11/27/2024
During the holidays, it's important to keep in mind which foods are safe and which are dangerous for dogs. Many holiday foods contain ingredients that can be toxic to them, so here’s a quick reminder of what your dog can safely enjoy, along with a list of foods to avoid:
Safe Foods for Dogs:
Plain Turkey: Cooked turkey without skin, bones, or seasoning
Carrots: Raw or cooked, carrots are a healthy snack for dogs.
Sweet Potatoes: Plain, cooked sweet potatoes (without butter, sugar, or seasoning)
Green Beans: Fresh or cooked green beans (without seasoning)
Apples: Apple slices (without seeds or core) are safe and a good source of fiber and vitamins.
Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin or pure canned pumpkin (not spiced) is excellent for digestive health.
Plain Rice: Cooked white rice can be a gentle food for an upset stomach.
Peanut Butter: A small amount of plain peanut butter (without xylitol)
Plain Mashed Potatoes: Without butter, garlic, or seasoning, plain mashed potatoes are okay in moderation.
Cheese: Small amounts of cheese can be a tasty treat if your dog tolerates dairy.
Foods to Avoid (Toxic to Dogs):
Chocolate: Extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
Onions and Garlic: These are harmful in any form (raw, cooked, or powdered)
Grapes/ Raisins: These can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
Xylitol: This artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, baked goods, and candies can cause severe drops in blood sugar and liver damage.
Bones: Cooked bones (like from turkey or chicken) can splinter and cause choking or internal injury.
Dough: Raw dough (especially with yeast) can expand in the dog’s stomach, causing pain and bloating.
Citrus Fruits: Most citrus fruits are acidic and can cause digestive issues.
Nutmeg: Found in many holiday spices, nutmeg is toxic to dogs and can cause nausea and seizures.
Fatty Foods: Foods like fatty meats, gravy, and skin can cause pancreatitis in dogs.
General Tips: Even safe foods should only be given in small amounts. Make sure holiday foods are kept on countertops or tables that your dog can't access. If you’re introducing new foods, watch for any signs of allergies (like itching, vomiting, or diarrhea).
