Festive food hazards

The smells and sights of Christmas can tempt even the most well-behaved dogs. But some traditional festive can be seriously harmful and must be kept away from curious paws:

• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Christmas puddings and cakes (mince pies, stollen, panettone)
• Raisins and grapes
• Macadamia nuts
• Onions and garlic
• Cooked bones

Top tips to keep them safe:

• Never give your dog rich treats or cooked bones as they can cause serious illness or blockages.
• Keep food and wrappers out of reach.
• Remind family and visitors not to feed your dog human treats.

Deck the halls…safely!

Shiny baubles, tinsel, fairy lights, and festive plants can be irresistible to inquisitive dogs but they can also be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Always supervise your dog around presents (especially if they contain chocolate), wrapping paper, and decorations.

Popular festive plants such as mistletoe, holly, poinsettias, and pine trees should also be kept  well out of reach. For more information on seasonal plant hazards, see our Autumn & Winter Plant Safety Guide.

Keep their routine on track

The excitement of Christmas can disrupt your dog’s usual routine, which may cause stress or anxiety. Try to stick to regular feeding times, walks and bedtime.

If your home is busy with visitors, set up a safe space where your dog can relax undisturbed. Mental stimulation is also important – enrichment activities such as stuffed Kongs, lick mats, chews, can help keep your dog calm.

For dogs who are sensitive to noise, remove the ‘bangers’ from crackers. Read our Supporting your dog through fireworks blog for more advice.