9 Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Can and Cannot Eat
Thinking of giving Rover a plate of leftovers after your Thanksgiving feast? If you want to avoid an untimely trip to the vet, not so fast. To this end, People has kindly published a list of Thanksgiving foods that are and aren't safe for your dog.
(photo: Ryan McVay, Thinkstock)
- DON'T LET YOUR DOG CHOW DOWN ON DESSERT. It's no myth: chocolate is dangerous for dogs. The toxic component is theobromine, something easily metabolized by humans but a big problem for dogs. In large quantities, theobromine can cause seizures, internal bleeding and heart attacks in dogs, but even a small amount will probably cause your pup some discomfort. Keep all chocolate treats away from your pet. While some desserts aren't as dangerous, it is best for pups to stay away from all sweets. Too much sugar ingestion can lead to diabetes and obesity.
- DO GIVE YOUR DOG A SMALL SERVING OF CRANBERRY SAUCE. Cranberries are full of antioxidants and vitamins that are great for your pup, but this trademark sauce is also full of sugar, so keep Fido's portion light.
- DON'T SHARE THE BIRD. While passing a bit of poultry to your pet may seem natural on Thanksgiving day, it isn't the best idea. Small pieces of unseasoned turkey are okay to share, but anything larger, greasier or fattier than that could be an issue. Parts of the bird with a high fat content (like the turkey's skin) can cause pancreatitis in canines. If you do decide to let your pooch partake in a little turkey, make sure there are no bones in the meat. If your dog accidentally gobbles a bone, it can lead to blockages and punctures that can cause serious health problems.
- DO PASS A PIECE OF PUMPKIN. Plain, cut, cooked pieces of pumpkin are a pawsome treat for pups. The smooth and colorful food is often used as a digestive aid for dogs with tummy troubles. Don't be afraid to share this squash with your furry sweetheart, just make sure there are no extra flavors added.
- DON'T BREAK BREAD WITH YOUR PUP. The yeast from dinner rolls and other breads at your Thanksgiving meal can lead to uncomfortable gas for your dog, and severe smells for the rest of your guests. Make sure everyone stays safe and the room stays fresh by keeping any bread out of your pet's reach.
- DO DISH OUT RAW VEGGIES. Before you cook up all those vegetables for the picky humans surrounding your table, toss a few to your dog. Asparagus, broccoli and carrots are all safe raw vegetables to share with your pup. Make sure you chop them up in to easy-to-chew pieces before passing them off to your four-pawed friend, and don't add any seasonings.
- DON'T LET YOUR DOG NEAR ANY ONIONS. In large doses, onions can cause anemia in dogs, making this food very toxic to pups. To avoid any trips to the vet on Turkey Day, keep your pets away from any foods that contain onions or other alliums (garlic, leeks and shallots). This means no stuffing!
- DO OFFER A DOLLOP OF MASHED POTATOES. Cooked potatoes are a safe, smooth and tasty treat for canines. Just make sure your pooch's portion has no sour cream or butter on it, since dairy products can be rough for a dog to digest.
- DON'T GIVE YOUR PUP A SIP OF WINE. Since most dogs are smaller than humans, intoxicants hit them harder. Ban your furry best friends from the bar and keep their drinks to fresh water only.
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