How to Build Fido Their Own Thanksgiving Plate
When you gather around the table to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal, why not include your furry friend? Making your pup their own dog-safe Thanksgiving plate is a wonderful way to include them in your holiday festivities. However, dog owners should be mindful of the Thanksgiving foods they share with their pup, since many holiday foods are harmful for dogs. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday. Here’s how to build a tasty and safe Thanksgiving plate for Fido.
Unsafe Thanksgiving Foods and Ingredients
When preparing your Thanksgiving feast, it’s crucial to be aware of which foods can pose a danger to dogs.
- Mashed potatoes: Although plain potatoes are a dog-safe food, typical mashed potato dishes are prepared with harmful ingredients like salt, butter, cream, onion powder, and garlic.
- Stuffing: Stuffing contains several ingredients that are harmful to dogs, including onions and garlic. These ingredients damage dogs’ red blood cells, which can lead to anemia.
- Bones: Although you may be tempted to give your canine a bone, they can splinter and cause choking or serious injuries to your pup’s digestive tract.
- Gravy: Due to the high-fat content and seasonings gravy usually contains, this dish will likely upset your dog’s stomach. Gravy also contains onions and garlic, so it’s best to avoid this sauce when making your dog’s plate.
- Bread dough: Raw dough expands in dogs’ stomachs, which causes painful bloating that can lead to serious complications. This may lead to bread dough toxicosis, which is a life-threatening condition.
- Sugary desserts: Since added sugar is harmful to dogs, dog owners should keep their pups far away from any desserts, such as pies, cakes, and cookies. Additionally, these desserts often contain chocolate and xylitol, which are both toxic to canines.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic for dogs, so keep your pup far away from any holiday drinks this Thanksgiving. If your dog ingests any amount of alcohol, contact an emergency animal hospital or 24/7 poison control line immediately.
Dog-Safe Thanksgiving Foods
Here’s a list of Thanksgiving foods that are safe for your pup:
- Turkey: Turkey is one of the highlights of a classic Thanksgiving feast, and your pup is sure to agree! Plain, cooked turkey without skin or seasoning is a protein-packed treat that your pooch will love. In addition to being a great source of lean protein, turkey is low in fat. Just be sure to avoid any bones or added sauces.
- Sweet Potatoes: Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes are a nutritious side dish that will brighten up your dog’s plate. These delicious vegetables provide your pup with plenty of beneficial vitamins and fiber. To keep Fido feeling healthy, make sure the sweet potatoes you serve Fido are free of sweeteners, dairy, and spices.
- Green Beans: Fresh or cooked green beans without any seasoning are a tasty, low-calorie treat that your pup will love. These veggies are filled with beneficial vitamins and minerals and are a versatile dish; you can serve them to your dog raw, roasted, or steamed.
- Cranberries: Cranberries are a colorful and nutritious addition to your pup’s Thanksgiving meal. These vibrant berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that will boost your pup’s immune system. It’s best to serve them without added sugars or sweeteners, as sweetened cranberry sauces can contain harmful ingredients. Since raw cranberries may be difficult for your pup to digest, we recommend cutting them into smaller pieces and serving them to Fido in moderation.
- Pumpkin: Although your pup can’t have a slice of pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving, that doesn’t mean they need to miss out on this yummy food. Pumpkin is a classic Thanksgiving food that is guaranteed to be a hit with your furry friend. Before you add this to your pup’s plate, make sure you have 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. When served correctly, pumpkin is a safe snack for your pooch with several health benefits.
Serving Dog-Friendly Portions
When preparing Fido’s Thanksgiving plate, keep portion sizes in mind. Although it may be tempting to let your pup indulge during the holiday, a canine with an upset stomach isn’t enjoyable for anyone. A small amount of each ingredient is ideal—think spoonfuls rather than heaping servings. This way, your dog can enjoy a variety of flavors without the risk of an upset stomach.
Now that you know the do’s and don’ts of making a dog-friendly Thanksgiving plate, you’re all set to enjoy a safe and fun holiday with your pup!
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