Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course — food. But as delicious aromas fill the house, it’s natural to wonder if your dog can enjoy a little taste of the holiday too. The good news is that turkey can be a safe and healthy treat for dogs — as long as it’s prepared the right way.
Here’s everything you need to know about sharing Thanksgiving dinner safely with your pup.
🐶 The Good News: Turkey Is a Great Source of Protein
Turkey is a lean, high-quality protein that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your dog. When cooked plain and served in moderation, it can:
- Support healthy muscle development 🦴
- Boost energy levels ⚡️
- Promote a shiny coat and healthy skin ✨
That’s why many commercial dog foods already use turkey as a main ingredient — it’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and low in fat.
⚠️ The Bad News: The Way We Cook It Matters
While the bird itself is fine, our holiday recipes are not. Most Thanksgiving turkeys are roasted with butter, oils, salt, and seasonings like garlic or onions — all of which can be harmful to dogs.
Here’s what to avoid:
🚫 Garlic and onions – toxic to dogs even in small amounts
🚫 Gravy and drippings – high in salt and fat
🚫 Stuffing – often contains butter, herbs, and onions
🚫 Turkey skin – greasy and difficult to digest
🚫 Bones – especially cooked bones, which can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries
Bottom line: Plain, unseasoned turkey meat is safe — but skip the sides and extras.
🥩 How to Serve Turkey Safely
If you want your pup to join in the Thanksgiving feast, follow these simple steps:
- Use plain, cooked turkey only. No seasoning, oils, or butter.
- Remove all skin and bones. Stick to white meat for lower fat content.
- Serve small portions. A few bite-sized pieces are plenty.
- Skip the leftovers. Avoid anything that’s been mixed with sides or sauces.
You can even mix a little turkey into your dog’s regular meal with plain pumpkin, peas, or carrots for a wholesome Thanksgiving-inspired dinner.
🥕 Bonus: Dog-Safe Thanksgiving Foods
If you’re feeling festive, here are a few other foods your pup can enjoy in moderation:
- Plain pumpkin 🎃
- Cooked carrots and green beans 🥕
- Mashed sweet potatoes (no butter or sugar) 🍠
- Apple slices (no seeds) 🍎
These simple ingredients add variety and nutrition without upsetting your dog’s stomach.
🚨 Watch for Signs of Overindulgence
If your dog sneaks a little too much from the table, watch for:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Bloated or painful belly
If any of these symptoms appear, contact your veterinarian right away.
🧡 A Thanksgiving Reminder
Sharing Thanksgiving with your dog can be joyful and heartwarming — just remember that what’s safe for us isn’t always safe for them. Stick to plain, lean turkey, avoid rich sides, and keep bones out of reach.
With a few simple precautions, your pup can enjoy a taste of the holiday right alongside the family — safely and happily.
Want to skip the kitchen work and treat your dog to a ready-made, dog-safe Thanksgiving meal?
🦃 Pre-order your Wags Bakery Thanksgiving Dog Meal here: Order Now → wagsbakery.shop
Each purchase helps support the Champaign County Animal Welfare League (CCAWL) — because gratitude tastes even better when it gives back. 💛