I know for most of us pup parents we love being able to share our lives and even our food with our pups! It's important to know what they can eat and what they cant.
Know What To Share
I know for me I love being able to share the holiday season with Bella weather it be fall walks in the cool crisp air or a bite of what ever I am eating that I can share with her. It's important to know what is safe to share with your pup.
Do Share - White meat turkey or chicken meat but no skin or bones, plain green beans, plain sweet potatoes, plain pumpkin but no pumpkin pie though because it usually contains spices that are toxic to dogs, plain carrots, cranberries but no cranberry sauces because they can contain sugars and sweeteners that are not dog friendly.
Do Not Share - Anything with onions, garlic, raisins, stuffing is a no go since it contains a lot of sodium and other ingredients dogs should not have, artificial sweeteners like xylitol, baked goods with lots of oil, butter or sugar.
This by no means is a comprehensive list, I just shared some of the more popular holiday items that are safe for most dogs. It is always a good idea to check with your vet too and see if what you want to share is suitable for your dog. When in doubt don't share!
Plan Ahead For Festive Treats for Your Pup
Consider preparing holiday-themed lick mats or Toppl treats in advance to keep your pup entertained and happy during festivities.
One idea is to use Stella and Chewy's Stella Stew in turkey or chicken flavor, paired with nonfat Greek yogurt, pumpkin, and a teaspoon or two of plain unsweetened apple sauce for a tasty dessert touch. I made this one for Bella to try it out nd she loved it! I shared a photo of it below.
Another fun recipe could be mashed sweet potatoes (unsweetened), shredded cooked turkey, a dollop of unsweetened applesauce, and a sprinkle of crushed, unsalted green beans, topped with a few blueberries for a festive finish.
You can also bake up a batch of my 3 ingredient peanut butter and banana dog treats! Pups love them! It's one of my most viewed blogs!
Preparing these treats ahead of time ensures they're ready when you need them, making holiday moments more relaxed for both you and your dog.
Secure The Trash
Dogs have an incredible knack for sniffing out tasty leftovers, even when they're in the trash. Make sure your garbage is securely covered or placed out of reach to prevent any post-feast dumpster-diving adventures. The holidays are no time for emergency vet visits.
I’ve been to many gatherings where I move the trash as a precaution before the family pup even thinks about getting into it! So if you invite me over and see me relocating your trash to a counter or somewhere out of reach—now you know why! Haha.
No Bones About It
While a turkey bone or any cooked meat bone might seem like a tempting treat, it can splinter and cause serious harm to your dog's digestive tract. Do not feed any cooked bones to your dog!
Keep an Eye on the Door
With friends and family coming and going, it's easy for a sneaky pup to slip out unnoticed. To prevent any unexpected escapes, consider putting up a baby gate or barrier near the main entrance to your home. This simple step ensures your pup stays safely inside, even during the hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings.
Also, make sure your dog has a collar with proper identification that includes current contact information. This way, if they do manage to slip out, they'll be more likely to be quickly reunited with you without a trip to the shelter. If your dog needs a stylish and secure collar, you can find options in my shop to help keep them safe and looking great.
Create a Canine Haven
Set up a cozy corner or room for your pup with their bed, toys, and a water bowl. This dedicated space not only provides them with a safe and familiar spot but also helps them relax amid the holiday excitement. Having an area like this year-round ensures that when things get overwhelming, your dog knows exactly where to go to feel secure and comfortable.
Watch the Decorations
While festive decorations add to the holiday spirit, they can pose a hazard to curious pets. Keep things like candles, potpourri, and other decorations that could tempting to be chewed or swallowed out of your dogs reach.
Bella in her younger days loved playing with toys so she would always think any decorations that resembled a soft squeaky toy were for her. I had many times where I would come home from being out and she would greet me with different decorations in her mouth. Thankfully she was just a toy holder not a toy destroyer!
Remember to Keep Up Schedules
Sticking close to your pups routine can help your pup feel a bit less anxious especially when there is a lot going on. Daily enrichment and walks can also provide some quality bonding time away from the hustle of the holidays.
I hope these tips help you and your pups have a safe and healthy holiday season. By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure that your bestie stay happy and secure while you enjoy all the festivities.
Wishing you and your pup a joyful and stress-free holiday!
XO Alexandra