North Dakota Dogs on Turkey Day: The Good, The Bad, and the Please Don’t Eat That!

This Thanksgiving, while you prepare your holiday feast here in North Dakota, don’t forget your canine friends. Many Thanksgiving staples can be shared safely with dogs in moderation, but others pose serious risks.

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Here’s a guide petmd.com put together to help you include your pets in the celebration responsibly.

Thanksgiving Foods Safe for Dogs

Dogs can also enjoy some traditional Thanksgiving foods, but moderation is key. Treats, including human foods, should never exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

• Turkey: Offer lean, skinless white meat, boiled and unseasoned. Avoid bones and fatty cuts.
• Pumpkin: Plain, canned, or roasted pumpkin supports digestion but avoid sugary pie filling.
• Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries are fine in small quantities. Avoid cranberry sauce with added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
• Green Beans: Raw or cooked without seasoning are nutritious and low-calorie.
• Carrots: Raw or cooked carrots provide vitamin A and fiber. Avoid canned varieties with salt.
• Sweet Potatoes: Serve cooked and unseasoned, in small cubes or mashed.
• Apples: Slice into small pieces, removing the core and seeds.

Read More: What Your Cats Should Skip on Thanksgiving Day

Foods to Avoid for Dogs:

• Candy and Chocolate: Both can be toxic, with xylitol and theobromine posing serious risks.
• Grapes and Raisins: Toxic to dogs, leading to potential kidney failure.
• Macadamia Nuts: Can cause vomiting, tremors, and seizures.
• Onions and Garlic: Toxic, even in small amounts.
• Mashed Potatoes, Stuffing, and Gravy: Often contain harmful ingredients like garlic, onion, or high fat and salt.
• Bread Dough: Raw dough can expand in the stomach, causing serious health issues.
• Alcohol: Even tiny amounts can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Keep Your Pets Safe This Thanksgiving

When offering human foods to your pets, always ensure they are cooked plainly, without added fats, seasonings, or harmful ingredients. If your pet consumes something dangerous, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline® at 855-764-7661 immediately.