Thanksgiving tables across America are set with roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pies, but a pair of hopeful eyes often watch from below. Dogs deserve to be part of this cherished celebration too. After all, who shows more genuine gratitude throughout the year than loyal companions?
The holiday season brings families together, and in 65% of American households with pets, dogs are absolutely family members. Creating special moments with a dog during Thanksgiving isn’t just enjoyable—it actually strengthens the bond through shared experiences. Like the timeless tradition of watching the National Dog Show on Thanksgiving Day, these rituals become something both humans and dogs can look forward to year after year.
How to Include Your Dog in Thanksgiving Traditions
There are many ways to make your canine companion feel special during this season of gratitude.
Create Dog-Friendly Gatherings
Hosting a dog-friendly Friendsgiving is popular among pet owners wanting their dogs to socialize. Invite guests to bring their well-behaved dogs along with a dish to share. Conversations often flow more naturally with dogs around, serving as ice-breakers for guests meeting for the first time.
For those concerned about having multiple dogs at an event, designated pet zones with comfortable beds and water stations can maintain order while keeping dogs included. The National Dog Show on Thanksgiving Day serves as perfect background entertainment for both humans and canines.
Active Holiday Engagement
Mental and physical stimulation are crucial for dogs during holidays. A Thanksgiving-themed treat hunt engages their natural foraging instincts. Hide pet-safe treats around your yard or home and encourage your dog to find them—it’s the canine equivalent of a treasure hunt, keeping them mentally sharp and active.
An autumn leaf chase in the backyard combines seasonal elements with playful exercise. Tossing leaves in the air can create an exciting game that burns energy before the main meal. For energetic dogs, this activity helps prevent disruptive behavior during dinner.
Meaningful Inclusion
Many families now include their dogs in Thanksgiving group photos, creating lasting memories that acknowledge their importance in the family unit. Whether dressed in a Thanksgiving dog sweater or in their everyday collar, these photos document your pet’s role in family traditions.
Some families create a moment of gratitude focused on their pets. Sharing why you’re thankful for your dog honors their place in your life and teaches children to express appreciation for the love pets provide. This quiet tradition can become a meaningful part of the celebration.
What are Safe Thanksgiving Foods For Dogs and What can Dogs Eat on Thanksgiving?
As families gather around the table for Thanksgiving, those pleading puppy eyes can be hard to resist. Sharing the holiday spirit with dogs is natural, but navigating which foods are safe requires careful consideration. Turkey Day can be enjoyable for a dog with the right choices—and potentially dangerous with the wrong ones.
According to veterinary research, dogs can safely enjoy several traditional Thanksgiving foods when properly prepared, while others pose serious health risks. The key is knowing the difference and serving appropriate portions to avoid digestive upset.
Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Can Safely Enjoy
When prepared properly, these foods make excellent additions to a dog’s holiday bowl:
- Plain turkey meat: White meat turkey (boneless and skinless) provides lean protein. Remove all skin, bones, and fat, and ensure it’s fully cooked but unseasoned. The white meat contains less fat than dark meat, making it a healthier option.
- Green beans: Whether fresh, frozen, or canned (low-sodium), plain green beans offer fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying crunch. Their low calorie count makes them perfect for dogs watching their weight.
- Sweet potatoes: Rich in vitamins and fiber, plain cooked sweet potatoes (without butter, sugar, or marshmallows) make a nutritious treat. Chop them into small, easily digestible pieces to prevent choking hazards.
- Plain pumpkin: Unsweetened canned pumpkin (not pie filling) supports digestive health with fiber and nutrients. Many dogs enjoy the taste, and it can even help with mild digestive issues.
- Carrots: These crunchy vegetables provide vitamin A and help clean teeth. Serve them cooked or raw, cut into appropriate sizes.
- Plain mashed potatoes: Without butter, milk, garlic, or seasoning, plain mashed potatoes can be a safe treat in small amounts.
Moderation is crucial, even with dog nutrition-friendly options. Too much of anything new can upset a dog’s stomach during holiday celebrations.
Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Should Never Eat
Keep these dangerous foods far from the dog:
- Turkey bones: These can splinter and cause tears or blockages in a dog’s digestive tract, potentially requiring emergency surgery.
- Stuffing and casseroles: Often contain onions, garlic, and herbs toxic to dogs. The ingredients in green bean casserole can cause anemia in dogs.
- Grapes and raisins: Even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Keep fruit salads and desserts containing these away from pets.
- Chocolate and desserts: Theobromine in chocolate is toxic, and many desserts contain xylitol, which can cause liver failure and dangerously low blood sugar.
- Fatty foods: Turkey skin, gravy, and ham can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar, body temperature, and coordination.
Emergency veterinary visits spike during the holiday season due to unsafe consumption. Keeping these items away ensures no unexpected vet visits during celebrations.
Creating a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Plate
Want to include your dog in the celebration safely? Try these approaches:
- Designated dog dish: Create a special Thanksgiving plate with safe items, served in their regular bowl to avoid confusion with human plates.
- Proper portions: Limit holiday treats to no more than 10% of daily caloric intake to prevent weight gain and digestive issues.
- Simple homemade treats: Bake dog-friendly pumpkin biscuits by combining 2 cups whole wheat flour, ½ cup plain canned pumpkin, and 2 eggs. Form into shapes, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, and cool completely.
- Sweet potato chews: Slice sweet potatoes into ¼-inch strips, bake at 250°F for 3 hours until chewy but not brittle for a holiday-appropriate pet-safe food.
Planning with these options lets a dog safely enjoy the festivities without health risks. Some dogs may be sensitive to new foods, so introduce holiday treats gradually.
Signs Your Dog Might Need Veterinary Care
If a dog consumes something questionable during the national dog show Thanksgiving day broadcast or sneaks food from an unattended plate, watch for these warning signs:
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Lethargy or unusual behavior
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures or tremors
Keep the veterinarian’s contact information and the nearest emergency clinic number handy during the holiday season. Quick action can be crucial if a dog consumes something toxic.
Thoughtful choices about Thanksgiving foods allow families to include dogs in celebrations without compromising their health. Showing love to dogs means protecting them from potential dangers while finding safe ways to share holiday traditions.
What are Fun Thanksgiving-themed Activities for Dogs?
Thanksgiving isn’t just for humans—dogs deserve to join the celebration too! Including dogs in holiday festivities strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. Nearly 60% of dog owners already include their pets in family activities, making Thanksgiving the perfect opportunity to try something special together.
The season offers unique opportunities for engagement that go beyond the ordinary walk. With a little creativity, falling leaves and holiday traditions can become adventures that will have dogs’ tails wagging non-stop.
Autumn Leaf Chase
Watching a dog bound through piles of colorful autumn leaves is magical. This simple activity taps into a dog’s natural playfulness while providing excellent exercise. Find a safe area with fallen leaves, ensure there are no hidden hazards like sticks or rocks, and encourage dogs to chase toys tossed into the pile. The crunching sound and varied textures provide sensory enrichment most dogs find irresistible.
Thanksgiving Treat Hunt
Transform a home or yard into a Thanksgiving dog food scavenger hunt! Hide small treats in various locations and let dogs’ powerful noses lead the way. Using turkey or pumpkin-flavored treats adds a festive touch to this mentally stimulating activity. For added challenge, use treat-dispensing toys shaped like holiday symbols. This combines dogs’ natural hunting instincts with problem-solving skills, keeping them engaged while preparing the holiday feast.
Turkey-Themed Tug Games
Special Thanksgiving dog toys like turkey-shaped stuffed animals or rope toys make for fantastic interactive play. A good game of tug provides physical exercise and strengthens the bond between owners and dogs. Look for durable options with squeakers or crinkle features that can withstand enthusiastic play. These games are perfect for burning off energy before guests arrive or after dinner when everyone needs a break.
Pumpkin Scent Tracking
Challenge a dog’s impressive sense of smell with a pumpkin scent-tracking activity. Let them sniff a small piece of pumpkin, then hide pieces around the yard for them to find. This hones natural tracking abilities while incorporating a classic Thanksgiving ingredient. Remember that plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) is safe for dogs in moderation, making this activity both fun and a healthy treat.
Join a Thanksgiving Dog Parade or Turkey Trot
Many communities host pet-friendly Thanksgiving parades or morning turkey trots that welcome leashed dogs. These events provide socialization, exercise, and a festive atmosphere. Before the national dog show Thanksgiving Day broadcast begins, dogs could already have participated in a holiday event! Ensure dogs are comfortable with crowds and noise before attending, and bring water and waste bags.
Host a Backyard Puppy Bowl
While football dominates many Thanksgiving screens, organizing a puppy bowl with friends who have dogs can be fun. Set up a safe play area with Thanksgiving dog toys and invite a few canine companions for supervised play. This provides excellent socialization and burns energy while friends enjoy time together. Consider dressing participants in Thanksgiving dog sweaters for an adorable photo opportunity (ensure any clothing is comfortable and safe).
Post-Dinner Walk
After the meal, when everyone’s feeling full, invite family members to join you and your dog for a neighborhood stroll. This tradition benefits both human and canine digestive systems while creating an opportunity for quality time together. Dogs will appreciate stretching their legs and enjoying some fresh air amid the day’s excitement.
Remember that the goal of these activities is to include dogs in the holiday spirit while ensuring their safety and comfort. Choose options that match a dog’s personality and energy level, and always supervise play. With these engaging activities, the Thanksgiving celebration will be more active, joyful, and inclusive of all family members—including those with four paws!
How can you make your dog look festive with Thanksgiving dog clothes and sweaters?
Thanksgiving gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to include dogs in the holiday spirit. Dressing a pet in seasonal attire not only creates adorable photos but also makes them part of the celebration. The market for pet holiday wear has grown dramatically, with options ranging from subtle to showstopping.
Choosing the Right Thanksgiving Outfit
When selecting Thanksgiving dog clothes, prioritize comfort and safety. Look for sweaters made from soft, breathable materials like cotton, fleece, or velvet that won’t irritate the dog’s skin. Many brands design products with both fashion and function in mind, ensuring comfort throughout the festivities.
Turkey-patterned sweaters with autumn colors are popular for the holiday. Some feature embroidered designs with pumpkins, maple leaves, or “Happy Thanksgiving” messages. For dogs who prefer minimal coverage, consider a festive bandana with fall motifs that’s less restrictive and still seasonal.
Safety Considerations
Safety should never be secondary to style. Before purchasing any outfit, check for small decorative elements that could become choking hazards. Buttons, loose threads, and small embellishments might look cute but pose serious risks if chewed off. The national dog show Thanksgiving Day broadcast often features dogs in their natural state for good reason—health comes first.
Always monitor dogs while they’re wearing any clothing. If they show signs of distress like excessive panting, trying to remove the outfit, or unusual behavior, take it off immediately. The outfit should allow full range of motion without restricting breathing, walking, or bathroom breaks.
Alternatives to Full Outfits
Not every dog tolerates clothing, and that’s fine. For dogs who resist full outfits, there are many festive alternatives. Thanksgiving-themed collars with fall colors or turkey motifs offer holiday spirit without the bulk of a sweater. Even a simple autumn-colored bow tie can make a dog look celebration-ready while keeping them comfortable.
Your dog’s comfort with clothes may depend on previous exposure. Some dogs need gradual introduction to wearing outfits, starting with short periods and positive reinforcement. The goal is to make them feel special, not stressed, during Thanksgiving food preparation and festivities.
DIY Thanksgiving Dog Wear
If crafting appeals, consider making a custom Thanksgiving accessory for a dog. A homemade bandana from fall-patterned fabric requires minimal sewing skills and can be personalized to the dog’s size. This approach allows control over the materials used while creating something unique.
When planning what dogs can eat on Thanksgiving alongside their festive attire, remember that safe Thanksgiving food for dogs is limited. The outfit might make them look like part of the feast, but their meal should remain dog-appropriate. This balanced approach ensures they’re included in both the visual and culinary aspects of the holiday, without compromising their health.
Celebrating Thanksgiving Safely and Joyfully With Your Dog
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to honor the special place a dog holds in the family, blending tradition and togetherness in ways that keep everyone safe and happy. By choosing dog-friendly foods, engaging in festive activities, and even dressing your dog in holiday attire, a four-legged companion can be included in every cherished moment. As families gather for festivities and explore the great outdoors this season, tools like the Halo Collar add peace of mind, allowing safe boundaries to be set and adventures to be enjoyed confidently, no matter how lively the celebration.
For more tips on keeping dogs healthy, safe, and included year-round, visit the Dog Health page.
