Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved holidays in the United State. It is a day centered around gratitude, family, and of course, food. As households fill with the aroma of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and fresh-baked pies, dogs eagerly take their place in the festivities. Our four-legged companions are part of the family, and Thanksgiving offers a perfect opportunity to include them in meaningful, safe, and fun ways.
Whether you're hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Thanksgiving with your dog while keeping them healthy, happy, and stress-free.
While your dog shouldn’t eat everything on the Thanksgiving table, there are plenty of safe, delicious foods they can enjoy.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs (in moderation):
Foods to Avoid:
A fun idea is to prepare a small Thanksgiving dog bowl with a few bites of safe foods so they feel included.
Before the big meal, take your dog on a longer-than-usual walk or play an active game in the yard. This helps burn off energy, reduce stress during busy gatherings, support digestion, and keep your dog calm while guests arrive. A Thanksgiving morning walk is also a great moment for gratitude and bonding.
Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming with new people, smells, noises, and activity. Set up a quiet area with their bed or crate, fresh water, favorite toys, and a chew or treat to keep them occupied. This gives your dog a place to relax if the festivities get too energetic.
A few simple ways to make your dog part of the celebration:
It’s a fun holiday, but also one of the most common for emergency vet visits. Keep an eye on trash cans for turkey bones, string, wrappers, dropped food, guests feeding scraps (“just a little” can cause stomach issues), and decorations that can be chewed or swallowed. A little prevention goes a long way.
After dinner, relax on the couch with your dog. Offer a safe chew, a lick mat with plain pumpkin, or a tiny portion of plain leftover turkey for them to enjoy while you watch football or a holiday movie. Thanksgiving is, at its heart, about connection, and dogs bring warmth to those quiet moments.
Thanksgiving with your dog is a beautiful way to honor the companionship and unconditional love they bring into your life. With a little planning, you can ensure your holiday is joyful, safe, and inclusive for every family member, furry ones included. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to be grateful for the wagging tails, happy snuggles, and everyday joy your dog brings. They’re grateful for you, too.
