Why We’re So Grateful for Our Dogs This Thanksgiving!
It’s the season of gratitude, gravy, and good boys and girls! As we gather ‘round the table for turkey, mashed potatoes, and maybe a slice (or two) of pie, let’s take a moment to paws—literally—and give thanks for our furry best friends who make every day howliday-worthy.
Because let’s face it: life would be ruff without them! Here’s why:
They’re Pup-fessionals at Living in the Moment
Dogs are the true Zen masters of the household. Whether they’re chasing squirrels, excitedly wagging their tails at the mail carrier, or snoozing through the football game, they remind us to live in the current moment. No stress, no to-do lists, just joy, love, and the occasional belly rub. They don’t sweat the small stuff; they just fetch happiness wherever they go. Now that’s something to wag about!
Their Love is Fur Real
Bad hair day? Burned the rolls? Accidentally dropped the pie (okay, maybe that one’s not so bad—our fur kid definitely won’t mind)? No matter what happens, our pups still look at us like we’re top dog.
With a loyalty that’s unshakable, unconditional, and devoted. Their love is off the leash! That’s the kind of pure affection Thanksgiving is made for.
They Make Our Lives Paws-itively Better
From muddy paw prints on the floor, to slobbery kisses on the face, dogs have a way of making our lives messier—but at the same time, infinitely more magical. Their goofy grins, happy zoomies, and tail wagging turn ordinary days into extraordinary adventures!
Who needs perfection, anyway, when we’ve got puppy eyes and unconditional love in our lives?
They Teach Us to Be Grateful—and to Always Save Room for Treats
Most importantly, our dogs remind us that gratitude doesn’t come from grand gestures—it’s about the simple things: a cozy nap, a good walk, or a shared snack (dog-safe only, of course!). They show us that joy can be as simple as a wag, a nuzzle, or a quiet moment together.
When Including our Fur Kids in our Thanksgiving Meals…
We all know those pleading eyes under the dinner table—and who can resist? Sharing the holiday joy with our dogs is wonderful, but it’s important to know what’s safe to share and what’s better left off their plate.
Dog-Safe Thanksgiving Treats – Yes, please!
In moderation, these treats are safe for most dogs:
- Plain turkey (fully cooked, no bones, no skin, no seasoning)
- Sweet potatoes or pumpkin (plain, cooked, and unseasoned—not the sugary pie filling!)
- Green beans or peas (plain and unsalted)
- Carrots (raw or cooked, no butter or salt)
- A spoonful of plain mashed potatoes (sadly, without the butter, cream or gravy, the best parts)
Tip: Think of it as a “nibble,” not a meal. Small portions go a long way for sensitive tummies!
Foods to Keep Out of Paw’s Reach – No go.
Some Thanksgiving favorites can be harmful to our pup. Avoid giving:
- Turkey bones, skin, or drippings (can cause choking or pancreatitis)
- Stuffing, gravy, or buttery casseroles
- Onions, garlic, scallions, or chives (toxic to dogs)
- Grapes and raisins (can cause kidney failure)
- Chocolate, nuts, and sweets, especially anything with xylitol (a natural sugar alcohol)
If you want to make your pup feel extra special, whip up a their own “paw-liday” plate of pet-safe goodies—they’ll be thankful! To make things both easy AND delicious, why not give Bark Bowls™ Turkey Fare Dinner a try? Simply open, mix-in the turkey topper with the kibble, present to your pup, and watch them enjoy! They’ll be doing their favorite turkey imitation and “gobbling” it up in no time!
A Season of Gratitude
This Thanksgiving, let’s celebrate all the ways our pets make life better. Their unconditional love, loyal companionship, and happy spirits remind us daily that gratitude isn’t about things—it’s about the hearts that love us back.
So, as you pass the turkey and laugh around the table, don’t forget the ones who wait patiently at our feet or curl up beside us. Because Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without our canine companions.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your pup—from your Bark Bowls™ family!
