Classic, traditional holiday foods include many items that are nutritious for dogs. These include meats, vegetables and more. But a few issues often arise. Here is how to handle them to make holiday foods dog friendly.
One problem is the issue of spice, salt, fat and more.
Problem: Many holiday foods are nutritious, but they are spiced or otherwise flavored in a way that may not agree with dogs. Foods are too spicy, salty, fried or otherwise enhanced for our meal.
Solution: Save out a little of some foods. Keep them plain, and then share with your dog. If you have a small dog, save a couple teaspoons. If you have a large dog, save a couple tablespoons.
Example: While making mashed potatoes, take a couple spoonfuls out before you add cream, butter, salt and other ingredients. Set aside for a time when you feel comfortable sharing with your dog.
Another problem is unfamiliar ingredients.
This is something I talk about all the time. I have seen time and time again, that a healthy homemade diet full of meats, vegetables, oils and other items can enhance health and sometimes manage certain health issues. BUT…. I always stress to well intentioned pet parents that we need to make a slow transition.
This means not serving a whole bowl full of unfamiliar foods. The sudden change may upset a dog’s GI tract.
Rather, I always suggest making a slow, but steady trend in the direction of a healthier diet. So, with that, I would stick to the above teaspoon or tablespoon of holiday foods, if your dog is not already used to eating these kinds of things. And when you are ready to make a slow but steady transition to a more beneficial diet, please let me help! Visit my Services page to choose an option that works for you.
Another issue is that some foods we serve have additives that upset a dog’s belly.
Problem: Turkey, often the star of the holiday show, can contain additives.
Additives in many store bought turkeys include sodium phosphate, which has been linked to diarrhea, intestinal issues and possible kidney damage. It is not clear what amount causes harm. But I came across this article about it: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609019.html
For humans, hopefully the amount we eat on a holiday splurge will not harm us. For dogs, who are smaller and may have different digestive abilities or sensitive bellies, it may take even less of it to cause an issue. I don’t like the idea of sharing a lot of store bought turkey with my dogs, beyond perhaps a taste. If you are lucky enough to find a turkey with no additives, then that would be wonderful!
Solution: Don’t over-indulge your dog in commercial turkey or other foods with additives, beyond perhaps a small taste. Focus on unspiced sides like sweet potato, white potato and vegetables, or a taste of another variety of meat you might be serving. Check nutrition labels for any additives or other ingredients that may potentially cause a problem.
In summary…
Including your dog in your holiday routines can be easy, rewarding and healthy. In fact, you can do this not just during holidays, but year round! Here is an article I wrote about ways to do this:
And here is a short video of my sweet potato and white potatoes, prepared in a dog friendly way. Enjoy! ~ Sarah