12/11/2023
Christmas Foods That Are Bad for Dogs
Saying no when your pet wants a piece of your plate doesn't make you a Grinch—especially when these toxic foods are involved.
Chocolate
Keep the hot chocolate, advent calendar chocolates, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate yule logs, and chocolate peppermint bark out of your pup's paws. Chocolate contains chemicals called methylxanthines that can cause cardiovascular and neurological problems in dogs. Instead, try one of these dog-friendly advent calendar options.
Eggnog
This isn't a festive drink for your pup, as many canines can actually be allergic to dairy products. Plus many eggnog varieties are quite fattening.
Peppermint
Under no circumstances can your dog have peppermint candy or other treats. While a couple fresh peppermint leaves are fine on occasion (like in these tasty breath mint treats), candies often contain xylitol, plus the cellophane wrapping could cause intestinal blockage.
Gingerbread
While it's certainly OK to make some dog-friendly holiday cookies with your favorite four-pawed elf, human gingerbread treats are on the naughty list. Most recipes call for nutmeg, which the Pet Poison Hotline indicates can be toxic for dogs.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts (also called Australia nuts and Queensland nuts) are another no-no. While the source of their toxicity isn't known, the ASPCA says they can cause lethargy, weakness, vomiting, and tremors.
Onions
Both raw and cooked onions are dangerous for dogs because they have sulfur-containing oxides that destroy their red blood cells.
Garlic
Garlic and onions are from the same family and can cause the same problems in dogs—only garlic is even more potent. Any foods made with fresh garlic and garlic powder are off-limits to pups.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are often packed with butter and spices like garlic, chives, scallions, and leeks which contain a chemical called thiosulfate and can be toxic for dogs. It's also important to be cautious when prepping this holiday staple because raw potatoes contain a compound called solanine that's also toxic. A small serving of cooked mashed potatoes is fine as long as it's unseasoned and unbuttered, so make pup his own little bit before whipping up the big dinner batch.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are sweet snacks that are better left on your plate. The cause of their toxicity is still a mystery, but the effects are not. In some dogs, it can lead to kidney failure.
Alcohol
It probably won't come as a surprise that beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages aren't appropriate picks for wetting your pet's whistle. Even a sip can cause alcohol poisoning in some dogs.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a popular sweetener that can be found in sugar-free foods like peanut butter, ice cream, and jam. Always read the label before you offer your pet any packaged foods because xylitol can lead to liver damage in large quantities.
If your dog gets into any of the above foods, please call one of the following as soon as possible:
Your pet's veterinarian
Your local emergency veterinary facility
