Between Christmas cookies, roast dinners, and endless leftovers, it’s no wonder dogs spend December with big hopeful eyes and wagging tails. But while sharing is part of the holiday spirit, many festive foods can quietly spell trouble for our four-legged friends.

This month, let’s unwrap the truth about holiday treats and how to keep your dog safe, healthy, and still feeling part of the celebration.

🍗 Common Holiday Foods That Can Harm Dogs

1. Chocolate
Even a small amount of chocolate — especially dark or baking chocolate — can cause vomiting, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures. It contains theobromine, which dogs can’t metabolize like humans can.

2. Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Found in gravies, stuffing, and sauces, these ingredients can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even powdered forms are risky.

3. Cooked Bones
Turkey and ham bones become brittle once cooked and can splinter easily. Those sharp pieces can cause choking, intestinal blockages, or tears.

4. Grapes and Raisins
These can trigger sudden kidney failure in some dogs, even in small quantities. Many fruitcakes, cookies, and trail mixes contain them — best to skip altogether.

5. Artificial Sweeteners (especially Xylitol)
Used in sugar-free desserts and gum, xylitol can send a dog’s blood sugar plummeting dangerously low. Always check ingredient labels before sharing even “healthy” snacks.

6. Fatty or Rich Foods
Greasy meats, butter-heavy sides, and drippings can cause pancreatitis — an extremely painful and sometimes life-threatening condition.

🐾 Safe Alternatives for Your Pup

Instead of table scraps, share a little joy with foods that are both festive and safe:

· Small pieces of cooked lean meat (like plain turkey breast or lamb)

· Fresh veggies such as carrots, green beans, or pumpkin

· Plain rice or oats for sensitive tummies

If you want to give your dog something special, make a “holiday treat plate” just for them. They’ll still feel included — without the bellyache later.

Trainer Tip: Always look for short ingredient lists — the fewer the better. Avoid treats with added dyes, salt, or sweeteners.

🛍️ Product Spotlight: Healthy Holiday Rewards

🏡 Holiday Safety Habits to Remember

· Keep food and drinks out of reach (especially counters and coffee tables).

· Secure trash bins — dogs are natural scavengers, and leftovers are tempting.

· Inform guests not to sneak “just a little” treat under the table.
· Have your vet’s contact information handy, just in case.

❤️ The Takeaway

Your dog doesn’t need to miss out on the fun — just the risky foods. With a little planning, they can enjoy a safe, tail-wagging holiday filled with love, comfort, and the occasional approved treat.

A happy pup is the best gift you’ll get this season — and that’s one you can enjoy long after the decorations come down.