Top Tips For Dog-Proofing Your Home This Christmas

20 . December .2024Katy van suilchem0 Comments

Christmas is one of the most exciting times of the year - full of decorations, delicious food, and those presents you definitely won’t be re-gifting next year…(no judgment here!) But amidst the festive chaos, let’s make sure we’re keeping an eye on our pups! While we’re busy getting a bit too merry on the sherry, our dogs might be sneaking something they shouldn’t off the table, getting tangled in tinsel, or simply feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the noise and commotion.

To help keep your dog safe and happy throughout the holidays, we’ve listed some hazards you should be aware of and some simple ways to avoid them. Let’s make sure this Christmas is the best one yet for you and your furry friends!

Food Hazards

Chocolate

We all know chocolate is a no-go for dogs. It contains theobromine, which can be toxic and cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst, and even seizures. Keep chocolate well out of reach, and if you suspect your dog has ingested any, contact an emergency vet right away.

Rich Foods

Those big puppy dog eyes under the table might be hard to resist, but sharing rich, fatty foods can be harmful to your dog, potentially leading to pancreatitis—a serious and painful condition. Keep an eye on any naughty attempts to grab leftovers, and instead, why not let your pup join the festive fun with a safer dinner like our Turkey & Veg Cold-Pressed?

Bones

It’s best to avoid giving your dog cooked poultry bones from chicken or turkey, as they can splinter and cause internal injuries. Instead, keep them entertained with natural Cobbydog treats like moon bones, trachea treats, and pig ears.

Raisins

A lesser-known danger for dogs is raisins, which can cause kidney failure. Keep foods containing raisins, like Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, mince pies, and fruitcake out of reach. The same applies to grapes, so if you have any around, make sure they’re kept well away from your dog!

Decorations

Christmas Tree

Make sure your tree is sturdy enough to withstand any roughhousing from your dog (no one wants the Christmas tree to topple on Granny this year!) Fir, pine, and spruce trees are generally non-toxic, but pine needles or tree sap can upset your dog’s stomach, so try to clean them up as best as you can.

If you have a plastic tree, try to keep any chewy pups away, especially if it has a fake snow coating, as these can sometimes be toxic. Secure everything as much as possible, and consider using a tree barrier to keep your tree, presents, dog (and Granny) safe and sound this Christmas.

Christmas Decorations

Keep your Christmas tree dog-proof by steering clear of decorations that pose risks. Delicate baubles can easily shatter, and tinsel can become a choking hazard if ingested. Don’t forget about those fairy lights either - hide electrical cords or secure them properly to prevent any accidents caused by overexcited pups dazzled by the sparkle. For added safety, some dog owners choose to decorate only the upper parts of the tree, or again, a tree barrier can come in handy.

Stress & Overcrowding

The festive season can be overwhelming for even the calmest of dogs, with new people, unfamiliar noises, and changes in routine often causing stress. This can result in agitated behaviours, loss of appetite, or general mood changes. To help your pup stay relaxed at Christmas, it’s important to be mindful of their feelings and take steps to make them feel more secure.

One great way is to create a safe haven in a room where your dog feels safe and comfortable. Provide some familiar toys and treats, and try to stick to a consistent routine, especially for mealtimes and walks. It also might be worth playing some white noise or calming music to mask any excessive noise.

Have a wonderful Christmas.

By staying vigilant and following a few simple proactive measures, you can ensure a safe and happy Christmas for your dog. Remember - keep food and decorations out of reach, secure your tree and lights, and create a cosy haven where your pup can retreat should things get a bit much.

Merry Christmas to you and your canine companions - stay safe, have fun, and we’ll see you in 2025!