It’s Christmas time and the season of giving isn’t just for humans, we all feel a little more generous at this time of year, and with family and friends descending on your house it’s important to set some ground rules on what dogs can and can’t eat at Christmas. It’s important to remember that not all human foods are safe for our four-legged friends.
What not to feed your dog at Christmas (or any time of year, for that matter):
- Chocolate: We all know chocolate is a no-no for dogs, but it’s worth repeating. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even death. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate are the most dangerous, but all forms of chocolate should be kept well out of reach of your furry friend.
- Alcohol: I know it seems silly, but it’s worth repeating – It’s never a good idea to give your dog alcohol, even in small amounts. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even death.
- Cooked bones: Cooked bones can splinter easily and cause blockages or tears in your dog’s digestive system. It’s best to stick to raw bones.
- Onions and garlic: These common ingredients can cause anemia in dogs and should be avoided.
- Nuts: Many types of nuts, including macadamia nuts and almonds, can be toxic to dogs so keep an eye out if any drop on the floor.
- Raisins and grapes: These seemingly harmless treats can cause kidney issues in dogs. Symptoms may not appear for a few days after eating, so it’s important to keep these fruits well out of reach.
- Fatty foods: Rich, fatty foods like gravy, stuffing, and bacon can cause pancreatitis in dogs, so let’s not let dogs finish off your leftovers or lick the gravy from your plate. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Artificial sweeteners: Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener (commonly associated with peanut butter but is in plenty of products), is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release, leading to low blood sugar. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.
Stick to their regular dog food and treats, and keep an eye on your guests to make sure they’re not slipping your dog a treat they shouldn’t be having.
In fact, if you do want to give your dog something special this Christmas, then try and stick to these options:
What dogs can eat at Christmas
Cooked, plain turkey: Turkey is a lean protein that can be a great addition to your dog’s diet. Just be sure to remove the skin and bones, as these can be harmful.
Cooked, plain vegetables: Vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are all safe for dogs to eat. Just be sure to cook them and remove any seasonings or sauces.
Special Christmas dog treats: If you’re anything like us then no doubt your family spoil your dog as much as they would a child. They’ll likely have plenty of their own treats to get through, so stick to feeding them those in moderation.
Have a safe and wonderful Christmas!