Happy Howlidays, friends!
In this blog post, we're focusing on the holiday foods that are safe (and unsafe) for your pup to enjoy during the festivities! Read through to the end for a list of holiday plants that should be kept out of reach of pets.  

All in Moderation

When it comes to introducing new foods to your dog, remember that moderation is key. Rather than giving your pup a whole slice of turkey, try offering a few small, lean pieces instead. While sharing a little holiday cheer with your pet is great, it’s important not to overdo it—especially with fatty foods. Overindulging in new or rich foods can lead to digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis. Keep treats small and spread out throughout the day, even on Thanksgiving!  

Foods to Avoid

Certain holiday foods can pose a real danger to your pup. Here’s a list of items to steer clear of:  

  • Onions/Scallions
  • Grapes/Raisins
  • Walnuts & Macadamia Nuts
  • Cooked Bones
  • Fatty Foods (like butter, gravy, or fatty meats)
  • Alcohol
  • Chocolate
  • Caffeine
  • Yeast Dough
  • Foods high in sugar or salt

Safe Holiday Foods to Share

While some holiday foods are off-limits, there are plenty of dog-friendly options you can share. Just make sure they’re served plain, without added fat, salt, or sweeteners:  

  • Broccoli
  • Apple pieces (no core)
  • Lean turkey (no bones or skin)
  • Cooked/boiled turkey gizzards
  • Pumpkin
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Green beans
  • Carrots
  • Green peas
  • Cranberries
  • Cooked potatoes
  • Butternut squash
  • Bone broth (NOT gravy, no onion or sodium)

Fun & Easy Thanksgiving Recipes for Your Pup

Sharing safe, wholesome foods with your dog can be fun—and healthy! Here are some simple and tasty ideas to make your dog’s Thanksgiving extra special:  

  • Keepin' It Simple: Start with your dog's usual meal, then drizzle dog-safe bone broth (no onion or sodium) over the food. Let it soak for about 10 minutes for an extra flavor boost.  

  • Gobble This Treat: Raw or freeze-dried chicken, duck, or turkey necks make a great treat, perfect for chewing and full of healthy nutrients. Remember—never feed cooked bones!  

  • Turkey Nugget Treat: Add some freeze-dried raw turkey nuggets to your dog’s dinner, along with a little bone broth. Let the broth soak into the nuggets, then mix in a spoonful of pureéd pumpkin before serving.  

  • Squash Delight: Spread plain mashed butternut squash (or a fresh squash blend from The Green Spot) onto a licki mat or into a bowl, then top it with raw goat’s milk for a creamy, healthy treat.  

  • Turducken Freeze: Mix turkey bone broth with wet chicken food, then stuff the mixture into a Toppl toy. Stick a freeze-dried raw duck neck in the middle and freeze it for a fun and festive challenge.  

  • Food Toy Stuffing: Fill half of your dog’s usual dinner into a food toy like the West Paw Toppl. Add some pureéd pumpkin and other fresh Thanksgiving foods, then freeze the toy to make it last longer.  

  • Licki Mat Delight: Spread part of your dog’s dinner on a licki mat, add fresh Thanksgiving foods, and pour on a little bone broth. Freeze the mat to give your pup a fun and satisfying meal during dinner.  

      

When Not to Share

If your dog has a history of pancreatitis or other health concerns, introducing new foods should be done with caution. In such cases, sticking with their regular food, moistened with water and a splash of dog-safe bone broth, is a safer option. You can freeze the mixture in a food toy for a special holiday snack.  

Dangerous Holiday Plants to Keep Out of Reach

Some holiday plants can be harmful—or even deadly—for your pets. Be sure to keep these plants out of reach or avoid bringing them into your home altogether:  

  • Lilies (extremely toxic to cats, causing kidney failure)
  • Amaryllis (can cause vomiting and diarrhea)
  • Yew greenery (toxic to both dogs and cats, can cause seizures)
  • Holly & Mistletoe (may lead to vomiting and diarrhea)
  • Christmas tree needles & water (can cause stomach irritation and contain toxins)
  • Poinsettia (mildly toxic, causing gastrointestinal upset)

      

The Green Spot is a family-owned, independent pet supply shop. Since 2012, we've been helping pet parents like you aid their pets to a better life through nutrition. We're glad you found us and hope you'll come into our store for a visit! Our inclusive events, supportive pet-parent community, and certified pet nutrition pros are what set us apart—thanks for supporting local!