Christmas Dangers for Dogs: How to Keep Your Dog Safe Over the Holidays

Christmas is an exciting time for families, but it can also be filled with hidden dangers for dogs. With new decorations, rich foods and busy routines, dogs can easily get into trouble without meaning to. Understanding the risks helps keep your dog safe, healthy and relaxed throughout the festive season.

Common Christmas Hazards for Dogs

Many decorations and holiday items that seem harmless to us can pose dangers to curious dogs. Tinsel, ribbons and wrapping paper can cause blockages if swallowed. Glass baubles may shatter and cut paws. Even Christmas trees can be risky if your dog tries to chew branches or drink the tree water, which can contain preservatives.

Festive plants like poinsettias, holly and mistletoe can cause stomach upset or worse if eaten. Snow globes and some ornaments may contain chemicals that are dangerous to pets. It’s also important to keep candles and fairy lights out of reach, as dogs can easily knock them over or get tangled.

Dangerous Christmas Foods

Christmas food is one of the biggest risks, as dogs love the smell of roast dinners and sweet treats. Chocolate is highly toxic and should never be given to your dog. Grapes, raisins and foods containing them, such as mince pies or Christmas pudding, can cause serious illness. Stuffing often contains onions or garlic, which are harmful, and fatty foods like pigs in blankets or gravy can lead to stomach issues or pancreatitis.

Desserts and sweets must also be kept away from dogs. The safest approach is to keep all festive food out of reach and offer dog-friendly treats instead.

Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe During Christmas

A few simple steps can make the holidays safer for your dog. Place your decorations higher up and avoid fragile ornaments within reach. Keep presents in a safe area until it’s time to open them. Secure your tree so it cannot be knocked over.

During Christmas meals, ask guests not to feed the dog and keep rubbish bags out of reach. Give your dog a chew or enrichment toy so they stay occupied and calm. Routine is also important, try to keep walk times similar so your dog doesn’t become overexcited or unsettled by the festive chaos.

Our Christmas Care Approach

At How I Met Your Dog, we make sure every dog in our care enjoys a safe, relaxed and happy Christmas season. With secure, cage-free transport, group walks and enrichment activities, dogs stay calm and stimulated throughout the day. Our experienced team understands how busy this time of year can be, so we help support your dog’s wellbeing while you enjoy the festivities.

Whether your dog joins us for a few hours or a full day, they receive plenty of exercise, socialisation and rest, all overseen by trained professionals who prioritise safety and comfort. A little planning goes a long way, and with the right care, your dog can enjoy the holidays just as much as you do.