Last Updated on September 24, 2025 by Shannon
Thanksgiving is all about food, family, and fun, but for our dogs, it can also bring hidden dangers. From rich holiday foods to busy kitchens and excited guests, there are plenty of opportunities for accidents. Since our dogs are part of the family, it’s important to plan ahead so they can enjoy the holiday safely right alongside us.
Here are some simple but important Thanksgiving dog safety tips to help keep tails wagging all season long.
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Food Dangers to Watch Out For
Thanksgiving tables are full of tempting smells, but many holiday foods are dangerous for dogs. Keep all human food out of reach, especially the ones below:
Turkey skin & fatty meat – Turkey skin is high in fat, which can upset your dog’s stomach or even cause pancreatitis. Never let your dog steal the turkey off the counter (yes, it happens more often than you think!). If you want to share, offer a small piece of plain, unseasoned, cooked white meat.
Cooked bones – Once cooked, turkey bones splinter easily and can puncture your dog’s digestive tract. Always dispose of them right away.
Onions & garlic – Common in stuffing and seasonings, these are toxic to dogs, even when cooked.
Turkey brine – Brine is extremely salty and can cause dangerous dehydration if your dog laps it up.
Gravy & stuffing – Delicious for us, but they often contain onions, garlic, and excess fat.
Alcohol – Even small amounts are toxic to dogs, and curious dogs may lap up an unattended drink.
Chocolate – Contains caffeine and theobromine, which can cause vomiting, tremors, or worse. Though chocolate consumption in dogs isn’t usually fatal, it can make your dog really sick.
Grapes & raisins – Found in salads, stuffings, or desserts, these can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Nuts – While some nuts are safe for dogs in small quantities, they are all high in fat, which can cause stomach upset. Macadamia nuts are especially toxic and should never be given to dogs.
Pumpkin pie & nutmeg – Pumpkin itself is great for dogs, but pumpkin pie contains sugar and spices that are not good for dogs. Nutmeg, in particular, is toxic to dogs in large quantities. Stick with plain pumpkin puree instead, or make some pumpkin dog treats for your dog ahead of time.
Xylitol – This artificial sweetener (found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some baked goods) is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to life-threatening hypoglycemia, seizures, and liver failure.
Safer alternative: Give your dog a special dog-safe treat while you enjoy your meal. Try a frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter, or bake up homemade Thanksgiving dog treats so they don’t feel left out.
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Kitchen Safety
Thanksgiving kitchens are busy, noisy, and filled with tempting smells. To keep your dog safe:
Take the trash out quickly. Turkey bones and food scraps are irresistible and dangerous if left in an indoor trash bag.
Watch the counters. Even non-counter-surfing dogs may be tempted by all the food on the counter at Thanksgiving.
Keep dogs out of the kitchen. Dropped scraps, hot pans, or spilled liquids could lead to burns or accidental poisoning.
Mealtime & Guest Safety
Separate your dog during dinner. You may be able to ignore your dog begging, but your guests may not. A quiet room with a toy or frozen Kong is best.
Talk to guests ahead of time. Let them know beforehand what your expectations are regarding your dog. It’s best to nip any problems in the bud before guests arrive.
Keep dogs away from bags & purses. Guests may bring medications, food, gum, or other items that could harm your pet. Keep the bags in purses in a location your dog can’t get to, like a closet or bedroom with the door closed.
Supervise kids. Even the gentlest dog can become overwhelmed by excited children. Always monitor their interactions. If you see your dog getting overwhelmed, remove them to a quiet room or put them in their kennel (preferably in a room away from the children). It’s always better to separate them than risk injury because your dog was pushed beyond what they could handle.
Decoration Dangers
Poinsettias & other plants. These festive flowers can cause vomiting and more serious issues if eaten.
Candles. Curious dogs can burn themselves by trying to nose or bite the flame or knock candles over, creating a fire hazard.
In Case Your Dog Gets Loose
With guests coming and going, doors may be left open. Be prepared just in case:
- Make sure your dog’s ID tags are up to date with your current information, and have your dog wear them at all times while guests are over.
- Double-check their microchip information. Most (if not all) pounds and vet clinics scan for microchips when a lost animal comes into their care. Having up-to-date information makes it easier for them to contact you.
- Know the signs of poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, or labored breathing. If you notice symptoms, call your vet or e-vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA animal poison control center or the pet poison helpline, though there may be a charge for calling either of those lines.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving should be a joyful time for the whole family, including our dogs. By planning ahead, setting boundaries, and keeping dangerous foods and decorations out of reach, you’ll make sure your dog stays safe, happy, and stress-free.
From my family to yours, wishing you a safe and happy Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and plenty of dog-approved treats.
Interesting reading. I like the graphics; they help me remember turkey skin, poinsettias, etc.