With the holiday season upon us, many of us are excited to share special meals with our loved ones, and that includes our furry friends. However, it's important to remember that not all festive foods are safe for dogs. Here’s a quick guide to help ensure your dog stays healthy and happy throughout the holidays:


Safe Christmas Treats for Dogs:

  • Plain turkey (no seasoning or bones) – Make sure the turkey is unseasoned, skinless, and boneless. Avoid giving your dog any skin or bones, as these can cause digestive issues or choking hazards.
  • Carrots – A great low-calorie treat that’s healthy and safe for dogs.
  • Green beans (plain) – Steamed or cooked without butter, garlic, or seasoning, green beans are a tasty, dog-friendly vegetable.
  • Sweet potatoes (plain) – Cooked and without any added sugar or spices, sweet potatoes are a nutritious treat for your dog.
  • Apples (without seeds) – A few apple slices (without the seeds) can be a crunchy and refreshing treat.

Unsafe Foods to Avoid:

  • Onions, garlic, and chives – These common holiday ingredients can be toxic to dogs and can cause digestive upset or even more serious health issues if consumed in large amounts.
  • Chocolate – Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs, and even small amounts can lead to serious health problems.
  • Xylitol (found in sugar-free products) – This sweetener is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, leading to seizures, liver failure, or death.
  • Bones – Cooked bones, especially from turkey or ham, can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause internal injury.
  • Alcohol – Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or even more serious conditions like respiratory failure or coma.
  • Nuts (especially macadamia nuts) – These nuts are highly toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, tremors, and fever.

If you want to make your dog feel special this Christmas, consider making them a dog-safe treat using ingredients like plain meat, sweet potatoes, and carrots. There are also many dog-friendly recipes online that can help you prepare a festive meal without putting your dog’s health at risk.

Shop our Simply Venison the perfect Christmas dinner for dogs