A Pawsitively Safe Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, food! But while we’re passing the mashed potatoes and carving the turkey, our dogs might have very different ideas about what the holiday should look like. Between counter-surfing, begging at the table, and sneaky paws grabbing leftovers, it’s easy for our furry friends to get into trouble. This month’s Tail-Waggin Tips are all about keeping the holiday joyful, safe, and stress-free, for both people and pups.
Food Safety First
It can be tempting to give in to those puppy-dog eyes, but many traditional Thanksgiving foods aren’t safe for our dogs. Turkey bones can splinter, fatty foods like gravy or skin can cause tummy upsets, and foods like onions, raisins, grapes, or chocolate can be downright dangerous.
But that doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out! There are plenty of dog-safe options that make them feel included without risk:
- Plain pumpkin (not pie filling) is a tasty and healthy choice.
- Steamed green beans or carrots can be a crunchy snack.
- A small bite of plain turkey breast, without skin, seasoning, or gravy, is a safe treat in moderation.
The key is to plan ahead so your dog has something special waiting for them when everyone else is enjoying their plate.
Pro Tip: Skip the turkey bones and say yes to long-lasting chews instead!
Stop the Counter-Surfing
While it’s funny in the movies to see a dog swipe the turkey, in real life it can ruin the meal, and even send you to the vet. Preventing counter-surfing is easier when you plan ahead:
- Use a safety gate to block off the kitchen while you cook.
- Don’t leave food unattended on counters or tables.
- Give your pup something fun to do while you prep, like a stuffed Kong, a puzzle feeder, or a special chew, we have all of them here for you to pick up.
If your dog has already learned that counters = free snacks, management is your best friend. Think prevention over correction, it’s easier to avoid temptation than to fix a problem in the middle of cooking chaos!
Creating Calm During Chaos
Thanksgiving gatherings can feel overwhelming with extra people, noise, and activity. Some dogs thrive on the excitement, but others may get anxious or overstimulated. Consider these options to set your dog up for success:
- Create a quiet space with their bed, water, and a favorite toy.
- Offer a stuffed Kong or long-lasting chew to give them a “job” during dinner.
- Use a crate if that’s your dog’s safe place, especially if it worked beautifully at Halloween, and it can work just as well at Thanksgiving.
- Remind guests of your rules: no slipping food under the table, no matter how cute the begging eyes may be.
Every family is different, and every dog has their own comfort zone. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s creating an environment where both you and your dog can enjoy the day.
Fun Alternatives for Dogs
Want to make your pup feel extra special this Thanksgiving? A little planning can go a long way. Here are some fun ways to include them in the festivities without sharing unsafe foods:
- Turkey Day Walk: Before the feast begins, take your dog for a walk to burn some energy. A tired dog is a calmer dog!
- DIY Enrichment: Hide a few treats in a snuffle mat or scatter kibble in the yard for a holiday-themed sniffing game.
- Homemade Goodies: Whip up a batch of dog-friendly pumpkin biscuits (plenty of easy recipes online) so your pup has their own “dessert.”
These small touches help your dog feel like part of the celebration, and may even become traditions you look forward to year after year.
Gratitude, Safety, and Tail Wags
Thanksgiving is about love, laughter, and togetherness. By making a few small adjustments, you can protect your holiday meal and give your dog a reason to be thankful, too.
So this year, as the turkey roasts and the pies bake, let’s celebrate with gratitude, laughter, and plenty of safe, tail-wagging moments. May your holiday be filled with family, friends, and dogs curled up nearby—content, safe, and loved.
Because You’ve Got The Best Dog,
Lisa 
