10 Safe Holiday Foods For Dogs: What to Share and What to Avoid

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and—of course—plenty of food. As tempting as it is to let your dog join in on the holiday festivities, not every dish is safe for them. While some foods can make delicious and healthy treats, others pose serious health risks. Knowing safe holiday foods for dogs can help you share the fun without putting your pup in harm’s way.

Key Takeaways

• Stick to Simple, Plain Foods: Many holiday foods are safe for dogs in small amounts, as long as they’re plain and free from seasoning or harmful ingredients.
• Avoid Common Hazards: Foods like chocolate, stuffing, and anything with onions, garlic, or raisins should be kept out of reach to avoid serious health issues.
• Small Portions and Moderation: Even safe foods should be given in moderation to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.

Watch Out for Pancreatitis

While it’s fun to treat your dog to holiday snacks, rich foods can lead to pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis often occurs when dogs consume foods high in fat, like turkey skin, gravy, or creamy dishes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy.

To avoid triggering pancreatitis:

• Skip the Skin and Fat: Give only lean cuts of plain meat, avoiding fatty skin or rich sauces.
• Stick to Small Portions: Even safe foods can become a problem if overindulged.
• Avoid Creamy, Butter-Laden Dishes: Foods like mashed potatoes with butter and cream can upset a dog’s digestion.

If you notice any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior after a holiday meal, it’s best to call your vet. Preventing pancreatitis with safe, low-fat treats can keep your pup healthy and comfortable during the holidays.

Safe Holiday Foods for Dogs

Wondering which foods are safe to share? From plain turkey to crunchy carrots, there are plenty of dog-friendly options to include in your holiday menu. Let’s take a look at the best treats for your pup and a few holiday favorites to avoid.

1. Turkey (Plain and Cooked)

Turkey can be a holiday treat for your dog, but only if it’s handled correctly.

• Safe in Moderation: Turkey is a good source of protein but only when it’s cooked plain. Remove the skin and fat, which are too rich for dogs and can lead to digestive issues.
• Bones Are a No-Go: Cooked bones are a choking hazard and can splinter, potentially causing injury.
• Small, Lean Portions: Stick to a few pieces of lean turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes offer a festive and nutrient-dense treat for dogs.

• Nutrient Powerhouse: Full of vitamins A and C, they promote eye health and immune support.
• No Seasoning Allowed: Serve them plain, baked, or boiled—no butter, marshmallows, or sugar. Avoid candied varieties entirely.
• Easy on the Stomach: These are easy to digest and a gentle option for your pup.

3. Pumpkin (Plain)

Pumpkin is a holiday favorite for dogs and helps with digestion.

• Fiber-Rich for Digestive Health: Pumpkin’s fiber content can help with constipation and loose stools alike.
• Skip the Sugar: Plain canned pumpkin is ideal, not the pumpkin pie filling that’s often loaded with sugar and spices.
• Add to Meals: A small spoonful in your dog’s food or mixed into homemade treats can be a fun addition.

4. Carrots

Carrots make a great holiday snack that’s easy to prepare.

• Serve Raw or Cooked: Both options are safe, but raw carrots provide a satisfying crunch that dogs enjoy.
• Low-Calorie Crunch: They’re low in calories, so you don’t have to worry about extra holiday weight gain for your dog.
• Chop to Size: Cut carrots into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent any choking risk.

5. Green Beans

Green beans are a nutritious, low-calorie option that can be added to your dog’s holiday meal.

• Packed with Vitamins: They’re high in fiber, vitamin K, and other essential nutrients.
• Plain and Simple: Avoid any kind of seasoning, butter, or oil. Just plain, cooked green beans work best.
• Easy Addition: Mix green beans with other plain foods for a well-rounded holiday meal.

6. Apples

Apples provide a crunchy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for the holiday season.

• Great Source of Fiber and Vitamin C: They can support digestion and immunity.
• Remove Seeds and Core: Apple seeds contain cyanide, so always remove them along with the core.
• Perfect for a Light Treat: Serve a few apple slices as a crunchy, festive snack.

7. Plain Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a holiday classic, but only in their simplest form.

• Hold the Additives: Plain, cooked mashed potatoes can be fine, but avoid any butter, cream, salt, or gravy.
• Small Portions Only: Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, so offer a small portion as an occasional treat rather than a meal replacement.

8. Plain Rice or Quinoa

Rice and quinoa are easy on the stomach, making them great holiday add-ons for your dog.

• Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs: These are simple grains that most dogs tolerate well.
• Keep it Plain: Serve without any seasoning, butter, or oil.
• Mix with Other Foods: You can add a bit of rice or quinoa to your dog’s holiday meal to add some variety.

9. Cranberries

Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, but a little goes a long way.

• Use Fresh or Plain Cooked: Avoid any sweetened or flavored versions, as these often contain sugar or other harmful ingredients.
• Watch Portion Size: The tartness of cranberries can be off-putting, so only offer a few at a time.

10. Peas

Peas are another simple addition that can make your dog’s holiday meal feel extra special.

• Plain and Cooked: Steamed peas or even frozen peas are safe, but avoid canned peas, which are often high in sodium.
• Nutrient-Dense: Full of vitamins and fiber, peas can support a balanced diet.

Holiday Foods to Avoid for Dogs

While it’s tempting to share all your holiday treats, some foods can be downright dangerous for dogs.

1. Chocolate

Chocolate is a big no-no due to theobromine, which is toxic for dogs even in small amounts.

• Keep It Out of Reach: All forms of chocolate—milk, dark, and especially baking chocolate—are dangerous.
• Be Wary of Baked Goods: Chocolate often hides in cookies, brownies, and cakes.

2. Stuffing and Gravy

Stuffing and gravy may be holiday staples, but they’re risky for dogs.

• Harmful Ingredients: Onion, garlic, and rich seasonings found in stuffing and gravy are toxic.
• Stick to Plain Sides: Serve your dog plain, unseasoned turkey or veggies instead.

3. Raisins and Grapes

Even a small amount of raisins or grapes can lead to kidney failure in dogs.

• Avoid Festive Desserts: Many holiday desserts contain raisins, so keep fruitcake and other raisin-filled treats far from your dog’s bowl.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs, even in tiny amounts.

• Serious Health Risks: Alcohol can cause vomiting, disorientation, and respiratory issues.
• Keep Drinks Out of Reach: Make sure your guests know not to leave any alcoholic drinks unattended.

5. Nutmeg

Nutmeg contains compounds that are toxic to dogs, which can lead to neurological issues.

• Watch Out for Spices: Nutmeg is often used in holiday baking, so keep your dog away from desserts like pumpkin pie or spiced cookies.

FAQs

Conclusion

Sharing safe holiday foods with your dog can make them feel part of the celebrations. Just remember to keep it simple and stick to foods like plain turkey, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Avoid anything with harmful ingredients, such as chocolate, stuffing, or raisins, and offer only small, portion-controlled servings. With a bit of planning, your dog can safely join in the holiday cheer.

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