6 Holiday Food Scraps That Are Dangerous for Dogs
As the holidays approach and our tables fill with delicious home-cooked meals, it’s important to remember that many holiday foods can be harmful or even toxic to dogs. To keep your furry friend safe, it's essential to avoid sharing certain foods with them. Here are six common holiday foods that you should keep away from your pup.
1. Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Mashed potatoes may seem harmless, but they often contain large amounts of butter and dairy, which can upset your dog’s stomach and cause diarrhea or pancreatitis. Gravy is similarly problematic, being high in fat and sodium.
Pup-Friendly Alternatives:
Milk-Bone GravyBones Small Biscuit Dog Treats
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Chunks in Gravy Dog Food Pouch
2. Meat Fat, Bones, and Skin
Turkey meat, skin, and fat can be irresistible to dogs, but they can lead to serious gastrointestinal issues, including pancreatitis. Bones, in particular, pose a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages or perforations, which can be fatal.
Safe Treat Options:
Hill's Natural Flexi-Stix Turkey Jerky Dog Treats
Nylabone Healthy Edibles Longer Lasting Puppy Turkey & Sweet Potato Flavor Dog Bone Treats
3. Casseroles and Spreads
Holiday casseroles are usually filled with dairy, butter, oils, and toxic ingredients like garlic and onions. Even if they include vegetables safe for dogs, the added ingredients make them dangerous. Additionally, avoid giving dogs any cheese balls or fatty dips and spreads as most dogs don’t tolerate dairy well.
Healthy Dog Snacks:
Greenies Teenie Sweet Potato Natural Small Dental Dog Treats
Nulo FreeStyle Chicken & Green Beans in Broth Dog Food Topper
4. Stuffing
Stuffing is another food to avoid, as it's typically high in fat and sodium and often contains onions and garlic, both of which are toxic to dogs.
Dog-Friendly Treats:
American Journey Turkey Recipe Grain-Free Soft-Baked Dog Treats
Hill's Grain-Free Soft-Baked Naturals with Chicken & Carrots Dog Treats
5. Holiday Breads
Holiday breads, especially fruitcakes, can be extremely dangerous for dogs due to ingredients like raisins, which can cause kidney failure. Even a few raisins can be fatal.
6. Desserts
While we may enjoy holiday desserts like apple pie, pumpkin pie, and chocolate treats, these can be very harmful to dogs. Chocolate is toxic, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol can be deadly even in small amounts. It's best to keep all desserts out of your dog’s reach.
Safe Sweet Treats:
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Baked with Pumpkin & Cinnamon Dog Treats
How to Avoid an Emergency Vet Trip, Dangerous for Dogs
While it may be tempting to share your holiday food with your dog, it's safer to stick with dog-friendly treats and foods. Providing your pup with their own tasty, safe treats can keep them healthy and happy throughout the holiday season.
By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can ensure a safe and joyful holiday for both you and your furry family member.
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