Skip to main content

8 reasons you should be so grateful for your dog this Thanksgiving

Why you should be thankful for your dog — not only on Thanksgiving, but year-round

Ah, Thanksgiving — the best time of year to be a dog! Everyone has food. There’s always someone to play with. And naps are readily encouraged. Between having you at home and getting to try delicious human food, your pup certainly has a lot to be thankful for!

Let’s turn the tables, though: Why are you grateful for your dog? Maybe it’s their companionship or the never-ending ways they make you laugh. Many pup parents know just how tricky it is to narrow down the reasons why their furry friend lights up their life, especially when each dog has their own adorable personality and quirks.

Recommended Videos

Below are just eight of the infinite reasons why you should be thankful for your dog this November. What would you add to the list?

Yellow lab begs at the Thanksgiving table
Image used with permission by copyright holder

1. They’re the perfect cuddle buddy for chilly fall days — exactly like Thanksgiving morning!

As winter creeps closer, you and your fur baby will surely start to notice a change in the weather. Odds are, the trees have already let go of their leaves, and maybe you and your pup are bundled up in their winter wear as we speak.

Since it’s the cozy season, you may want to indulge in a few cuddles with your furry friend while you watch Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade from the comfort of your couch. Even a little lap dog can feel as warm as a big fleece blanket, so what are you waiting for? Get your snuggle on!

A dog sits on a chair next to a dining room set for Thanksgiving
nzozo / Shutterstock

2. Who needs a vacuum when you have a dog? They’ll pick up anything you drop this Thanksgiving

Instead of stressing out over creating a spotless home, let your pup get in on the cleaning action. They’ll be the first on the scene in the event of any edible spills — it’ll be like nothing even fell in the first place! In all seriousness, though, do keep an eye on what your dog gets their chompers on.

They can be a fantastic companion while you get ready for the holidays, whether you’re cleaning, cooking, or decorating. Plus, how cute do they look among all the fall colors?

A Shiba Inu dog looks back at the camera with a pumpkin and autumn leaves on the ground behind
NancyP5 / Shutterstock

3. Your pup is the perfect “pawtner” for Thanksgiving activities, whether it’s football, cooking, or cuddles

No matter what time of day it is or what you’re planning to do, your pup is up for a party — though we don’t blame you if your idea of “partying” includes a nap or two. A good meal and a rest are two of human life’s simplest pleasures, and there’s no reason your canine companion shouldn’t enjoy a seasonal snooze and a special (dog-friendly) meal too.

Your dog may also enjoy a round of football or Frisbee before Thanksgiving dinner, especially if you include your whole family. Even if your doggo doesn’t play by the rules, they’re sure to be the star player.

A brown dog wearing a pumpkin headband poses next to a box of autumn vegetables
Maya Shustov / Shutterstock

4. Dogs put smiles on faces and provide endless entertainment, whether you’re a guest or their owner

Whether scooting in for a cuddle or stealing a turkey drumstick off the dinner table, dogs are endlessly entertaining. You can never expect the same thing twice, especially when it comes to fun family gatherings. Even though you may have to chase down your fur baby for the remnants of your dinner, your family will be too busy laughing to notice the rumpus your sneaky pup has caused.

Two Pembroke Welsh corgis chew on a pumpkin on an autumn picnic
ElfinFox / Pixabay

5. They’ll help take care of the leftovers — the canine-safe ones, that is!

If your fridge is a bit too packed after a successful Thanksgiving, there’s someone in your house who’s more than willing to help out. There are many safe Thanksgiving foods for dogs, including pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and carefully prepared turkey.

Make sure not to overfeed your dog or swap out too much of their regular food. Even safe ingredients can cause stomach upset in more sensitive pups. Turns out there can be too much of a good thing!

Two cute dogs sitting wearing turkey Thanksgiving hats
Image used with permission by copyright holder

6. Dogs don’t judge, not even while you’re stuffing your face

There’s almost nothing that matches a dog’s unconditional love. No matter who you are or what you do, your four-legged friend will always be your biggest fan. They’ll be there for you after the Thanksgiving feast, when you swear that you’ll never eat so much again. (And they’ll be there next year when you say the very same thing.)

A young man sits with his arm around his dog in front of a lake with their backs to the camera
Aleksey Boyko / Shutterstock

7. You (and your food) will have your dog’s attention all day long. It’s a dream come true!

Where are the food-motivated pups at? This one’s for you!

Be prepared to have a Velcro pet for the day! Thanksgiving is basically Christmas for dogs who love a good snack (all dogs, in other words), so don’t be afraid to indulge them a little, but not before taking advantage of their increased alertness, of course. Training time, anyone?

A black labradoodle stands in a pile of autumn leaves

8. They really are your best friend, 365 days of the year

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any day of the year, it’s always a good idea to be consciously grateful for the best bud by your side. Just think of all the memories you’ve made together and all the hard times your sweet pup has helped you through. Dogs will love you purely, whether you’re sharing festive activities or just sharing snacks, so take in every moment!

A Bloodhound sneezing as autumn leaves fall around him
olgagorovenko / Shutterstock

There’s no shortage of reasons to be thankful for your beloved pupper, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate them. Whether you write out a list of what you’re grateful for or just take a few moments to reflect, make sure to pencil in some time for just you and your best buddy this Thanksgiving — even if it’s only for a nap or a walk.

Topics
Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank has written for sites such as Psych2Go, Elite Daily, and, currently, PawTracks. When she's not writing, you…
8 easy and affordable small dog Halloween costume ideas that are perfect for both tricks and treats
Try one of these costumes for your little dog
French bulldog dog dressed up with funny cactus Halloween dog costume

With so much spooky cuteness rolled up into a four-legged package, it’s tough to top dogs in Halloween costumes. Everyone you meet is in for a treat, especially when you have a well-thought-out outfit for your pup. And maybe they'll see a trick, too, if your dog is up for it.

These small dog Halloween costumes pack an extra punch of sweetness with their miniature sizing, but many come (or can be made) in various sizes. From DIYs to store bestsellers, these outfits for petite pups will surely be winners come Halloween night. These are our eight frighteningly (or not so much) fabulous favorites.
DIY your dog a pair of custom bat or dragon wings

Read more
Can dogs have apples? What you need to know about feeding this fruit to your pet
How to safely prepare apples to share with your dog
An Alaskan malamute bites into an apple

Although dogs are renowned meat lovers, a balanced diet is essential for the health of your pet. They shouldn't eat only protein. Fruit is one food group that’s often overlooked when it comes to canines, though many fruits — like apples — are actually wonderful additions to mealtimes and treat menus.
Can dogs have apples? Are apples safe for dogs? We get it — you have questions. In this article, we’ll review everything you need to know about feeding your dog apples, so by the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel ready to hit the grocery store.

Are apples safe for dogs?

Read more
Do dogs sweat? We’ll tell you everything you need to know
Dogs and sweat and how keep your pet cool
Tri-color dog panting

"Never let them see you sweat" is standard advice when the going gets tough. However, you may never have seen your dog sweat — and not because they're trying to keep calm and carry on even if your work schedule changes. However, just because you don't see a dog sweating doesn't mean they aren't.

Do dogs sweat? The short answer is yes, dogs sweat, even if you likely don't notice when they do. Like humans, canines sweat during and after exercise, in hot environments, and when they're stressed. However, dogs sweat differently than humans. Here's what to know about dog sweat and when to be concerned. We'll also share critical tips on how else to keep your dog safe in hot weather when sweat may not be enough.
Do dogs sweat?

Read more