What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something They Shouldn’t Over Christmas
Christmas is a magical time filled with festive treats, decorations, and family gatherings. All of this is lovely for us but can hide some hidden dangers for our dogs. With an abundance of food and unfamiliar objects around, it’s not uncommon for dogs to sneak a bite of something they shouldn’t.
If your dog eats something potentially harmful, it’s important to act quickly and calmly. In this post, we’ll guide you through what to do if your dog eats toxic foods like chocolate, mince pies, or other festive hazards.
Common Christmas Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs
Many delicious holiday treats can be dangerous for your dog. Here’s a list of common foods to watch out for:
Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs, especially dark chocolate.
Raisins, Sultanas, and Grapes – Found in mince pies, Christmas pudding, and fruitcake, these can cause kidney failure.
Onions and Garlic – Common in stuffing and gravy, they can damage your dog’s red blood cells.
Alcohol – Even small amounts can lead to poisoning.
Nuts – Especially macadamia nuts, which are highly toxic.
Cooked Bones – They can splinter and cause internal injuries.
Xylitol – Found in sugar-free treats, gum, and some peanut butters, it can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something They Shouldn’t
If you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, follow these steps:
1. Stay Calm
Panicking can make it harder to think clearly. Take a deep breath and focus on what to do next.
2. Remove the Hazard
If your dog is still eating the item, gently remove it from their reach to prevent further ingestion.
3. Check for Symptoms
Depending on what your dog has eaten, symptoms may vary. Keep an eye out for:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Tremors or seizures
Excessive drooling
Difficulty breathing
4. Call Your Vet Immediately
Even if your dog seems fine, it’s important to contact your vet as soon as possible. Let them know:
What your dog ate
How much they ate
When they ate it
Your vet will advise you on the next steps, which may include bringing your dog in for treatment.
5. Call an Emergency Pet Poison Helpline (if needed)
If you can’t reach your vet, a pet poison helpline can provide immediate advice. Keep these numbers handy during the holidays:
Animal PoisonLine (UK): 01202 509000
Pet Poison Helpline (US): 1-855-764-7661
6. Follow Your Vet’s Instructions
Your vet may suggest inducing vomiting, but do not attempt this without professional guidance. Some substances can cause more harm if vomited.
Preventing Holiday Hazards
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your dog safe over the festive season:
Keep Food Out of Reach – Store food securely, especially during parties when distractions are high.
Educate Guests – Let visitors know not to feed your dog any human food.
Use Dog-Safe Decorations – Avoid edible decorations like popcorn garlands or chocolate ornaments.
Provide Safe Treats – Keep dog-friendly treats on hand so your pup doesn’t feel left out.
Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, but it’s important to stay mindful of your dog’s safety. By being aware of common hazards and knowing how to act if something goes wrong, you can enjoy a festive, worry-free holiday with your dog.
