Safe (and Unsafe) Holiday Foods to Feed Your Dog

The holiday season is all about family, friends, and, of course, food! And with all of the yummy smells filling the house, it’s no surprise that dogs would want to join in on the festivities too. While it can be tempting to sneak them a bite, it’s important to remember that not every holiday treat is safe for your furry friend.

Knowing which foods dogs can and can’t enjoy makes all the difference between a joyful celebration and an unexpected trip to the vet. In this guide, we’ll cover a variety of common holiday foods, highlighting the ones that are safe to share and the ones that are best left off your pup’s plate.

Why the Holidays Can Be Risky for Dogs

The holidays are full of excitement, but amidst all the hustle and bustle, delicious new foods, and constant activity, it’s easy to take your eye off your pup. With so much going on, dogs can quickly find their way into things that might get them sick.

Here are a few reasons to keep a closer eye on your pup during the season:

• Change in routine – The holidays often bring more visitors, different schedules, and new environments. These changes can make dogs curious or anxious, leading them to explore counters, trash bins, or plates left unattended.
• Rich and unsafe foods – Many festive dishes are higher in fat than what dogs can safely handle. These foods can easily upset your dog’s stomach or lead to digestive issues if eaten in large amounts.
• Extra treats and overindulgence – With so many snacks and leftovers around, dogs often get more treats than usual. However, treats should only make up about 10% of a dog’s daily diet.
• Guests and unattended food – Visitors may not realize which foods are unsafe for pets and might slip your dog table scraps or leave food within reach when even small amounts of certain foods can be dangerous.

By being mindful of these holiday hazards, you can keep your dog safe while still letting them enjoy the festive fun by your side.

Safe Holiday Foods to Share with Your Dog

Lean Cooked Meats

Plain, lean meats are a great way to include your dog in the holiday feast without upsetting their stomach. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked and unseasoned before serving. Safe meat options include:

• Turkey breast – A lean source of protein that’s best served plain and skinless
• Chicken breast – An easy-to-digest option that provides all nine essential amino acids
• Lean beef – A good source of protein and essential nutrients

Plain Vegetables and Fruit

Many vegetables and fruits make healthy, low-calorie treats for dogs during the holidays. The key is to serve them plain without any added butter, salt, sugar, or spices. Safe fruit and vegetable options include:

• Green beans – A crunchy, fiber-rich vegetable that can be served raw, steamed, or cooked without seasoning
• Carrots – A naturally sweet vegetable that provides a good source of vitamins when served raw or cooked
• Apples – A vitamin-rich fruit that can be served in slices with the core and seeds removed
• Sweet potatoes – A nutrient-dense vegetable that offers a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals
• White potatoes – A starchy vegetable that can be safe when cooked and served plain
• Cranberries and blueberries – Both antioxidant-rich fruits that can be served fresh
• Pumpkin – A fiber-rich vegetable that supports digestion and should be served cooked or as plain pumpkin puree

Make Your Own Sweet Treat!

If you want your pup to enjoy a special holiday snack of their own, try getting creative and making a simple pet-safe sweet treat at home. Many dogs love homemade goodies with ingredients such as plain pumpkin, apples, oats, peanut butter, and more, foods that are both tasty and gentle on their stomachs.

Here are some homemade holiday-inspired dog treat recipes you can try:

• Pumpkin dog treats
• Frozen peanut butter bites
• Carrot and apple treats
• Dog donuts

Homemade treats also make a great activity to share with kids or guests, giving everyone a fun way to include your pup in the festivities.

Unsafe Holiday Foods and Ingredients for Dogs

While it’s fun to include your dog in the holiday feast, it’s just as important to know which foods to avoid. Explore some of the most common holiday foods and ingredients to keep off your pup’s plate.

Toxic Foods and Ingredients

Holiday Eating Habits That Can Cause Trouble

Even if you’re careful about what your dog eats, certain holiday habits can still cause problems. Sneaking too many table scraps, overeating rich leftovers, or rummaging through the trash can all lead to bloating, vomiting, or an upset stomach. It’s also easy for guests to accidentally slip your dog a treat without realizing its unsafe.

To help prevent mishaps, follow these steps:

• Clean up leftovers right away
• Keep trash and serving platters out of reach
• Remind visitors to not feed your dog
• Store desserts on high counters or in closed containers
• Stick to your dog’s regular feeding schedule
• Watch for dropped food during meals or cooking
• Give your dog a toy to distract them during dinner time

A few mindful habits can go a long way in keeping your dog healthy and happy throughout the holidays.

Consider Boarding and Day Care at Pet Palace This Holiday Season

Between family gatherings, cooking, and parties, the holidays can turn into a whirlwind fast. To keep your pup safe and out of temptation’s way, consider booking a stay at Pet Palace this season!

Our dog boarding and doggy day care services provide pets a comfortable place to relax, play, and get the attention they deserve while you focus on celebrating the season. Whether you’re traveling or hosting events at home, our team will make sure your dog is happy and cared for, and kept safely away from all those tempting holiday treats.

Contact Us Today

If you have any questions about our boarding or day care services, we would be happy to assist. Please get in touch with a team member today to learn more or reserve your pup’s spot. We look forward to hosting your dog this holiday season!

Categories: All Posts, Dogs