Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. As you prepare your holiday feast, don’t forget about the furry family member patiently wagging their tail under the table. While traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, and pie may not be dog-friendly, you can still include your pup in the festivities with a few simple recipes designed just for them. Here are some safe and healthy Thanksgiving-inspired treats your dog will love.

1. Turkey and Sweet Potato Mash

This easy dish combines classic Thanksgiving flavors in a dog-safe way.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked, unseasoned turkey (white meat only, no skin or bones)
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato (plain, no butter or sugar)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted chicken broth (optional for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Shred the cooked turkey into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Mash the sweet potato until smooth.
3. Mix the turkey and sweet potato together, adding a small splash of unsalted chicken broth if desired.
4. Serve in your dog’s bowl as a special Thanksgiving treat.

2. Pumpkin Pupcakes

These dog-safe “cupcakes” are made with natural ingredients your pup will adore.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (pure, not pie filling)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
3. Spoon the batter into mini muffin tins or small silicone molds.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm.
5. Let cool before serving. These can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

3. Cranberry and Apple Dog Biscuits

Add some holiday flair with these crunchy treats.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (chopped)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or a grain-free alternative)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Combine the cranberries and applesauce in a bowl.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crisp.

4. Frozen Peanut Butter and Banana Bites

A simple, no-cook treat perfect for pre-dinner distractions.
Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Mash the banana in a bowl.
2. Stir in the peanut butter and yogurt until smooth.
3. Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds and freeze until solid.
4. Serve as a chilled snack while you’re busy cooking.

Keep Thanksgiving Safe for Your Dog

While these recipes are safe and healthy, remember to avoid giving your dog certain holiday foods like onions, garlic, raisins, chocolate, and anything seasoned heavily with salt or spices. Stick to plain, simple ingredients to ensure your pup enjoys a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving, share the love (and the flavors) with your four-legged companion by treating them to one of these festive recipes. After all, they deserve a little extra gratitude, too!