Don't Ditch Your Thanksgiving Leftovers. Make These Dog-Safe Snacks Instead
By: Lizz CaputoLet's indulge in some creative ways to turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into nutritious, dog-friendly treats. No more waste! Your dog agrees - it's the eco-friendly thing to do.
Staring at a fridge full of leftovers? Don't let them go to waste—your dog can enjoy a mini-Thanksgiving feast too. Here are some drool-worthy (and easy) snack ideas for your dog using classic holiday leftovers.
Disclaimer: Always consult your vet before introducing new foods into your pet's diet and remember to go easy on the portions. Avoid any ingredients high in fat (buttered foods, gravy), salt, or sugar.
1. Turkey and Veggie Dog Muffins
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked turkey, finely chopped
1/2 cup steamed green beans, chopped
1 egg
1 cup oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
Scoop the mixture into muffin tins.
Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Your dog will love these protein-packed muffins!
2. Sweet Potato Pup-Sicles
Ingredients:
1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Mix the mashed sweet potatoes and yogurt.
Pour the mixture into silicone ice cube molds.
Freeze until solid.
A tasty way to cool down after some outdoor play!
3. Green Bean Crunchies
Ingredients:
1 cup green beans, steamed and chopped
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 250°F.
Spread the green beans on a baking sheet.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until crispy.
Low in calories and high in nutrition—your dog will munch these up in no time!
4. Turkey & Cranberry Dog Treats
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked turkey, finely chopped
1/4 cup cranberry sauce (make sure it's sugar-free!)
2 cups oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
Bake for 20-25 minutes.
It's turkey and cranberries, but not as you know it!
5. Mashed Potato Pupcakes
Ingredients:
1 cup mashed potatoes (no butter or salt)
1/4 cup grated carrots
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
Scoop into muffin tins.
Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Let's just say, these aren't your mom's mashed potatoes!
From table scraps to tasty treats
Get creative and make this holiday season memorable for your dog as well. These dog-friendly snacks are not just delicious but also super healthy.
Plus, we’re all about working with what you have. So next time you're packing up those Thanksgiving leftovers, save a little something for your dog—they'll thank you with wagging tails.
Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.
