Thanksgiving brings great food, family time, and a lot of excitement—especially for pets. Every year around this time, one of the most common search questions pet owners ask is: “What Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs?”
Whether you’re a long-time dog owner, a new adopter, or hosting a foster pup for the holidays, here’s everything you need to know to keep the day safe and stress-free. As a rescue serving the Dallas and greater DFW community, DSDA loves providing helpful resources for pet families during the holidays.
What Thanksgiving Foods Are Safe for Dogs?
Some Thanksgiving foods are perfectly safe in moderation. Others can be harmful—or even toxic. Here’s what dog owners search for most this time of year:
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs (in moderation):
Plain, cooked turkey (white meat only):
- No skin
- No seasoning
- Remove all bones
Plain vegetables:
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Plain pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
- Sweet potatoes (plain, no butter, sugar, or spices)
Small amount of plain mashed potatoes:
- Only if made without garlic, onions, cream, butter, or sour cream.
Apples (without seeds or core)
- A light, crunchy treat.
Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Should Avoid (or Never Eat):
Turkey skin, dark meat, and fatty scraps
Can lead to stomach upset or pancreatitis.
Turkey bones
Cooked bones splinter easily and are dangerous.
Stuffing & casseroles
Often contain onions, garlic, butter, oils, and spices.
Onions, garlic, leeks, chives
Toxic to dogs—even in small amounts.
Desserts & baked goods:
- Pumpkin pie
- Chocolate
- Raisins or grapes (highly toxic)
- Anything containing xylitol
Alcohol
Never safe for pets.
When in doubt, go with a simple, plain “pup plate” — it’s the safest way to include your dog in the celebration.
Want Seasonal Dog Treat Ideas?
For fun fall-themed treats you can give on Thanksgiving too, check out our Halloween blog post. Many of those simple, wholesome ingredients work perfectly for a safe holiday snack.
Hosting Thanksgiving? Help Your Dog Stay Calm Around Guests
Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming even for well-adjusted pets. For newly adopted rescue dogs or foster dogs, it may be their first big household celebration — which means new smells, new people, and a lot happening at once.
Signs Your Dog May Be Stressed or Overstimulated:
- Yawning or lip licking
- Pacing or hiding
- Avoiding eye contact
- Shaking or drooling
- Freezing or refusing to approach
- Growling or snapping (a fear response, not “bad behavior”)
Tips to Help Your Dog Stay Comfortable:
Create a quiet space
Set up a spare room, crate, or gated area where they can decompress.
Stick to their routine
Consistent walks, potty breaks, and feeding times help keep them grounded.
Give them enrichment
Kongs, snuffle mats, lick mats, or puzzle toys can help during busy cooking hours.
Be mindful of the front door
With guests coming and going, dogs can slip out quickly.
Limit introductions if needed
Your dog doesn’t have to greet every guest. Give them space when they ask for it.
These tips can help make the holiday less overwhelming for both seasoned pets and brand-new rescue dogs.
A Thanksgiving Message From DSDA
This season reminds us how grateful we are for our incredible community. Whether you’re in Dallas, the DFW area, or cheering us on from afar, your support helps us rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs who need it most.
To our adopters, fosters, donors, volunteers, partners, and followers—thank you. The dogs you help save are grateful too. Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving.
With gratitude,
The DSDA Team