Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and gratitude—and if your dog is part of the family, there’s no reason they should be left out of the celebration! Whether you're hosting dinner, traveling, or enjoying a cozy day at home, there are plenty of fun and thoughtful ways to include your dog in Thanksgiving traditions. Here are five dog-friendly activities that will help your pup feel included while keeping the day safe, joyful, and stress-free.
1. Make a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Plate
Instead of slipping scraps under the table, create a safe plate just for your pup using dog-approved foods like: ✔ Turkey (plain, boneless, skinless) ✔ Sweet potatoes (no butter or marshmallows) ✔ Green beans (plain, not casserole) ✔ Pumpkin purée (100% pumpkin) This gives your dog a festive meal without the harmful seasonings and heavy ingredients typical in holiday dishes. For an even healthier option, serve human-grade treats like Pooch Perfect Jerky from Patty’s Pet Foods—no guesswork, just ingredients you trust.
2. Plan a Thanksgiving Walk or Outdoor Adventure
Burn off calories before or after the feast with a fall-themed walk or hike. This is great for both humans and pups, especially active breeds. Fun twists to make it special:
- Take family photos with your dog in fall scarves or bandanas 🍁
- Bring dog treats for a trail-side snack
- Invite other dog-owning friends or neighbors for a group walk
A little exercise helps reduce stress and keeps your dog calm when guests arrive.
3. Create a Thanksgiving Dog Photoshoot
Holiday photos aren’t just for humans! Set up a simple scene using fall and Thanksgiving props like pumpkins, leaves, or a themed background. Photo ideas: 📸 "Thankful for My Dog" sign 📸 Matching sweaters or bandanas 📸 Portraits with kids or grandparents These photos make great keepsakes—and perfect social content for pet parents!
4. Include Your Dog in Family Traditions
Many families have rituals like gratitude circles, games, or pre-dinner prayers. You can easily add your dog into the fun:
- Let kids say what they’re grateful for about their pet
- Have your dog deliver a "gift" like a toy or chew to each family member
- Include your dog in family group photos
Small touches make your dog feel like part of the celebration rather than a bystander.
5. Give a Special Thanksgiving Treat or Chew
While you enjoy pie and dessert, give your pup a safe treat of their own—especially helpful when guests are still eating or mingling. Great choices:
- Chill-Out Calming Chews (perfect for anxious pups around guests)
- Single-ingredient jerky for a long-lasting, healthy reward
- Holiday chew bundles (turkey-themed or pumpkin-flavored treats)
This keeps dogs occupied, reduces begging, and makes the evening more enjoyable for everyone.
🧡 Celebrate Together, Safely & Stress-Free
Including your dog in Thanksgiving doesn’t require complicated plans—just thoughtful, safe choices. When you prioritize human-grade ingredients, dog-safe activities, and a little festive fun, your pup gets to enjoy the holiday right alongside the family.
🍗 Give Your Dog a Healthier Holiday Treat
Skip the dangerous table scraps and celebrate with wholesome snacks instead!
👉 Shop Human-Grade Treats at Patty’s Pet Foods Perfect for Thanksgiving, travel days, and cozy fall nights.