ARKANSAS, USA — Thanksgiving is coming up and dog owners may want to treat their four-legged friend with some traditional food. But, are you taking a risk by giving your dog something they're not supposed to eat? The American Kennel Club (AKC) tells us what Thanksgiving foods are safe for our furry friends, and which are not.
Foods you should NOT give your dog
There are many misconceptions about feeding your dog bones as a treat, but the AKC assures they should be avoided by dogs. Here's a list of other things the AKC says you should NOT feed your dog this Thanksgiving.
- Ham
- Turkey skin
- Gravy
- Chocolate
- Casseroles
- Mashed Potatoes
- Creamed peas
- Fatty foods
- Apple pie
- Pumpkin pie
- Yeast dough
- Raisins
- Grapes
- Alcohol
- Onions
- Garlic
- Scallions
- Foods with spices
- Sweets in general (including those categorized as "sugar-free")
After the celebration is over, and you've managed to keep your dog from eating these foods, don't forget to make sure the trash is not in its reach. All dog owners know how quick they can be to get into it behind your back. If your dog accidentally eats something it's not supposed to, AKC recommends you take it to a vet or call the Pet Poison Helpline. The Pet Poise Helpline is 855-764-7661.
Foods you can safely share with your dog
The following list is provided by AKC and each food was approved by experts. Please note that the foods listed as "plain" mean they are not salted, seasoned, or dressed.
- Plain potatoes
- Plain sweet potatoes
- Apples (avoid the core and seeds)
- Turkey meat without bones or skin
- Plain Green beans
- Plain peas
- Pure pumpkin puree (not pre-spiced or sugary pie mix)
Since sweets are not recommended for dogs, the AKC says you can customize your dog a special dessert. The AKC suggests things like frozen plain yogurt as long as it does not contain xylitol which can be deadly to dogs. You could even mix it with pure pumpkin puree.
AKC says this holiday "tends to coincide with an uptick in vet visits." This is because people feed their dogs unsafe human foods. Don't let those puppy dog eyes convince you! Instead, make sure you set some appropriate foods aside for your dog, and have a happy Thanksgiving!
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