What to Do if Your Dog Eats Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude, but it can also be a time when curious dogs sneak a bite (or two) of something they shouldn’t. Whether it’s turkey skin, mashed potatoes, or a piece of pie, it’s easy for pets to get into leftovers when everyone’s focused on the festivities.

If your dog managed to snag some Thanksgiving food, don’t panic. Here’s how to handle it, what signs to watch for, and how to help your pup feel their best after the holiday feast.

Step 1: Identify What Your Dog Ate

The first thing to do is figure out exactly what your dog got into. Not all Thanksgiving foods are the same. Some are relatively harmless in small amounts, while others can be upsetting to their stomach.

Common foods that may cause digestive upset include:

• Fatty meats or turkey skin
• Stuffing with onions, garlic, or butter
• Gravy or rich sauces
• Mashed potatoes with dairy or seasonings
• Pie crusts or desserts containing chocolate, xylitol, or nutmeg

If you think your dog may have eaten something dangerous, like bones, chocolate, onions, grapes, or anything containing xylitol, contact your veterinarian right away. Even small amounts of these ingredients can be unsafe for pets, and quick action is the best way to keep them safe.

Step 2: Monitor for Signs of Digestive Discomfort

Once you’ve identified what your dog ate, keep a close eye on them for the next 24 hours. Every dog reacts differently depending on their size, age, and how much they ate.

Watch for things like:

• Lack of appetite
• Drooling
• Loose stool
• Excessive licking of lips
• Tiredness or discomfort

If your dog shows any signs that seem unusual or concerning, contact your vet for guidance. It’s always better to play it safe and get professional advice, especially during the holidays when rich foods can upset even healthy pets’ digestive systems.

Step 3: Give Their Stomach a Break

If your dog only had a small amount of non-toxic leftovers and seems to be acting normal, you can help their system recover by giving them a short break from rich foods. Offer small amounts of water and their regular food once their stomach has settled.

Avoid giving table scraps or additional treats during this time. Returning to their normal diet or providing a bland diet helps bring their digestion back into balance more quickly.

Step 4: Support Healthy Digestion

After a holiday mishap, it’s a good time to focus on long-term digestive wellness. Supporting your dog’s gut health helps them bounce back more easily and maintain a happy, healthy routine.

Adding daily supplements that promote healthy digestion, like a Digestive Powder with Postbiotics can help keep their system running smoothly year-round. Incorporating daily wellness support also helps pets handle small dietary changes or new foods more comfortably.

Step 5: Prevent Future Food Sneak Attacks

Once your pup is feeling better, take a few preventive steps to avoid repeat incidents.

• Keep leftovers sealed and out of reach.
• Remind guests not to share table food.
• Set aside a few pet-safe snacks so your dog can join in safely.

For example, offering your dog an Edibite during family mealtime can help them feel included without any risks. It’s also a great way to help them stay relaxed and content while guests are in your home.

Keeping Pets Safe and Happy This Holiday Season

Accidents happen, especially during busy celebrations. What matters most is staying calm, paying attention to your dog’s behavior, and giving their digestive system the gentle support it needs. With a little care and consistency, your pup will be back to their happy, curious self in no time. And moving forward, simple habits like mindful feeding routines and daily wellness support can help make every holiday safer and more enjoyable for the whole family.