How do you keep your dog safe at Christmas?

Christmas is a time filled with joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations, but it can also bring unexpected risks for our furry friends. With all the excitement of the holiday season—glittering lights, tempting foods, and the hustle and bustle of guests—it’s easy to overlook the dangers that could put your dog at risk. Luckily, with a few precautions, you can keep your pup safe and ensure they enjoy the festivities as much as you do!

In this blog, we’ll share tips on how to keep your dog safe and happy during Christmas, so you can enjoy a worry-free holiday with your canine companion.

1. Mind the Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree is often the center piece of holiday décor, but it can also be a source of trouble for curious dogs. Whether it’s the shiny ornaments or the scent of a real tree, dogs are naturally drawn to explore. Here are some things to watch out for:

Secure the tree: Make sure your Christmas tree is stable and won’t tip over if your dog bumps into it. You can anchor the tree to the wall or place it in a heavy, sturdy stand to prevent accidents.
Watch out for tinsel and ornaments: Tinsel may look like a fun toy to your dog, but it’s dangerous if ingested, potentially causing blockages in the digestive system. The same goes for small ornaments, which could be choking hazards. Keep fragile or small decorations higher up on the tree, out of your dog’s reach.
Avoid edible decorations: If you like to decorate with candy canes, popcorn strings, or chocolate ornaments, remember that these can be irresistible to dogs but are harmful if eaten. Opt for non-edible decorations to keep your dog safe.

2. Keep Holiday Foods Out of Reach

Christmas feasts are a huge part of the holiday celebration, but many festive foods can be toxic or harmful to dogs. Some common holiday foods to keep away from your pup include:

Chocolate: Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxins for dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, or worse. Be mindful of where you store chocolate treats, and keep them well out of your dog’s reach.
Fatty or rich foods: Foods like turkey skin, gravy, and buttery dishes may upset your dog’s stomach or even lead to pancreatitis. Stick to your dog’s regular food and avoid giving them table scraps, no matter how much they beg!
Grapes, raisins, and alcohol: These are dangerous to dogs and can lead to serious health issues like kidney failure (grapes and raisins) or alcohol poisoning. Make sure guests know not to share these with your dog and clean up any spills promptly.

If you want to include your dog in the holiday food fun, consider giving them safe, dog-friendly treats or preparing a special meal made just for them!

3. Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

With all the commotion during the holidays, your dog might feel overwhelmed by the noise, new faces, and bustling activity. It’s important to give them a quiet space where they can retreat if things get too overwhelming.

Set up a cozy spot: Create a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your dog can relax away from the action. This could be a separate room or their crate, filled with their favourite toys and blankets.
Provide familiar comforts: Make sure your dog has access to their usual bed, toys, and water. Familiar scents and objects can help them feel calm and secure, even when things are busy.
Supervise interactions with guests: If you’re hosting a Christmas gathering, supervise your dog’s interactions with guests, especially children, who might not know how to handle dogs gently. Let your guests know how to approach your dog and respect their boundaries.

4. Be Cautious with Holiday Plants

Holiday plants can brighten up your home, but some common Christmas greenery is toxic to dogs. Be cautious with the following plants:

Poinsettias: While poinsettias are not as dangerous as some might think, they can still cause mild stomach upset or irritation if your dog decides to nibble on the leaves.
Holly and mistletoe: These holiday favourites are more toxic to dogs. Ingesting holly or mistletoe can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or even more serious issues like low blood pressure or seizures.
Christmas trees (real and artificial): While trees themselves aren’t highly toxic, drinking the water from the tree stand can be harmful, especially if it contains preservatives, fertilizers, or bacteria. Cover the water source to prevent your dog from sneaking a drink.

Consider using pet-safe plants like Christmas cacti or silk flowers for a worry-free way to decorate your home.

5. Watch the Cords and Lights

Twinkling Christmas lights can make your home feel magical, but they also present hazards for curious pups. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Keep cords out of reach: Electrical cords from lights or other decorations can be tempting for dogs to chew on, which could lead to burns, shocks, or worse. Use cord protectors or hide them out of reach to prevent accidents.
Avoid dangling lights: Lights that hang low on the tree or dangle from mantles could be mistaken for toys by your dog. Try to keep lights higher up or out of reach to avoid any mishaps.

6. Monitor Holiday Candles and Scents

Candles add a cozy touch to Christmas, but open flames can be dangerous around dogs. If you’re lighting candles, make sure they’re placed in a spot where your dog can’t knock them over. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles for a safer option that still gives off a festive glow.

Also, be mindful of scented candles, air fresheners, or potpourri, as some fragrances can be irritating to your dog’s sensitive nose or even toxic if ingested.

7. Be Mindful of Gift Wrapping and Toys

The excitement of opening presents is a big part of Christmas, but it can be hazardous for dogs if they get into the wrapping materials or small toys.

Watch the wrapping paper: Dogs may be tempted to chew on or swallow pieces of wrapping paper, ribbons, or bows, which could cause intestinal blockages. Clean up quickly after unwrapping presents to prevent accidents.
Check toys for safety: If your dog gets a new toy for Christmas, make sure it’s made of safe, durable materials that won’t break apart easily. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed or pose a choking hazard.

Final Thoughts: A Merry and Safe Christmas for All

With just a little bit of planning, you can keep your dog safe and sound throughout the Christmas season. By being mindful of potential hazards, creating a calm space, and ensuring your dog feels included in the fun, you’ll be able to enjoy a wonderful holiday together.