A Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving 2025: Comfort, Calm, and Easy Treat Recipes

Let’s Talk Turkey...... and Gratitude 🐶

Thanksgiving is here, the season of stretchy pants, irresistible aromas, and “just one more bite.” As the kitchen buzzes and plates pile high, your companion’s eyes are locked on one thing: opportunity.

Between wagging tails, dropped morsels, and a house full of guests, it’s easy for the day to get chaotic. So we’ve gathered quick, easy tips (and three simple recipes) to help keep your dog safe, calm, and comfy, and let them join the celebration without the stress.

1. Keep It Safe, Simple, and Snack-Free (Mostly)

A few Thanksgiving favorites can turn into no-go zones for dogs. Here’s what to avoid and what’s perfectly safe to sneak their way.

Skip the:

• Turkey bones, gravy, stuffing, or anything with garlic, onions, or rich butter

• Grapes, raisins, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol!)

• Seasoned meats and fatty leftovers can upset sensitive tummies

Share the (safe) love:

• Plain, cooked turkey breast

• Steamed green beans

• A spoonful of unsweetened pumpkin or mashed sweet potato

Pro tip: Set up a “dog-safe snack station” with pre-portioned bites, it keeps the begging at bay and lets any guests join in the fun safely.

2. Create a Cozy Thanksgiving Retreat

While guests mingle and the kitchen hums, give your companion a calm place to unwind.

Easy comfort ideas:

• Add a Roxy Ortho ® Rug or Ruby Ortho Square Bed to a quiet corner for the ultimate retreat.

• Top it with a Raine Cozy Waterproof Blanket®, perfect for catching crumbs and cuddles.

• Keep a favorite toy or chew nearby for entertainment.

• Play soft background music to muffle the noise (and the blender).

🎶 Think of it as your dog’s “spa suite” peace, comfort, and zero turkey temptations. (Check out our blog to find what tunes make your companions' tails wag.)

3. Quick 2–5 Ingredient Thanksgiving Treats

When you’re already in cooking mode, these easy recipes fit right in, no stress, no fancy prep, just quick love from your kitchen.

Sweet Potato Bites

You’ll need:

• 1 cooked organic sweet potato (mashed)

• 1 organic egg

• 1 ½ cups organic oat flour (or blended oats)

How to:

1. Mix everything together.

2. Shape into balls or flatten slightly.

3. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

Soft, healthy, and rich in natural sweetness , perfect for sensitive bellies.

Turkey & Cranberry Mini Patties

You’ll need:

• ½ cup plain organic cooked turkey (no seasoning or skin)

• 1 tbsp unsweetened organic cranberry sauce

• 1 organic egg

How to:

1. Mix, form small patties, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

2. Cool and serve (or store in the fridge for later).

A safe, savory twist your dog will adore.

Pumpkin Oat Cookies

You’ll need:

• ½ cup plain organic canned pumpkin (not pie filling)

• 1 cup rolled organic oats

• 1 tbsp organic peanut butter (xylitol-free)

How to:

1. Mix all ingredients.

2. Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined sheet.

3. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Simple, seasonal, and naturally rich in fiber, the perfect “dessert.”

4. Keep the Chaos Comfortable

Between visitors, cleanup, and leftovers, don’t forget your companion’s comfort, and maybe yours, too.

A few small gestures go a long way:

• Keep their bed or blanket nearby during dinner; it helps them feel included without being underfoot.

• Offer gentle reassurance if they get anxious from noise or guests.

• For road trips, use an Animals Matter® Car Seat or Seat Cover to make travel secure and stress-free.

Thanksgiving memories are best when everyone feels loved and included.

❤️ 5. Gratitude, Joy, and Cozy Moments

At the heart of Thanksgiving is love, and few beings remind us of it better than our dogs. Between wagging tails, quiet naps, and those big, hopeful eyes, they show us what gratitude truly means.

So as you enjoy your feast, don’t forget to savor the simple things: warmth, comfort, and the loyal presence curled up at your feet.

At Animals Matter®, we’re endlessly thankful for you, our incredible community of customers who trust us to bring comfort, happiness, and care to their companions. Your support allows us to continue crafting luxurious, ethical, and compassionate products that reflect the love you share with your dogs every day.

We’re deeply moved by every photo and story you share, from snuggles in a Roxy Puff®, to cozy naps under a Raine Waterproof Blanket®, to that first proud ride in a Companion Car Seat. Each one reminds us how unique and cherished every companion truly is.

As this season of gratitude unfolds, we wish you and your loved ones, two-legged and four-legged alike,  a safe, joyful, and beautifully cozy Thanksgiving.

Thank you for letting us be a small part of your story, your home, and your companion’s happiness.

With gratitude and love,
The Animals Matter® Family 🩵

🐾Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs)

1. What Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs?
Plain turkey, pumpkin, green beans, and sweet potatoes (unseasoned) are safe and healthy.

2. How can I keep my dog calm during Thanksgiving?
Set up a quiet retreat with their favorite bed or blanket, maintain routines, and offer soft background music.

3. Can dogs eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Yes, only plain, cooked turkey without bones, skin, or seasoning.

4. What are quick, homemade Thanksgiving treats for dogs?
Sweet Potato Bites, Pumpkin Oat Cookies, and Turkey & Cranberry Mini Patties.

5. How do I make Thanksgiving safer for my dog?
Avoid harmful foods, secure the trash, limit crowd stress, and provide a comfy space to relax.