Thanksgiving Feasting: What Can and Can’t Your Dog Eat?
Thanksgiving Feasting: What Can and Can’t Your Dog Eat?
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, a lot of delicious food. Here at Off Leash K9 Training, Missoula we understand that this holiday can be just as exciting for your furry family members. However, it’s crucial to know what foods are safe for them to indulge in and which to avoid to ensure a happy and healthy celebration for everyone.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
- Turkey Meat (Plain and Cooked): A few bites of plain, cooked turkey can be a tasty treat for your dog. Just make sure it’s boneless and skinless.
- Plain Sweet Potatoes: These are a healthy snack in moderation. Avoid sweet potatoes with added sugar or spices.
- Carrots: Raw or cooked, carrots are a great low-calorie treat, good for your dog’s teeth.
- Apples (Without Seeds): Apples are a sweet treat for dogs, but ensure they are seedless and coreless.
- Plain Pumpkin: A small amount of plain, canned pumpkin can aid in digestion.
Foods to Avoid
- Onions and Garlic: These can cause toxic anemia in dogs.
- Grapes and Raisins: Even in small amounts, these can be toxic.
- Chocolate and Sweets: These can be extremely harmful due to xylitol and theobromine.
- Cooked Bones and Fatty Skin: These can lead to choking hazards and pancreatitis.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous for dogs.
Tips for a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving
- Keep a Watchful Eye: Monitor your dog around the dinner table to prevent them from gobbling up harmful foods. Even better, use the “place” command to keep them on their bed while your family enjoys the feast!
- Create a Doggy Plate: Prepare a small, dog-safe plate with the foods listed above.
- Keep it Calm: If your dog is overwhelmed by large celebrations, create a calm space for them to relax in while you celebrate!
Is Your Dog Ready for the Holidays?
If the holiday season brings more stress than relaxation due to counter surfing, unruly behavior with guests, or many of the other troubles that come with big celebrations and our furry friends, we’re here to help. Our board & train program is especially effective, where dogs stay in the trainers’ homes, receiving personalized attention. They participate in community field trips, learning both in-home manners and public etiquette to help them become the best family members, even during the holiday celebrations!
Don’t let an untrained dog dampen your holiday spirit. Contact us today to secure a spot in our program and ensure a peaceful and enjoyable Thanksgiving for you and your furry friend! Visit us at www.missouladogtrainers.com or call us at (406) 946-3037 to learn more.
Remember, a well-trained dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes for a happy holiday season!