The Christmas season is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means lots of delicious food, festive gatherings, and fun family time. But amidst all the fun, it’s important to keep our dogs in mind—especially when it comes to what they eat. Christmas treats might be irresistible to your dog, but not all of them are safe! Here’s a guide to keeping your dog’s diet safe and healthy during the holidays.
Beware of Toxic Treats
Many common festive foods are dangerous for dogs. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Chocolate: It may be a favourite for humans, but chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.
- Grapes and Raisins: Found in many Christmas desserts, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
- Onions, Garlic, and Leeks: These ingredients are common in stuffing and other dishes, but they can damage a dog’s red blood cells and cause anaemia.
- Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, found in sugar-free gum, lollies, and some baked goods, is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar.
The Danger of Fatty Foods
Christmas meals are often rich and high in fat, from turkey with gravy to buttery mashed potatoes. While a little lean turkey meat (without skin or bones) can be a treat for your dog, fatty foods can cause pancreatitis—an inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to serious digestive issues. Avoid sharing rich foods like:
- Turkey skin and bones
- Gravy and buttery dishes
- Cheese platters
- Leftover drippings
Safe Treat Alternatives for Dogs
Just because your dog shouldn’t partake in the Christmas feast doesn’t mean they have to miss out entirely! Here are some safe and festive treats you can share:
- Plain, Cooked Turkey Meat: A small amount of plain, skinless turkey is a great treat.
- Carrots and Green Beans: Crunchy and low in calories, these veggies are a healthy alternative.
- Homemade Dog Treats: Consider baking dog-friendly treats with ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter (xylitol-free), and oats. Your pup will love being included in the holiday baking!
Use your enrichment toys to make these treats even more fun for your dog!
Alcohol and Caffeine Are a No-Go
It’s no surprise that alcohol isn’t safe for dogs, but even a small amount can be dangerous, leading to issues like decreased coordination, vomiting, and more serious conditions like seizures. Keep alcoholic beverages and desserts like rum cake out of reach.
Caffeine is another substance to watch out for, found in coffee, tea, and certain holiday beverages. It can lead to restlessness, rapid breathing, and in severe cases, heart arrhythmias.
Keep a close eye on wrapping paper and decorations, Christmas safety doesn’t stop with food! Wrapping paper, ribbons, and certain holiday decorations can pose a choking hazard or cause blockages if ingested by your dog. After unwrapping presents, make sure to clean up any stray materials to keep your curious pup safe.
What to Do in Case of Emergency
Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. If you think your dog has ingested something toxic, don’t wait—contact your vet immediately. Quick action can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and happy holiday for your dog.
Spread the Christmas Cheer, Safely!
Christmas is a time for love, joy, and togetherness, and our dogs are an important part of the family. By being mindful of what foods we share and keeping harmful treats out of reach, we can ensure that everyone—furry friends included—has a safe and merry Christmas!
Happy holidays from The Enriched Pup Box! Remember, a little planning and awareness can go a long way in keeping your dog healthy this season.