Keep an eye on your Thanksgiving spread! Dogs may find the feast as tempting as we do—ensure they can't sneak a bite of unsafe foods.
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, indulging in delicious food, and enjoying festive decorations—but for dog owners, it also comes with some unique challenges. With the holiday bustle, it’s easy to overlook potential hazards for our furry friends, from tempting but dangerous foods to seasonal plants and décor that can be harmful. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or a cozy get-together, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your dog stays safe and comfortable amidst the holiday excitement. Here are some essential Thanksgiving safety tips to keep your pup out of harm’s way and let you both enjoy a worry-free holiday!
Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog
With so many delicious dishes on the table, it’s tempting to share a taste with your furry friend. However, certain foods can pose serious health risks to dogs, so it’s essential to know what to avoid and what safe alternatives you can offer instead.
Toxic Foods
Thanksgiving tables are often packed with foods that are delicious for us but dangerous for dogs. Watch out for common holiday items that can be toxic to pets, including turkey bones, which can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Onions, garlic, and chives—all found in many holiday dishes—can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Sweet treats like chocolate are off-limits too, as even small amounts can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, avoid giving them grapes or raisins, which can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.
High-Fat and Salty Foods
Thanksgiving favorites like gravy, stuffing, butter, and other high-fat or salty foods might be tempting to share, but these can lead to stomach upset or more serious issues in dogs. Foods high in fat can cause pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that requires immediate veterinary care. Salty foods can also cause problems by disrupting your dog’s electrolyte balance, which can lead to dehydration and other health complications. It’s best to keep these rich foods out of reach and focus on healthier alternatives.
Safer Alternatives
If you want your dog to join in on the Thanksgiving fun, offer dog-safe snacks or homemade treats. A few bites of plain, cooked sweet potatoes, green beans, or carrots can be safe and satisfying options for your pet. You can also make a small “Thanksgiving” plate with these plain veggies or try a DIY dog-friendly treat, such as pumpkin purée mixed with a bit of unsweetened applesauce. Just make sure any treat you share is free from added sugars, spices, and oils, letting your pup enjoy a special, safe snack along with the family.
Provide your dog with safe, holiday-themed toys to keep them entertained while you enjoy your meal.
Holiday Decorations and Plants to Keep Away from Dogs
While holiday decorations make your home feel festive, they can also pose risks for your curious pup. From toxic plants to tempting decorations, a few precautions can help keep your dog safe (and your decor intact!).
Dangerous Plants
Some traditional holiday plants are surprisingly toxic to dogs. Poinsettias, while beautiful, can cause mild stomach upset and irritation if ingested, and lilies are far more dangerous, potentially leading to kidney failure. Holly and mistletoe are also best kept out of reach, as both can cause serious gastrointestinal issues if chewed on. If you’re using plants to decorate, opt for pet-safe varieties, or place toxic plants in areas your dog can’t access.
Decorations and Small Objects
Holiday decorations are often filled with items that can attract a curious pup but lead to trouble if ingested. Small decorative items, fragile ornaments, and loose pieces like tinsel can all pose choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages. Candles, if left unattended, are not only a fire hazard but also dangerous if your dog gets too close and knocks them over. Electrical cords for lights or other decor can also be tempting for dogs to chew, leading to potential shocks or burns. Keep these items out of reach to avoid accidents—and to protect your beautiful decor from puppy curiosity.
Puppy-Proofing the Decor
To keep your dog safe and your decorations intact, try a few simple puppy-proofing tips. Place any plants or small, fragile items up high or in secure locations your pup can’t reach. Use cord protectors to shield electrical cords, or tape them down along walls where your dog won’t easily find them. And remember, a curious pup exploring new holiday sights might knock a few things over, so keep valuable or fragile items in pet-safe zones to avoid mishaps. After all, keeping your decor (and your dog!) safe during the holidays is all part of a pet parent’s festive preparations.
Create a safe space for your dog away from the hustle and bustle to ensure they feel calm and secure during the celebrations.
Puppy-Proofing Tips for Thanksgiving Day
With the excitement of guests, food, and activity, Thanksgiving can be a lot for a dog to handle. A few extra steps can help keep your pup safe and comfortable throughout the day.
Food Placement and Table Access
Keeping food out of reach is key to preventing your dog from helping themselves to a Thanksgiving feast. Be mindful of placing food and drinks on high surfaces, away from the edges of tables or counters, where a curious nose or a sneaky paw might reach. Consider setting up a boundary around dining areas or using baby gates to limit your dog’s access to food-rich zones. This will help keep both the food and your dog safe.
Guest Awareness
While many guests mean well, some might not realize the potential dangers of sharing holiday treats with your dog. Politely remind everyone not to feed your pet, even if it’s just “a little taste.” Sharing certain foods or scraps can quickly lead to upset stomachs or more serious health issues, so it’s best to keep your pup on a safe, dog-friendly diet. Providing a few pre-approved dog treats for guests to give can also be a fun way to include your dog safely in the festivities.
Managing Excitement and Anxiety
Thanksgiving gatherings can be overwhelming for some dogs, especially with all the new sights, sounds, and smells. Create a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your dog can retreat if they need a break from the action. This space can include a cozy bed, toys, and maybe a favorite blanket to help them feel secure. Offering a chew or puzzle toy can also be a great way to keep them engaged and calm if they’re feeling anxious. Giving them a little “holiday retreat” will help make Thanksgiving enjoyable for everyone—guests and pets alike.
Have a Safe and Happy Holiday!
By taking a few precautions, you can make Thanksgiving a safe and happy holiday for both your family and your dog. From choosing pet-friendly treats to puppy-proofing your home and setting clear boundaries with guests, these simple steps will help you avoid holiday mishaps and keep everyone—including your pup—feeling comfortable and relaxed.
As you gather with loved ones, remember that a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a worry-free holiday for you and your furry friend. Enjoy your Thanksgiving celebration knowing that your dog is safe, happy, and ready to share in the festivities by your side!
For more information on keeping your dog safe, check out these articles:
Porch Potty's Guide to Puppy Proofing Your Home
Top 5 Puppy Behaviors to Fix: Stop Biting, Barking, and More