What You Should Know About Your Dog and Christmas

So you’re telling me I’m NOT supposed to lift my leg on this tree?” – Anonymous Pup

The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and festive traditions. Your dog is part of your family, but for your dog, it can also bring a whirlwind of unfamiliar sights, smells, and activities.

While you’re decorating, entertaining, and celebrating, Fido may be experiencing stress, over-excitement, or potential hazards you might not even notice. Understanding how Christmas affects your dog can help you keep the season merry, bright, and safe for every member of your household—including the four-legged ones.

How Christmas can affect your dog…

and what you can do about it…

1. Holiday Decorations Can Be Tempting (and Risky)

Christmas trees, shiny ornaments, twinkling lights, and fragrant garlands all spark curiosity in dogs. A swishing tree branch or glittering ball ornament can look like a toy inviting them to grab or nibble.

To keep your dog safe:

• Secure your Christmas tree so it won’t tip over if bumped.
• Avoid tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
• Place fragile ornaments higher on the tree.
• Keep electrical cords covered or tucked away to prevent chewing.
• Even natural holiday plants can be toxic.
  • Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can cause stomach upset or worse if eaten, so display them out of reach or choose pet-safe alternatives.

2. Holiday Foods Can Be Dangerous for Dogs

We all love the many treats that come with Christmas, but many holiday foods are unsafe for dogs.

• Chocolate, alcohol, grapes, raisins, onions, and certain spices can be toxic.
• Fatty foods like turkey skin or ham scraps can cause pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes serious condition.

To keep your dog safe:

• Remind guests not to slip treats under the table, and keep food out of reach during gatherings.
• If you want your dog to enjoy something special, offer dog-friendly holiday treats or create a designated “dog plate” filled with safe items like plain sweet potato or small pieces of boiled chicken. (such as the one to the right.)

3. Visitors, Noise, and Schedule Changes Can Cause Stress

Christmas often brings a very busy home full of company, laughter, and noise. For social dogs, this can be exciting—but for others, it can trigger anxiety. Even confident dogs may struggle with the constant doorbell ringing, loud conversations, or disruptions to their daily routine.

To keep your dog safe:

• Create a quiet retreat where they can relax undisturbed.
• Keep feeding, walking, and bedtime schedules as consistent as possible.
• Use calming tools such as dog-safe pheromone diffusers, calming chews, or soothing background music.
• Let guests know if your dog needs space, especially around children who may unintentionally overwhelm or frighten them.

4. Gifts and Wrapping Supplies Bring Hidden Hazards

Wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and plastic packaging can be irresistible for playful dogs—but they can also be dangerous if swallowed.

To keep your dog safe:

• Keep gift-wrapping supplies stored in containers and clean up promptly after present-opening.
• If you’re giving your dog a Christmas gift (and most pet parents do!), choose items that are size-appropriate, durable, and safe for chewing.
• Always supervise your dog with new toys until you’re confident they can play safely.

5. Extra Excitement Might Lead to Behavior Changes

The excitement of the holidays can affect dogs more than many owners realize. They may become clingier, more energetic, or more anxious. Some dogs might start counter-surfing with all the holiday food around, while others may retreat due to overstimulation.

To keep your dog safe:

• Pay attention to subtle signs of stress: pacing, panting, whining, hiding, or changes in appetite.
• A little extra patience, reassurance, and structure can help your dog feel secure.

A Merry Christmas to all, and to all a safe time…

Christmas can be such a fun time, and with just a bit of planning, you can ensure your dog enjoys it too. By being aware of seasonal hazards, protecting your pet’s routine, and providing them with comfort and attention, you’ll create a festive environment where both humans and dogs can relax and celebrate.

After all, your dog is part of the family—and the holidays are even brighter when everyone feels safe, happy, and loved.

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