Ah, Christmas! A time for joy, laughter, and way too much food. But as you’re piling your plate high with festive goodies, have you ever wondered if your dog can join in on the culinary fun? Spoiler alert: they can—but only with the right foods. Let’s dive into a doggy-friendly guide to keeping your pooch safe, happy, and very much part of the celebrations this Christmas.

Dog-Friendly Christmas Foods

Good news: some of your festive favourites are totally paw-sible for your dog to enjoy! Here are the top picks that will have tails wagging:

• Cooked Turkey (Plain): Turkey without the trimmings is a lean protein treat your dog will love. Just make sure there’s no seasoning, gravy, or sneaky bones hiding in there.
• Carrots and Green Beans: Whether raw or lightly cooked, these crunchy veggies are healthy, low-calorie, and perfect for dogs who fancy a snack.
• Sweet Potatoes: Boiled or baked—as long as there’s no sugar or marshmallow topping involved—sweet potatoes are a fibre-packed festive delight.
• Apples: A sweet treat with a festive vibe! Just ditch the seeds and core, and maybe add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra cheer.
• Pumpkin (Plain): Forget the pie; plain cooked pumpkin is a tasty tummy-soother for your pup.

Christmas Foods to Avoid for Dogs

Not all Christmas treats are created equal. Some festive foods are downright dangerous for dogs. Here’s the naughty list:

• Chocolate: Delicious for us, toxic for them. Even a small amount can spell trouble.
• Grapes and Raisins: Found in mince pies, puddings, and fruitcakes, these are a big no-no—think kidney failure levels of bad.
• Onions and Garlic: These holiday cooking staples can cause serious health issues, so keep them well away from your dog’s plate.
• Alcohol: A sip of your festive tipple might seem funny, but it’s a recipe for disaster for dogs.
• Fatty Foods: Pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, and creamy sauces might tempt your pooch, but they’ll likely upset their stomach—or worse.
• Nutmeg: Often found in festive bakes, nutmeg contains compounds that can harm your dog.

Create Homemade Festive Treats for Your Dog

Dog-Friendly Christmas Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients:

• 300g of mashed sweet potato
• 240g of wholemeal flour
• 120g of xylitol-free peanut butter

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.
2. Mix all the ingredients into a dough.
3. Roll out the dough and cut into festive shapes.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, cool completely, and serve.

Festive Frozen Yogurt Treats Recipe

Ingredients:

• 250g of plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened and xylitol-free)
• 120g of mashed banana or pureed pumpkin

Method:

1. Combine the yogurt and pumpkin/banana.
2. Spoon into silicone molds (bonus points for festive shapes).
3. Freeze until solid and serve as a refreshing snack.

Practical Tips for a Safe and Festive Christmas

To keep your dog safe and your holidays stress-free, follow these simple tips:

• Design a Doggy Plate: Create a special plate of dog-safe foods so your pup doesn’t feel left out.
• Keep Leftovers Out of Reach: Rubbish bins are dog magnets. Secure leftovers to avoid any sneaky snacks.
• Educate Your Guests: Remind friends and family not to feed your dog without checking first. Aunt Joan’s stuffing is NOT dog-friendly.
• Mind the Decorations: Chocolate ornaments and edible garlands might look lovely but can be irresistible and harmful to your dog.
• Beware of Plants: Festive greenery like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can be toxic to pets. Keep them out of paw’s reach.

FAQ: Safe Christmas Foods for Dogs

Can dogs eat turkey at Christmas?

Yes, plain cooked turkey is safe for dogs. Avoid any seasoning, stuffing, or bones, as these can be harmful.

Is it okay to give my dog Christmas pudding?

No, Christmas pudding contains raisins, spices, and sometimes alcohol, all of which are toxic to dogs.

What vegetables can I share with my dog?

Carrots, green beans, and plain sweet potatoes are safe and nutritious options for your dog.

What should I do if my dog eats chocolate?

Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats chocolate. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, and restlessness.

Are there any festive drinks safe for dogs?

No, dogs should never be given alcohol or any sugary drinks. Stick to water as the safest option.

Recognising When to Call the Vet

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. If your dog eats something they shouldn’t, keep an eye out for:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or unusual behaviour
• Excessive drooling or breathing difficulties

Don’t wait—contact your vet immediately. Quick action can make all the difference.

How to Include Your Dog in the Festivities

Christmas isn’t just about food. There are plenty of other ways to make your dog feel like part of the celebration:

• Take festive walks
• Host a doggy gift exchange
• Snap holiday photos
• Play games like a scavenger hunt

Conclusion

Christmas is a time for family, and that includes your dog! With a bit of planning, you can create a safe, fun, and magical holiday for your furry friend. Share the love, the laughs, and maybe a dog-friendly biscuit or two. After all, a wagging tail is the best Christmas gift of all.