Holiday Feasts That You Can Share with Your Dog

by Katherine Khoo December 13, 2024 6 min read

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, bringing loved ones together to celebrate with festive feasts and treats. For many of us pet parents, the desire to include our furry family members in the festivities is only natural. However, it’s crucial to know which foods are safe for dogs, as not everything on the holiday table is suitable for their digestive systems. In this article, we’ll explore ten holiday foods that are dog-friendly, plus a few holiday-themed treats and toys to make the experience even more special.

Dog-Friendly Holiday Foods

Turkey

Turkey is a classic holiday food that can be safe for dogs to enjoy, as long as it’s plain, cooked, and free from skin, seasonings, and bones. The meat is high in protein and easy for dogs to digest, making it a satisfying and nutritious treat. However, it’s important to remember that turkey should be served in moderation to avoid any potential stomach upset. If your turkey is seasoned or stuffed, avoid sharing it with your dog, as spices, garlic, and onions are toxic to them. A few small pieces of plain, roasted turkey breast will be enough to delight your pup. To make their plate extra festive, consider pairing it with this Licked Frozen Bone Broth For Dogs & Cats (Turkey Chicken) for gravy. Many pet brands offer limited-edition holiday treats, so keep an eye out for safe, seasonal options!

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a holiday staple and a fantastic treat for dogs due to their high fibre content and rich array of vitamins, such as vitamins A, B6, and C. These nutrients support a dog’s immune system and overall health. Dogs can enjoy small portions of cooked, unseasoned sweet potatoes either as a standalone treat or mixed into their regular food. Just make sure they’re free of sugar, butter, and spices, which are commonly added in holiday recipes. If you’re looking for a sweet potato holiday treat, try this Food For The Good Air Dried Sweet Potato Cat & Dog Treats that dogs love.

Green Beans

Green beans are a nutritious, low-calorie option for dogs and are often used as a healthy snack or supplement to meals. These vegetables are high in fibre and contain beneficial vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. Steamed or lightly cooked green beans are best for dogs, as raw ones can be a bit tough for them to chew. A small side of green beans is a great way to let your dog join in the holiday feast without compromising their health.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a nutritious seasonal favourite that’s safe and even beneficial for dogs. It’s loaded with fibre, which can help regulate digestion, and it’s packed with vitamins like beta-carotene, potassium, and magnesium. Plain, canned pumpkin without any added sugar or spices is ideal. A spoonful or two mixed into their regular food can make a tasty and festive addition to their diet, and the fibre content is especially useful if your dog has a sensitive stomach. To complete the holiday feel, add in a few of these Fruitables Pumpkin & Cranberry Dog Treats. This oven-baked crunchy treat made with pumpkin and cranberries with a touch of cinnamon will drive your dog into a drooling frenzy.

Carrots

Carrots are a popular treat for dogs year-round, but they can be a special addition during the holiday season. These crunchy vegetables are full of beta-carotene, which promotes good vision and immune health. Carrots are also low in calories, making them a perfect option for dogs who are prone to weight gain. Whether raw or lightly steamed, carrots are a fun and nutritious snack that your dog can enjoy alongside the holiday spread.

Apples

Apples aren’t a traditional Christmas food in the way that dishes like turkey, cranberries, or sweet potatoes are, but they do often appear in holiday settings. Apples are a key ingredient in many festive desserts, like apple pies, crisps, and mulled drinks, and they offer a natural sweetness that many dogs enjoy. Rich in fibre and vitamin C, apples make a refreshing and healthy treat that can be included in your dog’s holiday menu. It’s essential to remove the core and seeds before giving apples to your dog, as they contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful to the dog if ingested. A few apple slices can add a nice sweetness and crunch to their holiday meal. For an extra touch of holiday cheer, offer your dog an ”apple” toy that complements their festive meal, and we have the perfect toy in mind! It’s the Studio Ollie Nosework Dog Toy (Apple). This toy will definitely keep your pups out of trouble by tiring their active brains with nosework.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a classic holiday side dish that can be safely shared with dogs. They’re packed with vitamins C and K, along with antioxidants that support a healthy immune system. As with all green veggies, these mini green veggies are also high in fibre. If you want to include Brussels sprouts in your dog’s holiday meal, make sure they’re steamed or lightly roasted without any butter, seasonings, or added salt. A couple of sprouts, cut into bite-sized pieces, are a festive and nutritious addition to your dog’s plate.

Peas

Peas are a nutritious vegetable often included in dog-friendly recipes. They’re full of vitamins A, K, and B vitamins, along with iron and zinc. Both cooked and raw peas are fine for dogs, but they should be served plain, without butter or seasoning. Frozen peas are also a good option and can provide a bit of crunch that many dogs find enjoyable.

Cranberries

Cranberries are another seasonal favourite. These berries can be safe for dogs to eat in moderation. They are tart, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and can help support urinary health and immune function. However, it’s essential to give cranberries to dogs in small quantities and ensure they are plain, as cranberries used in holiday recipes are often sweetened. A few fresh or frozen cranberries can add a hint of holiday flavour to your dog’s meal. Do take note that these berries are tart, and not all dogs enjoy the tartness! But not to worry, there are many dog cranberry-flavoured dog treats that your pup will love, like this Happi Skippi (Happi Doggy) JUST Freeze Dried Cat & Dog Treats (Salmon & Cranberry).

Roast Beef

Roast beef can be a delicious treat for dogs when served plain and in small amounts. Beef is high in protein, iron, and B vitamins, all of which support energy and overall health. However, it’s essential to give only lean cuts and ensure the meat is cooked without any seasonings, garlic, or onions, as these can be harmful to dogs. Avoid fatty parts or skin, as they can upset a dog’s stomach. A few small, lean slices of unseasoned roast beef are a perfect way to share the holiday spirit with your furry friend while keeping them safe and satisfied.

Holiday Foods to Avoid

While there are many foods dogs can enjoy, the holiday season also brings several ingredients that can be harmful. Keep these off-limits to protect your pet’s health:

Chocolate: Found in many holiday desserts, chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms from vomiting to serious cardiac issues.
Grapes and Raisins: Even small amounts of grapes or raisins can lead to kidney failure in dogs, so keep holiday cakes and treats containing these far from your pup’s reach.
Onions: These are common in holiday dishes and are highly toxic to dogs, leading to gastrointestinal upset and even blood-related issues.
Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs. Keep wine, eggnog, and other alcoholic beverages out of reach, as dogs are often curious about sweet-smelling drinks.
Macadamia Nuts: Often found in cookies and holiday treats, macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, and tremors in dogs. Avoid sharing any desserts or dishes that contain nuts.

Holiday Safety Tips for Feeding Your Dog

In addition to knowing which foods are safe, there are some extra precautions to keep in mind:

Portion Control: Even with safe foods, it’s best to stick to small portions. A few bites are enough to let your dog enjoy the taste without causing digestive upset.
Introduce Foods Gradually: If your dog hasn’t had a certain type of food before, introduce it gradually and in small amounts to ensure they don’t have an allergic reaction or upset stomach.
Supervision: Ensure you’re present when your dog eats holiday foods, especially if there are bones, to prevent choking.
Avoid Table Scraps: It’s a good idea to prepare a separate plate for your dog with dog-safe foods. Table scraps can be risky, as they may contain unsafe ingredients or seasonings.

Wrapping Up Your Dog’s Holiday Feast

Including your dog in the holiday festivities can be a joyful experience for you both, but it’s important to ensure they only consume foods that are safe for their digestive systems. These ten dog-friendly holiday foods allow you to share the holiday spirit without compromising your dog’s health. Remember, moderation is key, as even safe foods can cause digestive upset if given in large amounts. For added fun, you may want to wrap a few holiday dog treats in a festive nosework stocking designed just for dogs!