Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it brings a lot of food into the house that can be genuinely dangerous for dogs. With guests, distractions and food left out in places it normally would not be, it is worth knowing what to watch out for and how to keep your dog safe throughout the festive period.

Christmas Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs

Chocolate

Chocolate is toxic to dogs and Christmas tends to bring a lot of it into the house, in advent calendars, selection boxes, chocolate decorations on the tree and gifts left under it. Dark chocolate and cocoa are the most dangerous, but all chocolate should be kept well out of reach. Dogs are often more determined than we expect when they can smell something appealing.

Christmas pudding, mince pies and fruit cake

These contain raisins, currants and sultanas, all of which are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. Even a small amount can be dangerous for some dogs. These are particularly risky because they are often left out on plates or low tables during the festive period.

Onions, garlic and leeks

These are toxic to dogs in all forms, including cooked, raw and powdered. They are common in stuffing, gravies, sauces and many Christmas dishes. Even small amounts over time can cause damage to red blood cells. Do not be tempted to give your dog a plate of Christmas dinner leftovers unless you are certain what is in it.

Macadamia nuts

These can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors and fever in dogs. They sometimes appear in Christmas biscuits, chocolates and nut selections.

Alcohol

Even small amounts of alcohol can be harmful to dogs. Keep drinks out of reach and be mindful of glasses left on low surfaces during parties.

Xylitol

This artificial sweetener is found in some sugar-free sweets, chewing gum and certain nut butters. It is highly toxic to dogs. Check the ingredients on anything sweet that might be within reach.

Cooked Bones

Turkey and chicken bones are a particular hazard at Christmas. Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause serious internal injuries. Make sure carcasses and bones go straight into a bin that your dog cannot access. If you want to give your dog a bone as a treat, raw bones are a much safer option. Take a look at our natural chews for safe alternatives.

Rich Food and Overfeeding

Even foods that are not toxic can cause problems if your dog gets too much of something rich or unfamiliar. Fatty foods like turkey skin, pigs in blankets and gravy can trigger pancreatitis, which can be serious. Stick to your dog's usual diet over Christmas and resist the temptation to share your plate, however much they ask.

Practical Tips for the Festive Period

• Keep your dog out of the kitchen during busy cooking sessions.
• Make sure bins are secure and not accessible to your dog.
• Brief guests not to feed your dog from the table or their plates.
• Keep chocolate, mince pies and other hazardous foods well out of reach, including gifts under the tree.
• Give your dog something appropriate to enjoy while the family eats, such as a long-lasting natural chew to keep them occupied.

If Your Dog Eats Something They Should Not

Contact your vet immediately if you think your dog has eaten something toxic. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. The Animal Poison Line (01202 509000) is also available for urgent advice. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.

Keeping your dog on their usual raw diet throughout Christmas is the simplest way to avoid digestive upsets and keep them feeling their best over the festive period.