As a pet owner, you know there are foods your dog shouldn't eat (chocolate being the most obvious one). But there are a few other human treats that pop up this time of year that are dangerous for dogs. Even if you don't feed your dog scraps from the table, you'll want to take extra precautions to keep your holiday season safe and carefree.
Macadamia nuts and black walnuts
Macadamia nuts and black walnuts are a popular ingredient in cookies and candies and can cause toxic reactions in dogs. However, plain and unsalted nuts—such as almost, cashews, and peanuts—are okay in moderation.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Yep, mashed potatoes are off-limits. Onions, garlic, and chives are found in many holiday dishes and can cause blood cell damage and gastrointestinal distress. If you don't want your dog to feel left out of the fun, we recommend plain sweet potatoes, which are full of nutrients.
Bread dough
If you love to make fresh bread, take heed—the yeast in bread dough can cause gas and even stomach twisting. Cover dough before you walk away and keep it out of reach.
Rich Dairy
If you've ever been around a dog after they've eaten a piece of cheese, you probably know the after-effects can be a bit unpleasant. That's because many dogs are lactose-intolerant. Avoid giving your dog food whipped cream, mashed potatoes, but a little bit of plain yogurt can be okay, depending on your dog's level of tolerance.
Alcohol
You should never, ever give dog alcohol. Symptoms of alcohol ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Do give your dog plenty of fresh water, especially if they're partaking in more snacks than usual or spending lots of time playing fetch with your friends and family.
Caffeine and Chocolate
Caffeine and chocolate contain methylxanthines that cause panting, excessive thirst and urination, vomiting and diarrhea, hyperactivity, and abnormal heart rhythm. Keep in mind that the higher cocoa concentration something has, the more toxic it is.
Bones
Making a delicious turkey or chicken—or even fish? Dogs love meat scraps, but make sure any scraps you give them are free of bones. Not only can dogs choke on bones, but they can damage an abdominal tract. Make sure to scrape all the bones into your garbage or compost that a dog can't get to. But giving them a bite of meat? Totally fine, as long as it's fully cooked.
Need a Dog Sitter for the Holidays?
Are you planning a trip to Miami, Austin, or some other warm destination? Or do you live in a sunny state but are looking for a change of scenery? Use Rover.com to find and book a dog sitter who's right for you, your dog, and your budget. Rover has over 65,000 sitters nationwide, and every booking includes premium insurance, a reservation guarantee, and 24/7 access to a dedicated team of Trust & Safety experts.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
