5 Odd Christmas Dangers to Keep Dogs Safe

Christmas is a magical time for families and including your dog in the festivities is a joyful part of the celebrations. However, the season also brings some unusual but dangerous hazards that dog owners might not consider. This guide highlights five quirky yet serious Christmas dangers to dogs, backed by current UK veterinary advice for 2025, to help you protect your furry friend during the holidays.

1. Blue Cheese: A Toxic Treat to Avoid

Blue cheese, including favourites like Stilton, is traditionally enjoyed at Christmas alongside rich meals and desserts. Many dogs love the smell and taste but blue cheese contains roquefortine C, a mycotoxin found in the mould that gives blue cheese its distinctive flavour.

This toxin can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, seizures, and potentially more serious neurological symptoms in sensitive dogs. Additionally, the high fat and salt content can trigger pancreatitis or salt toxicosis in some dogs, particularly those prone to digestive issues.

Even small amounts can cause discomfort, so it is safest to keep all blue cheese away from your dog. If you suspect your dog has eaten blue cheese and shows any signs of illness, contact your vet promptly.

2. Rotting or Mouldy Foods: Hidden Hazards After Christmas

With extra festive food waste, bin collections sometimes slow down, leading to accumulation of rotting or mouldy scraps. While these smells might be unpleasant to humans, dogs may find them tempting and try to scavenge from bins or waste areas.

Eating mouldy or decomposed food can lead to severe stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even poisoning depending on the type of mould or bacteria present. To mitigate this risk, secure your bins with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving waste accessible on the floor.

Keep a close eye on your dog and clean up any food waste promptly to prevent accidental ingestion.

3. Homemade Dough Ornaments: Salt Poisoning Danger

Handmade salt dough ornaments are a cherished seasonal craft, but their high salt content makes them very dangerous if eaten by dogs. Salt toxicosis can be fatal, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, seizures, excessive thirst, and dehydration.

Even one ornament eaten can be enough to cause problems, so always keep these decorations well out of reach and educate children to keep them away from pets.

4. Silica Gel Packets: Beware Small but Risky Sachets

Silica gel packets are common in new gifts and packaging during Christmas. Although not toxic, silica gel can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed by dogs, leading to serious complications requiring surgery.

Remove all silica gel sachets immediately while unwrapping presents, dispose of them safely, and keep wrapping debris away from curious pets. If your dog swallows silica gel, don’t induce vomiting; instead, monitor for symptoms such as vomiting or abdominal discomfort and call your vet for advice promptly.

5. Batteries: Silent but Severe Threat to Dogs

Many Christmas gifts and decorations use batteries, which are highly dangerous if chewed or ingested. Batteries can cause internal burns, poisoning, choking, and blockages. Symptoms of battery ingestion include drooling, vomiting, pawing at the mouth, and lethargy.

Store batteries securely out of reach and keep track of all batteries in use. If you suspect your dog has bitten or swallowed a battery, seek emergency veterinary assistance immediately.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Dog Safe This Christmas

The festive season is full of wonderful moments to share with your dog, but it also requires extra vigilance. Avoid feeding dogs blue cheese or salty dough ornaments, secure bins to prevent access to rotting foods, safely dispose of silica gel packets, and keep batteries well away from pets.

By being aware of these unusual hazards and taking preventative steps, you help ensure your dog enjoys a safe, happy Christmas with your family. Always consult your vet quickly if you have concerns about anything your dog may have eaten or played with during the holidays.

For tips on responsible pet ownership and finding puppies from reputable breeders, explore trusted UK resources and organisations. Your care makes all the difference for your best friend’s health and happiness.