The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations. However, many common holiday items can be dangerous or even deadly to dogs. As a responsible parent, knowing about holiday dangers for dogs helps keep your four-legged family member safe during the celebration season.
Dangerous Holiday Foods
Many holiday treats that people enjoy can cause serious health problems for dogs. Chocolate tops the dangerous list – it contains substances called theobromine and caffeine that dogs cannot process properly. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially toxic, but all types pose risks. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or worse.
Grapes and raisins found in holiday baking can cause sudden kidney failure, even in tiny amounts. Xylitol, a sugar substitute in many sugar-free candies and gums, can cause dangerously low blood sugar and liver damage within hours.
Other foods to keep away from dogs include onions and garlic (which damage red blood cells), fatty foods like turkey skin and gravy (which can cause painful pancreatitis), cooked bones (choking hazards), and alcoholic beverages (which can be deadly to dogs).
Risky Decorations and Plants
Beautiful holiday decorations can create hidden dangers. Tinsel and garland might look like fun toys, but they can cause serious intestinal blockages if eaten. Tree ornaments, especially glass ones, can break and injure your dog’s mouth or digestive system.
Christmas tree water often contains bacteria or preservatives that make dogs sick. Pine needles can irritate the mouth and stomach, while electrical cords from holiday lights pose shock and burn risks if chewed.
Many festive plants are toxic too. Poinsettias cause mouth irritation and stomach upset. Mistletoe can affect the heart and blood pressure. Holly irritates the digestive system, and its sharp leaves can cut your dog’s mouth. Lilies are extremely dangerous and can cause kidney failure.
Other Holiday Hazards
Candles create fire risks if knocked over by excited dogs. Snow globes contain a chemical called ethylene glycol that is highly poisonous. Some contain enough to kill a dog if the globe breaks and they drink the liquid.
Batteries from toys and decorations can cause chemical burns if chewed. Even gift wrap ribbons can cause choking or intestinal problems if swallowed.
Keeping Your Dog Safe
Store all holiday foods in secure containers and remind guests not to share table food. Keep decorations out of reach, especially small or breakable items. Create a quiet space where your dog can retreat if holiday activities become overwhelming.
If you suspect your dog has eaten something dangerous, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the ASPCA Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline.
Knowing about holiday dangers for dogs can enable quick actions that can save your furry companion’s life. With some planning and awareness, you and your canine companion can enjoy a safe, happy holiday season together.
