Thanksgiving is a day built around food, gratitude, and the people we love. For many of us, that includes our dogs. Whether you’re hosting at home or visiting someone else’s house, there are plenty of simple ways to make your dog part of the celebration. The key is knowing what kind of dog you have: social and friendly, shy or anxious, or somewhere in between.
Below are practical ways to help your dog feel comfortable, engaged, and safe during the holiday.
If You’re Staying Home
Social, People-Friendly Dogs
These dogs often love when the house is full of guests.
• Give them a special Thanksgiving chew or stuffed treat to enjoy while you’re cooking
• Allow them to mingle during relaxed portions of the day
• Let willing guests give them pets or treats
• Go on a pre-dinner walk to burn energy
Anxious or Easily Overwhelmed Dogs
A busy house can feel stressful.
• Create a quiet space with their bed, water, and toys
• Turn on soft music to help reduce noise from guests
• Offer long-lasting chews to keep them busy
• Have guests ignore them unless the dog initiates contact
• Schedule short breaks outside so they can decompress
If You’re Visiting Family or Friends
Social, People-Friendly Dogs
A new environment can be exciting.
• Bring your own treats, water bowl, and toys
• Take a walk before entering the home to loosen nerves and energy
• Keep a leash handy for structure when things get busy
• Watch body language to ensure they’re comfortable
Anxious or High-Energy Dogs
New places and people can feel overstimulating.
• Ask your host for a quiet spot to set up their bed
• Keep greetings calm and limited
• Plan breaks outside or short walks
• Bring enrichment toys or a stuffed treat to redirect focus
Safe Food Options
A few Thanksgiving foods are dog-friendly in small amounts.
• Plain turkey (no skin or seasoning)
• Plain green beans
• Plain pumpkin
• Plain sweet potato
Avoid garlic, onions, gravy, stuffing, desserts, and bones.
Activities to Include Your Dog
• Pre-meal walk
• Backyard ball or tug session
• Family photos with your dog
• Quiet time on the couch while watching football
• Holiday themed enrichment toys
When It’s Best to Give Them Space
Some dogs are happiest away from the action. If your dog guards food, struggles with strangers, or gets overwhelmed easily, it’s kinder to set them up in a calm room with a chew or puzzle. Inclusion doesn’t have to mean being in the middle of the crowd.
Gratitude for the Dogs
Thanksgiving is about connection. Including your dog — whether they’re greeting guests at the door or snoozing in a quiet corner — simply means honoring who they are and supporting them in a way that feels safe.
Your dog doesn’t need a big crowd to feel loved. A peaceful space, a good chew, and time with you is enough.
