Why Thanksgiving Can Be Risky for Dogs
Thanksgiving is about family, food, and togetherness.
But for dogs, this holiday can be one of the most dangerous times of the year.
Many traditional Thanksgiving foods contain:
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Onions and garlic
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Heavy spices
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Excess fat and salt
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Sugar and artificial sweeteners
According to the ASPCA, holiday food accidents are a top reason for emergency vet visits during Thanksgiving week.
That doesn’t mean your dog has to feel left out.
With homemade Thanksgiving dog treats, you can include your dog safely while avoiding dangerous table scraps. These dog-friendly recipes use seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, turkey, and sweet potato—without the harmful extras.
Later in this guide, you’ll also find trusted tools and ingredients that make holiday dog treats safer and easier to prepare.
What Are Homemade Thanksgiving Dog Treats?
Homemade Thanksgiving dog treats are dog-safe snacks inspired by fall and holiday flavors, made specifically for canine digestion.
They avoid:
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Seasonings
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Gravy
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Butter
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Sugar
And focus on:
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Simple, whole ingredients
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Proper portion sizes
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Gentle cooking methods
Homemade vs Human Thanksgiving Food
Human Thanksgiving food is often too rich for dogs.
Dog treats are simplified, lightly cooked, and nutritionally appropriate.
Why Homemade Thanksgiving Dog Treats Matter for Dogs
Holiday gatherings increase the risk of:
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Dogs eating dropped food
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Guests feeding unsafe scraps
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Digestive upset and pancreatitis
The AKC recommends preparing dog-specific treats in advance to reduce these risks.
Benefits of Thanksgiving-Themed Dog Treats
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Keeps dogs safely included
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Reduces begging at the table
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Prevents accidental poisoning
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Supports bonding and enrichment
Common Thanksgiving Food Problems Dog Owners Face
Many dog owners run into the same issues every year:
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Dogs stealing turkey skin or stuffing
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Guests unknowingly feeding onions or gravy
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Sudden diet changes causing diarrhea
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Holiday weight gain
Planning dog-safe treats ahead of time solves most of these problems.
How to Make Homemade Thanksgiving Dog Treats Safely
Safety Rules for Holiday Treats
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Use plain, unseasoned ingredients only
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Avoid onions, garlic, nutmeg, and gravy
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Keep portions small
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Introduce new ingredients slowly
Storage Tips
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Refrigerate baked treats 5–7 days
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Freeze extras for later
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Use airtight containers
5 Homemade Thanksgiving Dog Treat Ideas
1. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Thanksgiving Dog Biscuits
Fiber-rich and seasonal.
2. Turkey & Sweet Potato Dog Treats
High-protein, savory option.
3. Apple & Oat Thanksgiving Dog Cookies
Light, gently sweet fall flavor.
4. Cranberry & Pumpkin Soft Dog Treats
Antioxidant boost with soft texture.
5. Frozen Yogurt & Pumpkin Thanksgiving Dog Bites
Make-ahead and low effort.
Best Ingredients & Tools for Homemade Thanksgiving Dog Treats
🐾 1. Best Xylitol-Free Peanut Butter for Dog Treats
Peanut butter is a favorite ingredient—but xylitol is toxic to dogs, as confirmed by the ASPCA.
A dog-safe peanut butter should:
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Contain only peanuts (and maybe salt)
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Be free from xylitol and sweeteners
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Be low sodium
Pros
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Adds flavor dogs love
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Improves biscuit texture
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Safe fat source in moderation
Cons
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High in calories
Who Should Buy
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Dogs without nut allergies
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Owners baking holiday treats
Who Should Avoid
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Dogs with pancreatitis
🐾 2. Best Pure Pumpkin Puree for Dogs (No Spices)
Pumpkin supports digestion and is a Thanksgiving staple.
Pros
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High fiber
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Helps stool consistency
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Naturally low fat
Cons
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Must be 100% pure (no pie filling)
Who Should Buy
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Dogs with sensitive stomachs
Who Should Avoid
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Dogs on vet-restricted fiber diets
🐾 3. Best Dog-Safe Turkey (Lean, Unseasoned)
Turkey is safe for dogs only when plain and skinless.
Pros
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Lean protein
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High palatability
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Holiday-appropriate
Cons
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Fatty cuts can cause GI upset
Who Should Buy
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Active dogs
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Picky eaters
Who Should Avoid
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Dogs with pancreatitis history
🐾 4. Best Silicone Dog Treat Molds for Holiday Shapes
Holiday-shaped molds make treats fun and controlled.
Pros
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BPA-free
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Freezer and oven safe
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Portion control
Cons
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Requires storage space
Who Should Buy
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Holiday bakers
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Small-dog owners
Who Should Avoid
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Minimalist kitchens
🐾 5. Best Non-Stick Baking Mats for Dog Treats
Reusable mats prevent sticking and burning.
Pros
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Even baking
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No added oils
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Easy cleanup
Cons
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Only for baked treats
Who Should Buy
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Frequent treat bakers
Who Should Avoid
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No-bake only users
🐾 6. Best Airtight Containers for Holiday Dog Treat Storage
Storage is critical during busy holidays.
Pros
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Prevents spoilage
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Keeps treats fresh
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Freezer-safe
Cons
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Extra cost
Who Should Buy
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Make-ahead planners
Who Should Avoid
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Same-day treat makers
Buying Guide: What to Look for Before Choosing Ingredients & Tools
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Always read ingredient labels
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Avoid hidden spices and sugars
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Choose low-fat options
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Use BPA-free, food-grade tools
The AKC recommends treats make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
Expert Tips & Vet-Backed Recommendations
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Keep dogs away from the dinner table
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Inform guests not to feed dogs
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Introduce holiday treats slowly
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Skip treats if your dog has GI issues
PetMD warns that rich holiday foods are a common cause of pancreatitis in dogs.
FAQs About Homemade Thanksgiving Dog Treats
Q1: Can dogs eat Thanksgiving food?
Most human foods are unsafe. Dog-specific treats are best.
Q2: Is turkey safe for dogs?
Yes, if plain, skinless, and unseasoned.
Q3: Can dogs eat pumpkin and cranberry?
Yes, in small amounts.
Q4: How many holiday treats can dogs have?
Only a few—treats should stay under 10% of calories.
Q5: Are Thanksgiving dog treats safe for puppies?
Yes, in very small portions.
Conclusion: Celebrate Thanksgiving the Dog-Safe Way
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be dangerous for dogs.
With homemade Thanksgiving dog treats, you can:
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Include your dog safely
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Avoid toxic foods
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Reduce holiday stress
👉 Final Recommendation:
Plan ahead. Use dog-safe ingredients. And if you’re making treats every year, investing in quality pumpkin puree, safe peanut butter, holiday molds, and airtight storage makes the process easier and safer.
