It's that time of year again. Turkeys are flying off the shelves, and Thanksgiving menus are being finalized.
Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without a massive, food-coma-inducing meal. But beyond making sure your own plate is full of personal favorites, a major part of this holiday is passing the mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other delicious sides to your loved ones.
This holiday is all about sharing. And if you're a dog owner, that means giving some to your canine friend, too. In fact, it could be argued that Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday for plenty of pups.
Your dog may not get a seat at the table, but he definitely enjoys some of the perks of having copious amounts of food around.
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It's natural for dog parents to want to share every delicious bite with their pup, but it's important to remember that not every dish is dog-friendly.
No one has time to clean up dog vomit (or any bodily fluids) on Thanksgiving, so here's how to make sure your dog's plate agrees with his tummy.
1. Mashed Potatoes (Depending On Ingredients)
Pure mashed potatoes are totally fine for your dog to enjoy. However, odds are that your Thanksgiving taters have some additives that make them oh-so-creamy and delicious.
Common ingredients like garlic and dairy are no-good for your pup's digestive tract, according to the ASPCA. Excessive amounts of salt are also a big no-no.
2. Yeast Dough
You've probably fed your dog bread before, and he seemed fine. Like most things, small amounts won't hurt him.
However, feeding him a whole roll could lead to painful bloating, stomach twisting, or other life-threatening complications.
The ASPCA explains that yeast dough — even when baked — can continue to rise in a dog's stomach.
3. Green Bean Casserole
There is only one part of this classic dish that might cause your dog trouble, but it also happens to one of the the key ingredients.
Digesting onions can lead to serious red blood cell damage for dogs when eaten in large amounts. As usual, it's better to avoid the issue altogether.
4. Stuffing
At its core, stuffing is just fancy bread. Dogs shouldn't eat this for all of the same reasons they should refrain from feasting on yeast dough. But the risks don't end there.
Things like macadamia nuts and raisins pose serious problems for dogs and are even considered to be toxic.
5. Ice Cream
Like humans, every dog's tolerance to dairy is a little different. But since their stomachs aren't as used to it, it is far more likely to cause problems.
If you want to feed your dog some pumpkin pie, skip the à la mode.
6. Leeks
Leeks are underrated, delicious vegetables for humans to eat, but keep them far away from your pup.
Like onions, leeks can lead to irreversible red blood cell damage that you don't want to put your pet through.
7. Anything With Garlic
Again, garlic is a delicious addition to pretty much anything. However, it's best to keep it away from your dog.
Other than garlic breath, it could end him up at the vet, which no one has time for on Thanksgiving.
8. Turkey On The Bone
Turkey itself is obviously totally fine for dogs to eat, especially when it's cooked properly — like your Thanksgiving turkey will be.
However, save the turkey legs and other boney pieces for yourself. A cooked bone may be flimsier and easier to swallow, but it can still pierce your dog's stomach or cause them to choke.
9. Cranberry Sauce
According to the American Kennel Club, cranberries are fine for your doggo — on their own and in moderation.
However, cranberry sauce is so delicious because it is highly concentrated and includes tons of sugar. Moreover, some recipes include brandy, grapes, raisins and currants, all of which are no-good for dogs.
10. Chocolatey Desserts
This probably goes without saying, but chocolate is not good for dogs. Keep the chocolatey desserts for yourself, and let your dog enjoy the rest of the meal.
Be sure to SHARE this guide with anyone you know who likes to treat their dog on Thanksgiving!
