Foods toxic to dogs: a holiday guide

Over the holidays, the house is full of good things: chocolates, meat pies, Yule logs, cheese boards. For your dog, it's also the season when temptation is everywhere. Some foods toxic to dogs hide in our most classic recipes. Here are the ones to keep out of reach, the decorations to watch, and what to do if your dog swallows something.

The most common foods toxic to dogs over the holidays

Chocolate

It contains theobromine, which dogs process very poorly. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Think of chocolates under the tree, in stockings and in desserts.

Grapes and raisins

They can cause serious kidney problems, and there's no known "safe" amount. Watch out for raisin bread, fruitcake, cheese boards and salads.

Onions, garlic, leeks and chives

Raw, cooked or powdered, they can damage a dog's red blood cells. You'll find them in stuffing, gravy, broth, meat pies and lots of leftovers.

Xylitol

This sweetener is very toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. It hides in gum, candy and "sugar-free" products, some baked goods and some peanut butters. Read the labels.

Macadamia nuts

They're toxic to dogs. Be careful with cookies, nut mixes and chocolates that contain them.

Alcohol and raw dough

A sip left in a glass, a punch, a boozy dessert: alcohol is dangerous for dogs. Raw bread dough can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol.

Coffee and tea

Caffeine is toxic to dogs. Keep mugs, beans and grounds out of reach.

Cooked bones and fatty leftovers

Cooked bones (turkey, ham) splinter into sharp pieces. Skin, fat and gravy can cause a bad stomach upset, and sometimes inflammation of the pancreas. Not the gift you want to give.

The tree and decorations: other hazards

• Holly and mistletoe: their leaves and berries are toxic to dogs.
• Poinsettia: it can irritate the mouth and stomach.
• Real tree water: it may contain sap and additives. Cover the tree stand.
• Ribbons, garlands and tinsel: if swallowed, they can block the intestine.
• Batteries and small ornaments: put them away as soon as they're out of the box.
• Electrical cords: secure or hide them, especially with a puppy who chews.

What to do if your dog ate something toxic

1. Call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away, even if your dog seems fine. Some effects only show up hours later.
2. Don't induce vomiting on your own. It can make things worse. Follow the veterinarian's instructions.
3. Note what they swallowed: the food, the approximate amount and the time. Keep the packaging, it helps a lot.
4. Remove the rest so they can't eat more.

Tip: before the holidays, save your veterinarian's number and the nearest emergency clinic's number, along with its hours, in your phone.

Hosting safely: a few habits

• Kindly ask guests not to give your dog anything, not even "just a little bite".
• Don't leave plates or glasses on the coffee table.
• Close the garbage tightly, or keep it behind a door.
• Set up a quiet room where your dog can rest during the meal.
• Give them a long-lasting toy while you're at the table.

Your dog can still have their share of the celebration. A simple treat does the job nicely, like our single-ingredient dehydrated apple slices. As with any treat, keep an eye on them while they enjoy it.

Frequently asked questions

My dog ate a small piece of milk chocolate. Is it serious?

The risk depends on the type of chocolate, the amount and your dog's weight. Only a veterinarian can assess it. Call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic without delay.

Can I give them a little turkey?

A small piece of plain white meat, with no skin, bones, gravy or seasoning, is usually fine. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or a special diet, ask your veterinarian first.

Which signs should worry me?

Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, tremors, weakness or unusual behaviour. But don't wait for signs: if you know they swallowed something toxic, call right away.

In short

Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and fatty leftovers: these are the foods toxic to dogs to watch for over the holidays. A little planning, informed guests and an emergency number at hand, and everyone gets to enjoy the party.