The holidays are a time for family, friends, and food—and at Dog City NYC, we know our dogs are part of the celebration. While it’s tempting to share festive treats, it’s important to remember that many popular holiday dishes can be dangerous for dogs. Understanding holiday foods dogs should avoid can help keep your pup safe, healthy, and happy all season long.
Below is a guide to common holiday foods that should never end up in your dog’s bowl, along with safer alternatives to keep tails wagging.
Chocolate and Cocoa Desserts
Chocolate is one of the most well-known foods that dogs should avoid, yet it’s everywhere during the holidays. From brownies and cookies to hot cocoa, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, seizures, and in severe cases, death.
Safer option: Dog-safe carob treats or veterinarian-approved dog desserts.
Grapes, Raisins, and Currants
These ingredients often sneak into holiday breads, stuffing, and desserts. Unfortunately, grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, and even a small amount can be life-threatening. The exact toxin is unknown, which makes them especially risky.
Safer option: Fresh apple slices (without seeds) or blueberries in moderation.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Savory holiday dishes frequently include onions and garlic, whether cooked, raw, powdered, or dehydrated. These ingredients damage a dog’s red blood cells and can lead to anemia. Symptoms may not appear immediately, making them especially dangerous.
Safer option: Plain cooked vegetables like carrots or green beans with no seasoning.
Fatty Foods and Table Scraps
Rich meats, gravy, butter, and fried foods may be delicious to us, but they can cause serious digestive upset in dogs. Fatty foods increase the risk of pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious condition.
Safer option: Plain, skinless turkey or chicken (no seasoning, bones, or gravy).
Bones (Especially Cooked Ones)
Cooked turkey or ham bones can splinter easily and cause choking, broken teeth, or internal injuries. Even raw bones can pose risks if not properly prepared or supervised.
Safer option: Vet-approved chew toys or dog-safe dental chews.
Alcohol
Holiday cocktails, wine, beer, and even foods made with alcohol are extremely dangerous for dogs. Alcohol affects dogs much faster than humans and can cause vomiting, disorientation, breathing problems, coma, or worse.
Safer option: Fresh water or dog-friendly bone broth with no onions or garlic.
Xylitol and Sugar-Free Treats
Xylitol is a common sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and even some peanut butters. It causes a rapid insulin release in dogs, leading to dangerously low blood sugar and potential liver failure.
Safer option: Always check labels and use dog-specific peanut butter or treats.
Nuts (Especially Macadamia Nuts)
Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs and can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and fever. Other nuts are high in fat and can still lead to digestive issues.
Safer option: Plain dog treats or vet-approved holiday snacks.
Keeping Your Dog Safe During the Holidays
At Dog City NYC, we recommend setting clear boundaries during holiday gatherings. Let guests know not to feed your dog table scraps, keep unsafe foods out of reach, and prepare a few dog-safe treats in advance so your pup doesn’t feel left out.
Knowing which holiday foods dogs should avoid is one of the best gifts you can give your furry family member. A little awareness goes a long way toward ensuring a joyful and stress-free holiday season for everyone—especially your dog.
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