: Force Social Time

Not every dog loves a crowd. If your pup prefers quiet company or gets anxious around strangers, honor that. Let them opt out of the party and enjoy the holiday their way.

🐶 Final Thought: Gratitude Goes Both Ways

Thanksgiving is about celebrating what we’re thankful for—and for many of us, that includes our dogs. By keeping their needs in mind, we show them the same love and care they give us every day.

So go ahead: carve the turkey, pass the pie, and give your pup an extra snuggle. They’re family, after all.