Treats and Decorations That Are Dangerous for Dogs
Christmas is a time of glamour, indulgence, and festive decorations.
However, what delights us with its sparkle and scent can pose serious risks to dogs.
From Advent wreaths and Christmas trees to tempting treats, there are hidden dangers everywhere. But with a little caution, you can ensure your dog enjoys the festive season as much as you do.
An Overview of the Biggest Christmas Dangers for Dogs
1. Christmas Treats: Delight or Danger?
The festive season is synonymous with delicious sweet and savoury treats, but many of these are unsafe for dogs.
Chocolate
Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Symptoms include vomiting, tremors, and seizures.
Gingerbread
The spices it contains, such as nutmeg and cloves, can lead to poisoning and neurological issues.
Sultanas and Grapes
Even the smallest amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Macadamia Nuts
These nuts are highly dangerous to dogs and can harm their health.
Xylitol in Sugar-Free Sweets
Just 0.05g of xylitol per kilogram of your dog’s weight can cause severe poisoning symptoms.
Save Alternatives
If you want to treat your dog, opt for small pieces of unseasoned, cooked chicken or turkey, carrots, or apples.
A Note on Cooked Bones:
While a few small cooked but unseasoned meat is safe for dogs, avoid giving them cooked bones. These can splinter and cause severe injuries to the digestive tract.
2. Poisonous Plants: A Green Nightmare for Dogs
Many popular Christmas plants are highly toxic to dogs, including poinsettia, mistletoe, holly, and amaryllis. While poinsettia and holly may “only” cause vomiting and diarrhoea, amaryllis can trigger serious symptoms such as tremors, convulsions, and heart problems.
Safety Tip: Keep these plants out of your dog’s reach or avoid them altogether. If your dog consumes any plant material, contact a vet immediately, especially if symptoms like breathing difficulties or convulsions occur.
3. Fairy Lights and Cables
Twinkling fairy lights add a festive glow but can be hazardous for dogs. Chewing on cables can result in electric shocks and burns. Prevention: Secure cables with covers or hide them. Battery-powered fairy lights are a safer alternative.
4. Wax Candles and Advent Wreaths
Real wax candles create a cosy atmosphere, but they can pose risks if knocked over by a dog. Hot wax can cause burns, and ingesting candles may upset their digestive system. Candles containing fragrances or essential oils are especially dangerous and can lead to poisoning or respiratory issues.
Advent Wreaths: Fir branches and needles contain essential oils that may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing vomiting or diarrhoea. Place wreaths and candles out of reach or switch to electric alternatives.
5. The Christmas Tree: A Sparkling Magnet for Dogs
The Christmas tree, often the centrepiece of the festive season, can also be a source of danger. An unsecured tree can topple over, potentially causing injuries.
Tips: - Ensure the tree is firmly secured with a sturdy stand or additional wall fixation. - Regularly clean up fallen pine needles, as these can cause gastrointestinal problems if ingested. - Discourage your dog from chewing on branches.
6. Fragile Decorations
Glass baubles and other delicate ornaments may look lovely but can shatter easily. Broken shards can injure a dog’s paws or cause harm if swallowed.
Safer Options: Use decorations made from wood, felt, or plastic, and keep fragile items out of reach.
7. Tinsel and Decorative Ribbons: A Sparkling Danger
Glittering tinsel and colourful ribbons can look like toys to dogs but are far from harmless. If swallowed, they can cause a dangerous intestinal blockage requiring surgery.
Better Alternatives: Replace tinsel with fabric or paper decorations to eliminate this risk.
When Should You Visit the Vet?
Despite taking precautions, if your dog shows any of the following symptoms, contact your vet immediately:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, especially with blood.
- Difficulty breathing, tremors, or convulsions.
- Persistent abdominal pain, restlessness, or loss of appetite.
- Suspected ingestion of harmful items like tinsel, glass, plants, or toxic food.
- After an electric shock.
- Wenn Ihr Hund etwas Giftiges genascht hat, selbst wenn er noch keine Vergiftungssymptome hat.
Conclusion
With a few simple precautions, you can make the festive season safe and enjoyable for your dog. Stay vigilant with treats, decorations, and plants, and celebrate the holidays together without any unwelcome surprises!
English 
Deutsch 
Français