A dog friendly Christmas you’ll both enjoy

Dogs and Christmas trees (or puppies and Christmas trees!) are not always a good mix. Because, while a decorated tree looks magical, dogs often think it’s their new play area…with plenty of irresistible new chew toys! Follow these tips for a dog friendly Christmas tree and make sure your dog (and your tree) remain unscathed during the holidays: 

Whether you have an artificial Christmas tree or a real Christmas tree always: 

• Supervise your dog around the tree, especially in the first couple of days when everything is new and tempting
• Skip fragile, sharp, or edible decorations
• Keep ornaments on the lower branches simple and sturdy, or avoid placing any at nose height
• Avoid tinsel, chocolate ornaments, or artificial snow which can be dangerous if swallowed. Look for shatterproof baubles 
• Use LED or other flameless candles instead of real flames
• Choose natural, dog-safe materials like wood, straw, or paper for anything within reach
• Make sure you have a sturdy Christmas tree base, or try a Christmas tree guard, to stop any accidental topples 

The final step to a dog proof christmas tree is avoiding treats or toys on the branches. They’re far too tempting and can lead to your dog knocking over the tree or swallowing something they shouldn’t. Save the fun for a doggy-specific advent calendar filled with safe treats and toys instead.

Decorating your home is part of the fun of Christmas, but always keep your four-legged friend in mind. Some festive decorations can be dangerous for your dog:

• Candles, especially scented ones, create a cozy holiday atmosphere, but they also pose a fire and injury risk. Make sure they’re well out of your dog’s reach so they can’t be knocked over by a wagging tail! And never leave your dog unattended with open flames
• Seasonal plants, like poinsettias, Christmas roses, and mistletoe, are poisonous to dogs. Our advice is to avoid them altogether, but if you really want them, make sure they’re well out of reach
• Ornaments and other fragile decorations can break easily and injure your dog. Choose ones that are sturdy and less likely to shatter or break 
• Tinsel, glittery garlands, and gift ribbons might look fun, but many dogs can’t resist playing with them—and they’re easy to swallow and can cause a choking hazard 

The good news is that there are plenty of dog-friendly options to choose from: LED lights, Christmas cacti or other non-toxic plants, and sturdy decorations made from paper, wood, or straw. You can even make salt-dough ornaments with your dog’s paw or nose print. They’re fun to make and an eco-friendly, safe alternative that brings joy year after year.

Let’s face it, we all indulge in a treat (or 10) over the Holidays. And why should dogs miss out on the fun? But only ever give them food meant for them—most of the goodies us humans enjoy at Christmas aren’t suitable for dogs

Avoid giving your dog:

• Cooked or fried fish, as small bones can splinter
• Christmas dishes seasoned with herbs and spices, which can be harmful or toxic Cooked or roasted bones of any kind—they become brittle and can break
• Christmas cookies or baked goods; they’re high in sugar, and sugar-free versions containing xylitol are extremely dangerous
• Festive ingredients that are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, certain nuts, raisins, alcohol, nutmeg, and cinnamon

Safe alternatives: It’s safest to stick to treats made for dogs. If you like baking, you can make your own holiday biscuits using dog-friendly ingredients such as banana, unsalted peanut butter, oats, and cottage cheese.

There are SO many fun things to do during the Christmas holidays, but not all of them are as fun for dogs as they are for humans.

• Christmas markets: For most dogs, the noise, crowds, flashing lights, and food smells are overwhelming. And even calm dogs can get hurt by broken glass or other accidents. Why not leave your dog at home and bring them a yummy dog-friendly treat from the market instead?
• Visitors: No doubt your dog loves a visit from friends and family (and all those extra parts). But make sure they have a quiet retreat space to rest if things get busy. Let guests know that when your dog goes there, it means they need a break
• Costumes: Elf costumes, Santa hats and Christmas jumpers might look cute on your dog but they’re best left for humans. Keep it simple with a nice festive collar instead
• Holiday walks: Winter walks can be lovely—just keep your eyes and ears open for fireworks and choose quieter routes if needed. Reflective gear is essential if you’re out in the dark over Winter 

And if your dog isn’t fussed about Christmas at all? A good long walk in the woods or a quiet play session might be exactly what they need.