Here is a list of safe foods approved by the American Kennel Club:

Sweet Potatoes: are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and beta-carotene," says Dr. Richter. Just remember not to give your pet sweet potatoes containing any added ingredients or raw. 

* Important information to consider about using sweet potatoes as the main source of their diet and going grain-free. Sweet potatoes are safe to give your dog as a treat and on in intermittent based schedule:*

"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently issued an alert about reports of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain pet foods containing peas, lentils, other legume seeds, or potatoes as main ingredients. DCM is a disease of the heart muscle that leads to reduced heart pumping function and increased heart size. The alterations in heart function and structure can result in severe consequences such as congestive heart failure or sudden cardiac death. While the most common cause of DCM is genetic, on rare occasions other factors can also result in the condition, particularly in breeds that are not frequently affected." -UC Davis School of Medicine

Potatoes: Make sure to give only boiled or baked potatoes with no butter, sour cream, salt, or pepper, and served in moderation.

Apples: Apples are full of vitamins A and C and contain lots of great fiber, making them a healthy Thanksgiving treat for your pet," says Dr. Richter. "However, if you're sharing an apple with your pooch, be sure to cut around the core, as large amounts of apple seeds can be toxic."

Turkey Meat: NO BONES & NO SKIN. For those that wonder if your dog can eat turkey on Thanksgiving, the answer is yes. The main dish is okay to offer up "as long as it has not been prepared with any seasoning," says Dr. Ochoa. In addition to avoiding bones as discussed above, Dr. Klein advises owners to skip out on feeding the skin as well. The outer layer of the poultry is likely to have been prepared with butter, spices, or other fatty ingredients that may cause pancreatitis or other issues for your dog.

"It may be tempting to offer up the turkey bones to include your dog in your family's celebratory feast. But, because they can potentially cause damage to your pet's digestive tract, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends keeping them out of reach. However, though turkey bones are off the table, there's no need for your pet to feel left out." -American Kennel Club

Green Beans: "With ample amounts of plant fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and K, plain green beans are great for dogs," says Dr. Richter. Again, the beans must be served plain, without any added ingredients like butter or spices.

Pumpkin: As you know, Tazasaurus Biscuits already promotes pumpkin as a very healthy snack. Dr. Richter. explains, "Pumpkin helps with digestive health and it is great for a dog's skin and coat. Also, if feeding canned pumpkin, make sure it's just pumpkin and not the pre-spiced pie mix."

Dessert: The American Kennel Club states to go ahead and satisfy your pet's sweet tooth with something healthy like frozen yogurt, suggests Dr. Richter. Calcium, protein, and live bacteria that can act as probiotics will give your dog a tasty dose of nutrients, and a sweet post-meal treat.

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Here is a list of unsafe foods to avoid:

• Turkey bones, skin, and gravy
• Stuffing
• Casseroles
• Mashed potatoes
• Creamed peas
• Chocolate, cookies, pies, and sweets (especially anything containing xylitol)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Raisins and grapes
• Onions, scallions, and garlic
• Ham
• Yeast dough
• Fatty foods
• Foods containing spices

If your pet gets into something they shouldn't, seek help right away. In the event of an emergency, contact the Pet Poison Helpline or your local vet that offers weekend and after-hours services.

REFERENCES

Anastasio, Alexandra. 2018. Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes? American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-sweet-potatoes/.

Kearl, Mary. 2020. Safe and Healthy Foods To Share With Your Dogs This Thanksgiving, Plus Foods To Avoid. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/thanksgiving-foods-to-share-with-your-dog-or-avoid/.