Thanksgiving Safety for Dogs: Foods to Avoid and Tips for a Calm Gathering

Thanksgiving is full of wonderful smells, and your dog notices every one. With guests, open plates and lots of excitement, the holiday can be risky for curious noses and stressful for sensitive dogs. A little preparation keeps everyone safe, relaxed and happy.

Foods to keep away from your dog

Several common holiday foods are unsafe for dogs. Keep these out of reach, and let guests know the rules:

• Cooked bones (especially turkey): they can splinter and cause choking or injury to the mouth and digestive tract.
• Onions, garlic, chives and leeks: these can damage a dog's red blood cells.
• Grapes and raisins: even small amounts can be toxic to some dogs.
• Chocolate and anything with xylitol, a sweetener found in some baked goods and sugar-free products.
• Fatty skin, gravy and rich leftovers: these can trigger stomach upset or pancreatitis.
• Raw yeast dough and alcohol.

Secure the trash and the counters

Turkey carcasses, strings and wrappers are a big temptation. Close the trash securely or keep it in a closed cabinet, and never leave plates unattended where your dog can reach them.

Offer a dog-friendly plate instead

If you'd like your dog to join in, a small portion of plain, cooked turkey meat without skin, seasoning or bones, or plain green beans or plain cooked sweet potato, is generally fine for most dogs in small amounts. Keep it modest, since a sudden rich meal can upset the stomach.

Give your dog something calm to do

While the family eats, a snuffle mat with a few treats in a quiet room can keep your dog pleasantly busy and away from the table. Our holiday survival guide has more tips for guests and noise.

Create a quiet retreat

Busy gatherings can overwhelm some dogs. Set up a quiet room with a comfortable bed and a gentle scent, such as a soy candle burned only where your dog can't reach it and never left unattended. Keep any candle safely out of reach, and avoid strong fragrances if your dog seems sensitive. Let your dog choose to join or rest.

If your dog eats something unsafe

Call your veterinarian, a local emergency clinic, or a pet poison hotline right away, even if your dog seems fine. Quick action matters, and it's better to ask early.

With a few simple rules, Thanksgiving can be a peaceful day for the whole family, four-legged members included.