Keeping Your Dog Safe During the Holidays: A Food Safety Guide

The holidays are a time for feasting and celebration, but it’s important to be mindful of what foods you share with your dog. Some human foods can be toxic or harmful to dogs, so it’s important to know what to avoid. The Dog Stop offer this food safety guide:

Here are some of the most common holiday foods that are bad for dogs:

• Chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. The amount of theobromine that is toxic varies depending on the type of chocolate and the size of the dog, but even a small amount can be harmful.
• Grapes and raisins. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even a few grapes or raisins can be deadly, so it’s important to keep them out of reach of your dog.
• Onions and garlic. Onions and garlic can cause anemia in dogs. This is because they contain compounds that damage red blood cells.
• Macadamia nuts. Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia.
• Cooked bones. Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries to dogs.
• Yeast dough. Yeast dough can rise in a dog’s stomach and cause bloating, gas, and even death.

In addition to these foods, there are other holiday foods that should be avoided because they are high in fat, sugar, or salt. These foods can cause weight gain, obesity, and other health problems in dogs.

Here are some safe holiday foods that you can share with your dog:

• Cooked turkey or chicken. Plain, cooked meat is a good source of protein for dogs.
• Sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber and vitamins.
• Carrots. Carrots are a good source of vitamins and minerals.
• Green beans. Green beans are a good source of fiber and vitamins.
• Cranberries. Cranberries are a good source of antioxidants.
• Apples. Apples are a good source of vitamins and fiber.
• Bananas. Bananas are a good source of potassium.

It’s important to give your dog only small amounts of these foods, and to avoid giving them any foods that have been cooked with spices or sauces. If you are unsure about whether a food is safe for your dog, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them.

Here are some tips for keeping your dog safe during the holidays:

• Keep all food out of reach of your dog.
• Don’t let your dog eat from the table.
• Supervise your dog when they are around food.
• Pick up any dropped food immediately.
• Be aware of the ingredients in any treats or snacks you give your dog.

By following these tips, you can help keep your dog safe and healthy during the holidays.