From Turkey to Tails: How to Make Thanksgiving Special for Your Dog

Ah, Thanksgiving—the time of year when we gather with family, friends, and our beloved pets to give thanks for all the good things in life (like that extra slice of pie!). But if you’re like most pet parents, you know that your dog deserves a seat at the table—if not literally, then at least in your heart! Here are some tips and precautions for celebrating Thanksgiving with your dog while keeping it fun, safe, and full of wagging tails.

1. Keep the Feast Safe!

Before you even think about sharing your Thanksgiving feast, let’s get one thing straight: not all human food is dog-friendly. Here’s a quick guide to what’s safe and what’s not:

• Safe Foods for Dogs:

  • Plain Turkey: A small piece of turkey (without skin or seasoning) is a tasty treat!
  • Sweet Potatoes: Dogs love these nutritious tubers, just make sure they’re plain and cooked.
  • Carrots and Green Beans: These veggies are great for dogs—just avoid butter and salt.

• Not Safe:

  • Turkey Skin and Bones: These can cause digestive issues or worse—no thank you!
  • Stuffing and Gravy: Often loaded with spices and fats that can upset your pup’s tummy.
  • Chocolate: No explanation needed—keep that chocolate pie far away!

2. Portion Control: It’s Not Just for Humans!

Sure, it’s tempting to spoil your dog with leftover turkey and stuffing, but portion control for pets is key! A little bit of turkey is fine, but too much can lead to an upset stomach or even pancreatitis. Remember, your dog’s idea of a Thanksgiving feast might be a bit different than yours. Stick to small portions and keep an eye on their reaction.

3. Make it a Family Affair!

Thanksgiving isn’t just about food; it’s about family! Include your furry friend in the festivities:

• Special Activities with Dogs: Plan a fun family walk before or after dinner. Your dog will appreciate the extra bonding time (and the chance to sniff everything!).
• Thanksgiving Photoshoot: Grab a festive hat or a Thanksgiving-themed bandana and snap some adorable pictures. Your dog will love the attention, and you’ll have memories to cherish.

4. Training Time: Ask, Don’t Share!

If your dog gives you those big, pleading eyes while you’re eating, it can be hard to resist. But don’t let them sweet-talk you into giving them scraps! Instead, teach them to “stay” or “go to your spot” during dinner. This will help them understand that mealtime is for humans, while they can enjoy their own treats nearby.

5. Create a Thanksgiving Dog Menu!

Feeling fancy? Why not whip up a special Thanksgiving dog menu for your pup? Use safe ingredients to create a delicious dish:

• Turkey and Sweet Potato Bowl: Combine shredded turkey with sweet potatoes and carrots for a tail-wagging feast.
• Pumpkin Puree Treats: Mix plain pumpkin puree (not the spiced pie filling) with some oats for a tasty snack.

6. Don’t Forget About Treats!

Make sure to have plenty of healthy dog snacks on hand during your Thanksgiving celebrations! Having a stash of dog-friendly treats will keep your pup occupied and happy, plus it’ll help you avoid those puppy-dog eyes during dinner.

7. Post-Feast Snuggles!

After the meal, it’s time for some quality cuddle time. Settle on the couch with your furry friend, watch some football, and enjoy the holiday spirit together. Just don’t be surprised if your dog takes a post-dinner nap—it's a tough job being a holiday pup!

Thanksgiving is all about giving thanks, and what better way to show gratitude than by including your four-legged family member in the festivities? By keeping your dog safe and happy, you’re ensuring that everyone has a fantastic holiday. And who knows? Maybe your pup will even give you a few extra snuggles in appreciation. At Makondo Pets, we’re thankful for our furry friends, and we wish you a wonderful, tail-wagging Thanksgiving!