5 Must-Know Christmas Questions from Dog Owners

Vets, veterinary nurses, the Pets4Homes forum and many dog owners often seek guidance on how to best care for their dogs, especially around Christmas. Festive celebrations bring unique hazards and questions due to decorations, food, and distractions. This article answers five frequently asked questions from dog owners at Christmas, promoting safe and responsible pet care over the holidays.

1. How to keep your dog safe from the Christmas tree?

Christmas trees attract dogs’ curiosity, but they can be risky. Real pine trees contain needles that are mildly toxic and sharp, which may hurt your dog if ingested. Artificial trees are safer but still require precautions. To keep your dog safe:

• Avoid placing edible decorations on the tree, especially chocolate or nuts, which are toxic.
• Securely anchor the tree to prevent tipping if your dog bumps it.
• Close off the room when you cannot supervise your dog around the tree.
• Use training commands like “no” and “leave it” to discourage your dog from approaching the tree.

Keeping decorations and gifts containing food out of reach prevents tempting your dog and potential poisoning.

2. What foods should you avoid feeding your dog at Christmas?

Christmas brings many unusual foods, many of which are harmful to dogs. While small, lean pieces of turkey without seasonings like onion or garlic can be safe treats, avoid the following:

• Chocolate – toxic due to theobromine content.
• Alcohol – dangerous and potentially fatal.
• Dried fruits such as raisins and sultanas – highly toxic to dogs.
• Fatty, salty, or sugary foods – can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis.
• Nuts, especially macadamia nuts – toxic to dogs.

A good rule is to stick to your dog’s usual balanced diet and dog-specific treats rather than sharing your festive meals.

3. Can dogs have gingerbread?

Gingerbread, a seasonal favourite, is not a healthy or appropriate dog treat. Many gingerbread recipes contain sugar, spices, and other ingredients unsuitable for dogs. However, if your dog accidentally ingests a small piece, it is unlikely to be toxic. Still, it is best to avoid deliberately offering it and instead provide dog-safe treats.

4. Can dogs eat Christmas cake?

Christmas cake and Christmas pudding are rich in dried fruits like raisins and sultanas, which are toxic to dogs. Additionally, these cakes often contain alcohol and lots of sugar and fat. Feeding Christmas cake to dogs can cause serious illness and must always be avoided to protect your pet’s health.

5. Is tinsel dangerous for dogs?

Tinsel is often overlooked as a hazard but can be very dangerous. The thin strands and wires hold tinsel together but also pose a risk of ingestion, which can cause severe gastrointestinal blockages requiring emergency veterinary surgery. To keep your dog safe:

• Place tinsel high on the tree, completely out of your dog’s reach.
• Secure it well so it cannot fall or become loose.
• Do not leave your dog unsupervised around tinsel-decorated areas.

Frequently asked: Can you give dogs Calpol?

Quick Answer: Calpol should not be given to dogs without veterinary supervision due to serious risks of toxicity and potential fatal effects.

According to current veterinary consensus in 2025, Calpol contains paracetamol (acetaminophen), which can cause liver and kidney damage in dogs if dosed improperly. Furthermore, some Calpol formulations have xylitol, an artificial sweetener extremely toxic to dogs that can cause fatal hypoglycaemia. For these reasons, veterinarians recommend dog-specific pain relief medications instead. If your dog accidentally ingests Calpol, seek immediate veterinary advice.

Responsible pet ownership means never administering human medicines to your dog without professional guidance. Instead, consult your vet for safe and appropriate treatment options if your dog needs pain relief or medication.

Conclusion

Christmas is a wonderful time to share with your dog, but it requires careful preparation to keep them safe. Avoid toxic foods, secure decorations like trees and tinsel, and never give human medicines like Calpol without vet oversight. Always prioritise your dog’s health and wellbeing during the festivities to ensure a joyful and safe holiday season together.