When you think about Christmas foods that might upset you, you’re probably thinking about being left with all the “dodgy” leftovers in a box of Cadbury Favourites (although some of us maintain that Turkish Delight is a valid and enjoyable flavour!).

However, when we talk about Christmas foods that could upset your dog, we’re talking about festive fare which could be dangerous and even toxic to them. Here’s a list of foods to avoid giving your pet this holiday season:

Cooked bones

When cooked, bones become brittle and are more likely to splinter into sharp shards which can cause injuries to your pet’s mouth, oesophagus or gut. In the worst-case scenario, sharp bone pieces may perforate intestines, necessitating emergency surgery.

Grapes and raisins

Grapes and raisins are a tricky toxin, in that some pets appear to be able to eat them with no apparent issues, whereas other pets can develop potentially fatal kidney damage after eating just a few. We strongly recommend avoiding the risk, and never feeding your pet these foods.

Fatty foods

In some dogs, feeding highly fatty foods such as crackling, ham, or turkey skin, can trigger painful inflammation of the pancreas, referred to as pancreatitis, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, and one very miserable pet.

Chocolate, coffee beans or cocoa

Unlike us, dogs cannot tolerate the theobromine or caffeine components in these foods and can develop gut upset, heart rate abnormalities or seizures after consuming relatively small amounts.

Onions and garlic

Pets who consume significant amounts of onion or garlic (e.g. in turkey stuffing) can initially develop signs of gut upset, and then several days later, may show symptoms of anaemia (such as weakness and pale gums).

Xylitol sweetener

Xylitol sweetener can be present in some “sugar-free” gums or lollies, and can cause life-threatening liver damage and low blood sugar levels in pets.

If you have any concerns about any potential toxicities in your pet, chat with our knowledgeable team.