Christmas is full of temptations for both humans and dogs. However, while your four-legged friend may love the smell of turkey and mince pies, many festive foods could make them seriously ill.
Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, is warning owners to stay alert this season to avoid a dash to the emergency vet.
To help you keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy this festive season, follow Dogs Trust Newbury’s eight top tips:
1. Avoid toxic treats: Grapes, raisins, and sultanas, commonly found in mince pies and Christmas pudding, can cause kidney failure in dogs. Chocolate, onions, garlic, leeks, macadamia nuts, avocado, and sugar-free products containing xylitol are also highly toxic, even in small amounts. Recent claims data from Petplan reveals a 49% rise in claims for grape and raisin poisoning compared to chocolate poisoning so far in 2025, suggesting that many people may still be unaware of how dangerous these festive foods can be1.
2. Keep alcohol out of paws’ reach – it might sound obvious, but alcohol is poisonous to dogs. Spilt wine, beer, or creamy liqueurs can quickly cause vomiting, disorientation, or worse. Always keep festive drinks well away from curious noses.
3. Don’t dish up a doggy Christmas dinner – However tempting it is to let your dog join the feast, rich and fatty foods like pigs in blankets, roast trimmings, or gravy can upset their stomach, or even cause a bout of pancreatitis. Stick to their regular meals to avoid an emergency vet trip.
4. Cooked bones caution – Leftover turkey legs or chicken bones can splinter easily, causing choking or internal injuries. Make sure everyone in the family knows not to pass scraps to the dog under the dinner table.
5. Keep a regular routine – The festive season can be overwhelming, so keeping your dog’s usual feeding times helps them feel calm and secure. Routine is key to avoiding stress and tummy upsets amid the Christmas chaos.
6. Treats in moderation – If you want to spoil your dog, choose small, bite-sized treats and spread them out over a few days. Remember to reduce their normal food portions slightly to keep their diet balanced.
7. Store hazards safely – Keep chocolates, puddings, nuts and other tempting treats in cupboards or on high shelves. Don’t forget chocolate tree decorations and mince pies left out for Father Christmas!
8. Be prepared in case of an emergency – Many vets have limited hours over the holidays, so make sure you know the contact details of your local emergency vet.
Charlie Dobson, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust said: “We all want our dogs to feel part of the Christmas celebrations, but the best gift you can give them this Christmas is keeping them safe in their happy place.
“It only takes a few simple steps to protect them from festive food hazards, and in doing so, you’ll ensure they spend the holidays exactly where they belong, right by your side, as you make those special memories together.”
For more festive tips and recipes, visit dogstrust.org.uk/christmasadvice.
