Thanksgiving is a day for gratitude, food, and family, but for dog owners, it can also mean managing begging, barking, or the occasional food theft. Between the irresistible smells and dropped scraps, it’s no wonder dogs find the holiday table so tempting.
With structure, training, and awareness, you can make Thanksgiving enjoyable for both humans and dogs. Here’s how to keep your dog polite, calm, and safe during the big feast.
Why Training Matters During the Holidays
A well-trained dog makes the holidays less stressful for everyone. Basic obedience commands help you control excitement, prevent begging, and keep your pup out of the kitchen chaos.
The key skills for Thanksgiving success include:
- Place: Gives your dog a calm spot away from the table.
- Leave it: Prevents sneaky bites of unsafe foods.
- Down-stay: Encourages relaxation during meals.
Our Basic Obedience Program focuses on these exact commands, making your dog a calm, respectful guest in any setting.
Dangerous Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
Not all Thanksgiving dishes are safe for dogs. Some can cause serious health problems.
Avoid feeding your dog:
- Turkey bones (can splinter and cause internal injuries)
- Stuffing or gravy (often contains onion, garlic, or rich fats)
- Chocolate desserts
- Raisins and grapes
- Onions, leeks, and scallions
- Alcohol or anything containing xylitol
For a full breakdown of what foods to keep off your dog’s plate, see our earlier blog on summer foods that are and aren’t safe for dogs. The same safety principles apply to holiday feasts.
Establish Boundaries Before the Meal
Dogs don’t automatically know they can’t join the dinner table fun. Setting boundaries before guests arrive keeps things under control.
- Assign a place command during meal prep.
- Redirect begging behavior with calm, firm cues.
- Ask guests not to feed table scraps.
- Keep garbage cans secure to prevent scavenging.
Consistency between family members helps avoid confusion.
Checklist: Thanksgiving Manners for Dogs
Use this quick checklist to prepare your dog before the feast begins:
- Practice place and leave it commands in the days before Thanksgiving.
- Feed your dog before guests arrive to reduce begging.
- Keep guests informed about food safety rules.
- Have treats ready to reward calm behavior.
- Provide enrichment toys to keep your dog busy.
- Designate a quiet space for your dog to decompress if the crowd gets overwhelming.
Expert Insight
According to PetMD, fatty foods, bones, and certain ingredients commonly found in Thanksgiving dishes can cause pancreatitis and other serious health issues. Keeping your dog on a structured routine and sticking to their regular diet is the safest way to celebrate together.
FAQ: Thanksgiving with Dogs
Q: Can I give my dog any Thanksgiving leftovers?
A: Small portions of plain turkey breast, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin are fine, but avoid seasoning, skin, and gravy.
Q: My guests keep feeding my dog. What can I do?
A: Politely remind them that some foods are dangerous and provide safe treats they can offer instead.
Q: What if my dog becomes overstimulated?
A: Use place training to create space and reduce excitement. Calming background music and familiar toys can also help.
Q: How can I stop begging before it starts?
A: Reward your dog for staying in place before food is served. The earlier you set boundaries, the easier it becomes to maintain them.
Final Thoughts: Gratitude and Structure
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate togetherness, and that includes your dog. Structure, obedience, and awareness make it possible for your pup to share in the festivities safely.
When your dog understands what’s expected, they can relax, and you can focus on what matters most, gratitude, family, and peace of mind.
Want a well-behaved dog that makes every holiday stress-free? Contact us today to start your dog’s training journey before the next big celebration.