Christmas Treats to Avoid: A Vet’s Guide to Happy, Healthy Dogs

‘Tis the season to be jolly – but it’s important to be aware that some of our favourite human treats can wreak havoc on our pups! Being aware of the hidden dangers will ensure we all have a very merry Christmas lounging on the sofa, without any emergency vet visits. Our head Omni vet Sophie has put together some top tips to help you keep your canine companions safe this festive season:

Food Hazards 

Many of our favourite festive foods can pose real risks for our pups:

• Onions & Garlic: These cooking classics can be real bah humbug for dogs, upsetting stomachs and damaging red blood cells, which can lead to anaemia.
  
  

• Chocolate: A Christmas favourite for us, but not for pups. Theobromine is highly toxic and can cause tummy trouble, panting, pancreatitis, and even neurological signs.
  
  

• Raisins & Grapes (think mince pies and puds): Even tiny amounts can cause kidney failure – definitely not worth the risk.
  
  

• Alcohol: Absolutely never safe. Even small sips can lead to serious illness or be life-threatening for our pooches.
  
  

• Fatty Foods: Too many indulgent treats can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and potentially fatal pancreatitis  – not the kind of Boxing Day surprise you want.
  
  

• Raw Dough: Can expand inside your dog’s stomach and cause serious digestive problems and even dangerous blockages.
  
  

• Salty Snacks: High-salt foods (like salt cookies) can disrupt sodium levels and cause poisoning.
  
  

• Bones: They may seem like the perfect doggy “gift,” but they can splinter, cause choking, create obstructions, and damage teeth or the digestive tract.

Bottom line: Keep festive treats out of reach, and clear up your plates after meals faster than Santa up a chimney.

Dangerous Presents and Decorations

Some Christmas cheer comes with not-so-cheery risks for curious pups:

• Small toys and parts: Easy to swallow, easy to choke on, and a fast track to a blockage.
  
  

• Batteries: If chewed, they can cause serious chemical burns.
  
  

• Tinsel and Tree Decorations: Sparkly but sneaky; if eaten, they can cause stomach obstructions.
  
  

• Fairy Lights and Wires: Chewing them can lead to electrical shocks or choking hazards.

So Remember: Keep gifts stashed away safely and always supervise your dog around the tree.

Emergency Advice

If your dog nibbles, chews, or swallows something they shouldn’t, call your vet straight away for guidance and any potential treatment.

By staying aware of these festive hazards, you can help your dog enjoy the holidays safely, happily, and with maximum wagging tails. If you’re unsure about anything or want personalised advice, chat with your vet or book an appointment with our vet team anytime.

1. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/christmas-dangers-for-dogs

2. https://www.reddit.com/r/coolguides/comments/1b3kr80/a_cool_guide_for_what_not_to_feed_your_dog/

3. https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/information-and-advice/dog-care-and-welfare/dog-safe-christmas/

4. https://aniedireland.com/2019/12/02/christmas-bites/

5. https://www.humaneworld.org/en/resources/holiday-safety-tips-pets

6. https://warrenhousevets.com/pets-christmas-dangers/

7. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/how-to-have-a-pet-safe-christmas

8. https://snafflepaws.com/blogs/dog-advice/a-dog-owners-guide-to-a-safe-christmas-understanding-and-mitigating-festive-hazards

9. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/holiday-safety-tips

10. https://wooffrills.com/blogs/news/7-tips-to-keep-dogs-safe-this-christmas