12 dangers of Christmas for your dog 

Keep your dog safe this Christmas. Discover the potential Christmas dangers and risks that come with the holiday season.

Christmas, a time for joy and festive fun and indulging. Christmas brings a lot of different things to us, as reflected in the 12 days of Christmas song. It is importantly, a time to be mindful of Christmas dangers to our dogs. A lot of the festive and seasonal fun we take for granted, can all bring additional dangers for your dog. 

Taking time to consider the risks in your home can avoid problems arising. This can save you money and potential heart ache during what should be a fun and enjoyable time.  

Chocolate

Many of us can’t imagine Christmas without chocolate. It's so common over the festive season that it is worth mentioning again: chocolate is toxic to your dog. Therefore, look around your home and consider all the places you might have chocolate. These could be plentiful. It is one of the most commonly encountered Christmas dangers for dogs. For example chocolate is found in advent calendars, selection boxes, chocolate tins, tree decorations, and gifts. The list of chocolates at Christmas can be endless.

Wrapping/Packaging

Curious dogs will investigate presents that smell enticing and rip into wrapping. Packages are generally covered in bright shiny paper with bows and ribbons, these can present a risk if ingested. Be careful when unwrapping gifts, clean up straight away any discarded strings, ribbons, bows or wrapping. Similarly, never leave your dog unattended with gifts. If eaten, ribbons and packaging can cause intestinal blockages or damage.

Grapes, Raisins, Sultanas, and Currants

It wouldn’t be Christmas for many of us without a mince pie, piece of Christmas cake or a Christmas pudding. Of course, these are all full of dried fruits like raisins which are Christmas dangers for your dog. Eating these ingredients can cause kidney damage and failure. Be especially vigilant over the Christmas period. Especially as these dried fruits and grapes can lurk in breads, chocolates, biscuits, stuffings and sauces. Some cakes also contain nuts and some of these are also dangerous to your dog. Make sure leftovers are secured. Also remember mince pies left out for Santa as they are a commonly ingested item.  

Onion

Chives, leeks, garlic, and onions are all a Christmas danger to your dog. They are found in more foods and recipes than we realise. Although we find these tasty, to your dog, even a small amount can risk serious blood problems. Check ingredients lists and recipes of anything that the dog may eat. 

Bones

Many of us will be tucking into a festive roast and turkey is often on the menu. After the meal it is important to clear away any leftovers. In particular the bones and carcass as they are a risk and they will smell tempting to your dog. Bones can be sharp and cause vomiting and serious internal damage to your dog. This happens because they are able to obstruct and damage the digestive tract. Keep all carcasses wrapped tightly in a pet proof bin. This will prevent accidents. Also, remember to never leave leftovers within sight or reach of your dog. 

Sweets and treats

Some sweets and sugar free deserts and treats contain an artificial sweetener called Xylitol. This is found in a lot of sugar free options. It’s important to check for Xylitol as this sweetener is toxic to dogs. As a result of ingestion it causes lowered blood sugar levels and liver damage that can quickly prove fatal.  

Christmas trees and decorations

We all love a full and festive tree and house decorated for the season. However, take some time to check potential hazards for your dog. The shiny bright baubles can shatter and cause injury if your dog knocks them off the tree. Furthermore, lights and cables can be a risk of entanglement if the dog can explore under the tree. Tinsel and ribbon can be dangerous if eaten or swallowed while being played with. It can cause life threatening intestinal blockages and damage. The tree itself is often something new to explore. Protect it from dogs that jump up. Also, make sure it has a sturdy solid base to limit the risk of tipping. Pine needles need to be cleared up as they can hurt sensitive paws and if eaten can cause stomach upsets. Never leave your dog alone with the Christmas tree. 

Festive plant hazards

Some of our most beloved festive plants are dangerous to our dogs. Poinsettia, Holly, and Mistletoe are all toxic if eaten. They can cause a range of symptoms from gastric upsets to more serious issues like seizures and collapse. To be on the safe side, firstly, keep all these plants well out of the reach. Secondly, make sure any dropped berries or leaves are cleared away promptly.  

Grit/Rock salt

Every winter, grit and salt are widely used to de-ice our roads and pavements. High amounts of salt can be irritant to paws. If it’s licked off paws it can be toxic to your dog. It can cause stomach issues, kidney damage and vomiting. After winter walks, wipe or wash your dog’s feet and tummy. This will remove any grit or salt and never allow them to drink from puddles of melt water. 

Candles, Fires and Lanterns

We all enjoy lighting a fire or a candle on a cold festive day. However, it’s important to keep our dogs away from naked flames. We all know burns and injury can occur if they are knocked or dislodged. What is less commonly considered is that dogs are very sensitive to scents and fumes so keep rooms well ventilated. Some essential oils are toxic to dogs, so check candles carefully before using them. Fireworks can be loud and distressing to your dog. Be aware of their needs and give them somewhere quiet and safe to retreat to.

Batteries

With all the new toys and gadgets that are gifted at Christmas it's likely that many will need batteries. If batteries are chewed or swallowed, they can cause life-threatening burns, poisoning and obstructions. All batteries, no matter what size, must be kept secure and out of reach of your dog. 

Toys

Toys left lying around often prove highly entertaining for your dog. Any pieces chewed and swallowed can cause obstruction, especially if they have elastic, string or tassels.

Christmas is an enjoyable festive time for family and friends. With a few precautions it is possible for your dog to enjoy it as much as you do. Check for dangers, and be sure you know the risks your home presents to your dog. If your dog has chewed or ingested anything, please contact a veterinary surgeon immediately.