Everyone looks forward to Christmas dinner. But, perhaps, no one looks forward more to all the trimmings than the family’s beloved dog. Even well-behaved dogs may not be able to give in to the temptation of jumping up to grab a part of a delicious Christmas dinner.
Knowing what your dog can and cannot eat at Christmas will ensure a happy and a healthy holiday for the whole family.
What Foods Can My Dog Eat At Christmas?
Carrots. Carrots are an ideal treat for dogs any time of the year. Either cooked or raw, carrots provide plenty of vitamins and nutrition for dogs.
Cooked chicken, beef, or pork. Dogs can have, in moderation, lean meats such as chicken, beef, or pork. However, be sure to serve your dog such foods without seasoning, fat, or gravy.
Green beans. Fresh or canned green beans, as long as they are unsalted, are packed with iron and vitamins.
Rice. Even if you won’t be serving rice at Christmas dinner, you can quickly and easily make a small bowl for your dog to enjoy at mealtime. Many people serve rice to dogs who are older or who have an upset stomach. Mix the rice with cooked chicken to make the perfect Christmas dinner.
Eggs. Dogs may jump for joy when given a thoroughly cooked egg, which provides easy-to-digest protein. Make sure, however, both the inside and the outside of the egg are cooked thoroughly.
What Foods Should My Dog Not Eat At Christmas?
While there are plenty of delicious and nutritious treats your dog can enjoy on Christmas, you must also be aware of those foods that your dog should not eat.
Bones. You may have just polished off a juicy Christmas turkey, as your dog sat eagerly at your elbows. But, avoid giving your pooch turkey bones as he could easily choke.
Chocolate. Arguably, no holiday is complete without chocolate. Dogs, however, can become extremely sick if they consume chocolate.
Onions. Onions can be lethal to your dogs. Avoid offering any foods that contain cooked or raw onions.
Avocado. Never give your dog avocado or foods containing avocado, which causes stomach and breathing issues in dogs.
Alcohol. Raising your glass and toasting the season? Keep the alcohol away from your beloved pooch or you risk seizures and even death.
Christmas Pudding and Mince Pies. They’re jam-packed full of currants, raisins and sultanas, which are toxic to dogs and they’re usually laced with alcohol which is also poisonous to dogs.
Grapes. Make sure you keep these out of reach of your dog. And remind visitors not to feed them to your dog either.
Regardless of your dog’s holiday meals, remember to offer food in moderation so he, like you, can enjoy a safe and a healthy Christmas season.
