Thanksgiving is meant to be a time for gathering with family, friends—and often pets—to celebrate gratitude. But every holiday looks different: some people spend it alone, some feel anxious about larger family gatherings, and others prefer a low-key Friendsgiving with close friends. No matter how you plan to spend the day, this guide will help you create a safe, calm, and meaningful Thanksgiving with your dog.
EDUCATE YOURSELF ABOUT DOG-FRIENDLY AND DANGEROUS FOODS
Food is central to Thanksgiving, and while many seasonal fruits, vegetables, and grains can be healthy for dogs, they must be plain and unseasoned. For instance, plain cooked sweet potatoes are fine, but candied yams are not. Safe options for dogs—when served plain and without seasoning—include:
- Cooked sweet potatoes or regular potatoes (no butter, sugar, or marshmallows)
- Fresh apples (cored and sliced)
- Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
- Green beans
- Peas
- Plain yogurt (unsweetened, no artificial sweeteners)
- Boneless, skinless turkey meat (fully cooked, no seasoning)
Equally important is knowing what to avoid. Foods that can make dogs seriously ill include:
- Bones, fatty skin, or rich gravies
- Onions and garlic, including powders
- Raisins and grapes
- Alcoholic beverages
- Sweets like pies, cookies, and chocolate
- Uncooked yeast dough
- High-fat or heavily seasoned prepared dishes (casseroles, creamed vegetables)
- Ham and most types of stuffing
Emergency veterinary visits rise during the holidays because pets often get table scraps. To reduce temptation, feed your dog a regular, nutritious meal before guests sit down and consider giving them an approved treat or chew that keeps them occupied during dinner.
SET CLEAR GUEST GUIDELINES FOR YOUR DOG
Whether you are hosting or visiting, tell guests your house rules for interacting with your dog. Clear instructions keep everyone—and your pet—safe. Important points to communicate:
- Do not feed the dog any human food unless you explicitly approve a specific plain item
- Keep doors closed as directed to prevent the dog from running out
- Watch the trash—tell guests who is responsible for emptying it and where to place bags so dogs can’t access scraps
- Avoid leaving food unattended on tables or counters
- Let guests know if your dog is nervous around children, strangers, or other animals
REDUCE YOUR DOG’S ANXIETY WHEN GUESTS ARRIVE
If your dog struggles with anxiety, consider leaving them home from a busy gathering when possible. If they will attend, plan ahead to keep stress low:
- Discuss calming options with your veterinarian—this might include prescribed medication or vet-recommended calming treats
- Create a quiet, comfortable retreat with a bed and familiar items where your dog can relax away from the crowd
- Check in with your dog regularly to offer reassurance and brief calm interaction
- Inform guests about your dog’s needs so they don’t inadvertently cause stress
PLAY WITH YOUR DOG BEFORE DINNER TO USE UP ENERGY
Active play before the main meal helps your dog burn energy and makes them more likely to settle calmly while people eat. A brisk walk, fetch, or a short session of tug-of-war can make a big difference. Consider two play sessions—one before guests arrive and one before the meal—to keep your dog relaxed and focused. Tired dogs are less likely to beg or get into trouble.
OFFER A DENTAL CHEW OR APPROVED TREAT AFTER DINNER
After the meal, a long-lasting dental chew or vet-approved treat can reward your dog and help keep their teeth clean. Choose a product designed for dental health and appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Giving a chew while guests continue socializing can also keep your dog occupied and out of the way.
END THE DAY WITH A CALM WALK
Finish Thanksgiving with a peaceful walk in the crisp evening air. Walking together offers quiet time to reflect and relax after a busy day, while giving your dog exercise and a chance to relieve themselves before bedtime. A short post-meal walk helps digestion for both you and your pet and reinforces the bond you share.
With a little planning—mindful feeding, clear guest rules, attention to anxiety, and active play—you can enjoy a warm, safe, and meaningful Thanksgiving with your dog. Small preparations help ensure the day stays healthy and peaceful for everyone involved.