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How To Celebrate Thanksgiving with Your Puppy

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Thanksgiving is a time of year for delicious food and quality time with family—your puppy included! From making food to setting the tables, preparing for the Turkey Day festivities can be challenging.  Seeing such busy behavior from their loved ones can make a puppy anxious. You may feel it’s best to place your fur-baby in […]

Thanksgiving is a time of year for delicious food and quality time with family—your puppy included! From making food to setting the tables, preparing for the Turkey Day festivities can be challenging. 

Seeing such busy behavior from their loved ones can make a puppy anxious. You may feel it’s best to place your fur-baby in a quiet room to calm them down. Well, that might not be a good idea.

Puppies are very social. They thrive off of human companionship. And depending on the breed, some pups may grow distressed if they’re away from their families for a long time. 

This Thanksgiving, let your puppy join in on the festive season! They may not be able to indulge in turkey or cranberry sauce, but if you follow our tips, they will still have fun.

1. Introduce your pup to your guests. 

If you’re inviting family and friends over for Turkey Day, it’s a good idea to introduce your puppy. Your guests may be wary of going near your furry friend for the first time. You can calm them down by showing your loved ones how to greet your cuddly pup. Pay special attention to young children, who may greet your puppy with overly exaggerated movements. And of course, be sure that your fur-baby is properly socialized to deal with strangers and crowds of people. 

2. Put an outfit on your puppy.

Before a holiday party, we always get ready by looking our best. Your puppy can look their best with a cute little outfit too! It doesn’t have to be an elaborate costume either; a little bandana or bowtie can instantly make your pup look dashing. If your puppy can handle wearing dog clothes, you can also purchase a Thanksgiving-themed shirt, dress, or even a costume. 

3. Engage with your puppy.

Your puppy may feel bored, especially after being left out of Thanksgiving dinner. Fortunately, there are many fun activities you can participate in with your furry friend. Go outside and play a game of fetch—you can even invite the younger guests to join in. If your family is sitting on the couch to watch the Thanksgiving parade, reserve a spot for your furry friend and cuddle together! You can also start a dog-friendly game with your guests. Any activity will help your puppy to alleviate their boredom. 

4. Keep Thanksgiving food away.

Turkey, pumpkin pies and cranberry sauce—these foods are a standard part of a Thanksgiving feast. Unfortunately, some of these foods are toxic to canines. Too much cranberry sauce, for example, can make your puppy feel very sick. Make sure you review a list of toxic foods that your puppy shouldn’t eat. You should also alert your guests to avoid feeding your fur-baby any table scraps. Instead, pass out healthy dog snacks if your relative wants to feed your pup. 

5. Start an after-dinner tradition.

What do you usually do after you finish eating? Watch TV? Gossip with relatives? Take a stroll around the neighborhood? If your puppy still has some energy left in their system, try playing a game or engaging them in an activity. We recommend anything that burns off all those calories. Bring out your puppy’s favorite toys and run around the yard as they chase you. Grab the leash and head outside for a walk. Be sure to repeat these traditions every year to ensure a happy bonding experience!

Thanksgiving is fun with your cute and cuddly friend by your side! Having your puppy join the holidays even gives them a chance to be part of the family. If you have a little time left over, you can even cook a little Thanksgiving meal for your fur-baby. Make sure your relatives and friends know how to handle and greet your puppy when they first enter your home. We hope that you and your furry friend have a wonderful Thanksgiving!