As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us are planning our shopping lists and dreaming of our favorite holiday treats. It’s tempting to share the bounty with our beloved pups, but many Thanksgiving staples can be harmful to your pet. Consider adding these 8 dog-friendly treats to your family feast:

  1. Pumpkin: Packed with fiber, Vitamins A, C, E, and potassium. Pumpkin is a boon to a dog’s digestive health. If feeding canned pumpkin, choose pure pumpkin over pumpkin pie mix, which can have spices that are harmful to dogs. Serve as a topper or freeze on a licking mat for a frozen treat.
  2. Carrots: This vegetable is not only good for human eyesight, but dogs as well! Chewing on raw carrots can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
  3. Peanut Butter: Often a dog’s favorite human treat, peanut butter is full of fiber and protein. Check the label and avoid peanut butters with xylitol, which is harmful to dogs. You can fill a Kong toy with peanut butter, spread on a licking mat, or simply feed from a spoon.
  4. Green Beans: A healthy treat swap filled with Vitamins A and C, iron, and protein which all support a dog’s immune system and blood health. Plain green beans can be served chopped, raw, steamed or straight from the can.
  5. Apples: This fruit is filled with Vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber that support a dog’s digestive health. Pair with some peanut butter for an extra tasty snack.
  6. Cranberries: Although a little tart, a few cranberries as a treat are a boon to a dog’s urinary health. Fresh and dried cranberries are best as canned cranberry sauces or juice have lots of added sugar.
  7. Turkey: It’s packed with nutrients, protein, and flavor for dogs. Freshly cooked turkey or dried treats are a fantastic Thanksgiving treat. If feeding fresh turkey, serve plain and off the bone. Avoid spices and other added ingredients like onion that can be toxic to dogs.
  8. Sweet Potato: A fall favorite filled with disease-fighting Vitamin A and other minerals that are great for your dog’s digestive health and promotes healthy skin, coat, and eyes. Serve cubed or mashed as a delicious addition to their dinner.

While these foods are dog-friendly, consult your vet if your dog has food allergies, is on a special diet, or has other health issues that may be affected by a change in their food. Share this grocery list for dog-safe foods (embed Dogtopia grocery list) with your family and friends to help keep their dogs safe too this holiday.

Please let us know if your dog enjoyed these 8 Thanksgiving treats this holiday! If your pet is staying with us this Thanksgiving, we appreciate your business. We wish you, your family, and your pup a Happy Thanksgiving!