4 Christmas Foods to Avoid For Your Dog
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Ah, Christmas. The season of twinkling lights, endless carols, and tables groaning under the weight of festive feasts. While you're busy stuffing your face with mince pies and reaching for another serving of roast potatoes, there's probably one furry face staring up at you with hopeful puppy-dog eyes, wishing for a taste of festive cheer.
But hold your reindeer – not everything on your plate is safe for your pooch. In fact, some festive foods are downright dangerous for dogs. So, here's our guide to four Christmas foods you should keep far away from your furry friend.
Table of contents
The Importance of Checking Ingredients
When it comes to sharing festive food with your dog, it’s always essential to check the ingredients before giving them a taste. Many foods, even ones that seem safe at first glance, can contain hidden ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Here are some important things to look out for:
- Garlic and onion: These common seasonings can cause serious damage to a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anaemia.
- Preservatives and sweeteners: Some preservatives or artificial sweeteners (like xylitol) can be toxic to dogs.
- Chocolate: Even a small amount of chocolate can lead to poisoning, as it contains theobromine, which dogs cannot process.
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Hidden artificial additives: Many packaged foods, including treats, can contain chemicals or artificial ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
Always read labels carefully, and if you're unsure about an ingredient, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep it away from your dog. This extra step ensures that your dog stays safe and happy, avoiding any unwelcome visits to the vet.
1. Christmas Pudding & Mince Pies
“Surely just a nibble can’t hurt?” you might think. But when it comes to Christmas pudding and mince pies, think again! These holiday treats are loaded with dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants. What’s festive for us can be fatal for dogs. Grapes (and their dried cousins) are known to cause severe kidney failure in our canine companions – and trust us, a trip to the emergency vet is not the kind of Christmas memory you want.
The Naughty List Rundown : Raisins, sultanas, and currants are a no-go for dogs. Even a small amount can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy, with the potential for serious complications.
2. Chocolate Santa (or any chocolate)
We love a bit of chocolate to cap off Christmas dinner, but dogs? They should never, ever share in this indulgence. Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that dogs metabolize much more slowly than humans do, making it toxic. The darker the chocolate, the higher the risk. That chocolate Santa on your tree? Strictly human-only. And no sneaky taste-testing for Fido!
The Naughty List Rundown : Vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and even seizures are possible symptoms of chocolate poisoning. And yes, even small amounts can cause major issues.
3. Stuffing & Gravy
Stuffing and gravy are often packed with ingredients that are a hard “no” for dogs. Garlic, onions, leeks, and chives – these all belong to the allium family, and they can wreak havoc on a dog’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anaemia. While you might love a generous helping of gravy on your Christmas dinner, it's best not to 'treat' your pup to any dribbles.
The Naughty List Rundown: Onion and garlic poisoning can cause stomach upset, lethargy, and weakness. Chronic exposure (like leftover meals over a few days) can be especially dangerous.
4. Bones from the Roast
It’s a classic image – a dog gnawing on a bone under the table. But when it comes to cooked bones, especially those from Christmas turkey or other roasts, think twice. Cooked bones can splinter easily, posing a choking hazard or causing internal injuries and blockages. While raw bones can sometimes be given with care, cooked bones are a festive no-no.
The Naughty List Rundown : Splinters can cause tears in the digestive tract, blockages, and extreme discomfort. It’s a gift you’ll want to avoid giving.
What Can You Give Instead?
Christmas doesn’t have to be miserable for your dog. Here are a few dog-safe festive treats:
- Turkey meat (plain, skinless, and boneless): A small amount is a tasty protein treat.
- Carrot sticks or cooked sweet potato (plain, no seasoning): A healthy and satisfying snack.
- Homemade doggy biscuits: You can even bake them in festive shapes for the occasion!
Keep your furry friend in mind when you’re indulging this holiday season. A happy dog is a healthy dog – and no one wants a side of vet visits with their Christmas cheer. Keep those tails wagging, and have a woof-tastic holiday!
Summary
Christmas Pudding & Mince Pies: These treats contain raisins, sultanas, and currants, which can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, a toxic substance for dogs that can cause vomiting, seizures, and even death.
Stuffing & Gravy: These often contain garlic and onions, which can harm dogs’ red blood cells, potentially leading to anaemia
Cooked Bones: Cooked bones from roasts can splinter and cause choking, blockages, or internal injuries.
Conclusion: Keep your dog’s health in mind this festive season by avoiding dangerous foods and sticking to safe, dog-friendly treats to ensure a happy and healthy Christmas.
What should I do if my dog accidentally eats something harmful?
If your dog eats something harmful, such as chocolate, grapes, or cooked bones, contact your vet immediately. Early intervention is key, and your vet will guide you on the best course of action based on what your dog has ingested.
Is chocolate safe for dogs?
No, chocolate is not safe for dogs. It contains theobromine, a substance that dogs cannot metabolize effectively. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and in severe cases, death.
About the author
A Gossling
Amy Gossling, Brand Engagement Manager, Years (Dog Mum to TWO Newfypoos)
Amy Gossling is the Brand Engagement Manager at Years, where she brings her passion for pets and expertise in digital engagement to connect dog lovers with healthy, fresh food solutions. At home, she’s a devoted dog mum to two playful Newfypoos, Noodle and Bingo, who keep her busy and entertained. When she’s not crafting campaigns, you’ll find Amy exploring the outdoors with her pups or enjoying a well earnt nap!
