Christmas Safety for Dogs: What to Watch for This Holiday Season

The holidays are full of traditions, decorations, and treats — many of which are harmless to us, but not always safe for our dogs.

With Christmas just a few days away, this is a gentle reminder of a few common holiday hazards we see every year, along with safer alternatives to help keep your dogs happy and healthy throughout the season.

Holiday Plants That Are Toxic to Dogs

Several popular Christmas plants can be dangerous if chewed or ingested by dogs.

Mistletoe is one of the most concerning. It is toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and more serious complications depending on the amount ingested.

Other plants to be aware of include:

• Holly, which can cause gastrointestinal upset

• Poinsettias, which are generally considered mildly toxic but can still cause irritation or stomach upset

When possible, opt for artificial versions placed well out of reach, or avoid these plants entirely in dog-accessible areas.

Dog Stockings, Chews, and “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Treats

Holiday dog stockings and gift bundles often include inexpensive chews that may not be safe, particularly rawhide.

Despite being widely sold, rawhide can pose serious risks, including:

• Choking

• Intestinal blockages

• Digestive irritation or injury

These risks are often higher with low-quality or imported rawhides commonly found in holiday packs.

A good rule of thumb: if you don’t know where it was made or exactly what it’s made from, skip it.

Safer Alternatives

• Single-ingredient chews from reputable brands

• Durable rubber toys

• Food puzzles with dog-safe fillings

• Supervised chew time with products you already know and trust

Decorations, Wrapping, and the Christmas Tree

Holiday décor creates another set of seasonal risks.

Items like tinsel, ribbon, ornament hooks, and wrapping materials are common causes of holiday vet visits. Even small pieces can lead to serious internal issues if swallowed.

To reduce risk:

• Secure Christmas trees so they can’t be tipped

• Avoid edible or dangling decorations at dog height

• Clean up wrapping paper, ribbons, and tags promptly after gifts are opened

• Be mindful of candles and cords within reach

A Calm, Dog-Safe Holiday

The holidays don’t need to be stressful. A little awareness and a few thoughtful choices go a long way toward keeping your dogs safe while still enjoying the season.

If you ever have questions about what’s safe or appropriate for your dog, we’re always happy to point you toward reliable resources or share what we’ve learned along the way.

Wishing you and your dogs a safe, cozy, and joyful holiday season.