Holiday Dog Safety: Avoid Christmas Hazards & Keep Pets Safe

Why Christmas Can Be Risky for Dogs

The holiday season brings joy, but it also introduces new hazards for our four‑legged family members. Bright lights, unfamiliar guests, rich foods, and festive decorations can turn a cozy home into a danger zone for dogs. By planning ahead, you can keep your pup safe while making them feel like a beloved part of the celebration.

Make the Home Environment Physically Safe

Decorations & the Christmas Tree

Secure the tree with a sturdy base or wall/ceiling anchors so it won’t tip if bumped or climbed.
Block access to tree water; additives and stagnant water can cause stomach upset.
Keep breakable ornaments, tinsel, ribbons, and string lights above tail or nose height to prevent cuts, choking, or intestinal blockage.
Cover or tuck away electrical cords and batteries—chewing can lead to electric shock or chemical burns.
Place candles, menorahs, and wax melters out of reach and never leave open flames unattended around pets.

Plants & Seasonal Items

Avoid toxic plants such as poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, lilies, and amaryllis; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or serious illness.
Store small gifts, toys, batteries, and wrapping debris (ribbon, bows, tape) promptly—these are common choking and obstruction hazards.

Food & Kitchen Safety

Keep dogs away from toxic Christmas foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol‑sweetened candy, onions, garlic, leeks, chives, alcohol, certain nuts, fatty meats/skins, bones, and uncooked bread dough.
Never leave food on low tables or unattended counters; supervise buffet areas and trash bins.
Keep your dog out of the busy kitchen to prevent burns or cuts.

Cold Weather & Outdoor Safety

Limit time outside for small, short‑haired, senior, or sick dogs; provide a coat or sweater if needed.
Wipe paws after walks to remove ice‑melt chemicals, road salt, and ice balls that can irritate skin or be toxic if licked.
Supervise around fireplaces and space heaters; use screens or barriers to prevent burns.

Prevent Escapes & Emergencies

Use baby gates, closed doors, or leashes near exits when guests are coming and going.
Ensure ID tags and microchip details are up to date in case your dog slips out.
Keep local emergency vet contacts and poison control numbers handy throughout the holidays.

Protect Your Dog’s Emotional Well‑Being

Stick to a Familiar Routine

Maintain regular feeding, walking, and sleeping schedules as much as possible. Consistency helps reduce holiday‑related stress.

Manage Noise, Guests, and Space

Inform guests you have a dog and set clear rules: no feeding from the table, keep doors closed quickly, and respect the dog’s personal space.
Provide a quiet, dog‑only safe zone—a bedroom or crate with their bed, water, and favorite toys—where they can retreat from noise and crowds.
For noise‑sensitive dogs, ask your vet about calming aids (pheromone diffusers, L‑theanine, Zylkene) and consider white noise or soft music in their safe room.

Supervise Interactions

Watch all interactions between your dog and children or unfamiliar adults; teach kids to be gentle and to leave the dog alone when it’s in its bed or crate.
Look for stress signals—lip licking, yawning, turning away, hiding, or growling—and move your dog to a quiet space before anxiety escalates.

Include Your Dog in the Festivities Safely

Festive, Dog‑Safe Treats

Serve plain cooked turkey or chicken (no skin, bones, onions, or rich gravy) as a special holiday protein.
Offer low‑calorie extras like plain pumpkin, green beans, carrots, or peas.
Use a stuffed Kong or puzzle feeder during meals to keep them occupied and mentally stimulated.

Activities & Traditions

Take a long walk or play session earlier in the day to burn energy and reduce anxiety before guests arrive.
Include your dog in family photos—use a comfortable, non‑restrictive holiday collar, bandana, or harness (avoid anything that interferes with breathing or movement).
Wrap a couple of dog toys or chews and let them “unwrap” under supervision, removing any loose paper, ribbon, or plastic immediately.

Travel & Visiting Tips

If traveling, pet‑proof the accommodation just as you would at home: check for accessible meds, trash, cords, plants, and food.
Use a safe restraint in the car (crate or seat‑belt harness) and bring familiar items—bed, toys, and usual food—to reduce stress.
When the destination is chaotic or unsafe, consider a reputable sitter or quiet boarding option where your dog’s routine can be maintained.

Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Verify ID tags and microchip information are current.
Save the phone number of your local emergency veterinary clinic and the national poison control hotline.
Keep a pet‑first‑aid kit handy (bandages, tweezers, saline solution, etc.).
Know the location of all household hazards (candles, chemicals, cords) and have a plan to secure them quickly.
Designate a family member or neighbor as the “dog guardian” during parties to monitor the pet’s safety and well‑being.