Common Christmas Foods Dogs Can Eat

The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and lots of delicious foods, but not all of them are safe for our four-legged family members. As pet owners, it’s important to know which Christmas foods dogs can eat to ensure they enjoy the festivities safely alongside us. This blog from Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield in Raleigh, NC, will guide you through the do’s and don’ts of sharing your holiday feast with your dog. If you have any questions or need more information, our team is here to help. Feel free to call us at (919) 488-5300 to make an appointment or get advice tailored to your pet’s needs.

Safe Christmas Treats for Dogs

During the holidays, it’s tempting to share our meals with our dogs, but it’s crucial to stick to foods that are safe for them. Here’s a list of dog-friendly Christmas foods:

Turkey Meat (Without Skin and Bones)

Turkey is a great source of protein for dogs, but make sure it’s plain, without any garlic, onions, or seasonings, which are harmful to dogs. Always remove the skin and bones before offering it to your pet to prevent choking hazards and digestive issues.

Carrots

Raw or cooked carrots are a healthy snack for dogs. They are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. Chewing on raw carrots can also help keep your dog’s teeth clean.

Green Beans

Plain green beans are a nutritious treat for dogs. They’re full of important vitamins and minerals and are also low in calories. Just make sure they’re served plain, without any added oils, butter, or spices.

Apples (Without Seeds)

Apples are a sweet treat for dogs, but remember to remove the seeds and core first. Apples are high in fiber and vitamins A and C, making them a healthy snack in moderation.

Pumpkin

Plain, cooked pumpkin (not the pie filling) is safe for dogs to eat and is often recommended by vets for its fiber content, which can help with digestion. Just a few teaspoons for smaller dogs or a couple of tablespoons for larger dogs can make a difference.

Sweet Potatoes

Cooked sweet potatoes are another safe and healthy option for dogs. They’re a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Ensure they’re served plain and cooked without any added sweeteners or spices.

Foods to Avoid

While some Christmas foods are safe for dogs, there are several you should avoid to keep your pet healthy:

• Chocolate and Caffeine: Both are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health issues.
• Grapes and Raisins: Even in small amounts, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Onions and Garlic: These can cause digestive upset and may lead to red blood cell damage.
• Xylitol: This sweetener found in many sugar-free products can lead to liver failure and hypoglycemia in dogs.
• Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous to dogs, leading to various health issues.

Tips for a Dog-Safe Holiday Feast

To ensure your dog can safely enjoy the holiday festivities with you, follow these tips:

• Keep Treats Small: Small portions are key. Even safe foods can cause stomach upset if eaten in large quantities.
• Avoid Seasonings: Many common seasonings and spices used in holiday cooking can be harmful to dogs. Stick to plain, unseasoned foods.
• Watch the Fat Content: Foods high in fat can cause pancreatitis in dogs, a serious and painful condition.
• Supervise Your Dog: Keep an eye on your dog during holiday gatherings to ensure they’re not sneaking unsafe foods.

Sharing the joy of Christmas with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to do so safely. By sticking to dog-safe Christmas foods and avoiding the dangerous ones, you can ensure your pet enjoys the holiday season without any health scares. If you’re ever unsure about what foods are safe, or if your dog accidentally eats something they shouldn’t, don’t hesitate to call Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield at (919) 488-5300 or make an appointment online. Our team is ready to provide the advice and care your dog needs to stay healthy and happy during the holidays and beyond.