Can dogs eat Christmas dinner?

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and delicious feasts - but what about your furry friends? We know how hard it is to resist those puppy-dog eyes as you sit down for your holiday feast. And we’re not here to shame you - quite the opposite! With the right knowledge, you can safely involve your dog in the festive celebrations. Sharing a few dog-friendly tidbits from your Christmas dinner can be a lovely treat for them, as long as you’re mindful of what’s safe and what’s not. Let's dig into how you can safely share the Christmas spirit with your pooch while keeping them healthy and happy.

Which Christmas foods are okay for your pooch?

Wondering which Christmas favourites are safe for your dog? The good news is there are some options you can share guilt-free!

• Lean White Turkey: A classic Christmas staple, turkey (without the skin or seasoning) is a lean and nutritious protein for your pup. Just ensure there are no bones.
• Carrots and Parsnips: Can dogs eat carrots? Absolutely! These veggies are not only festive but also a great low-calorie treat. Serve them steamed for easy digestion. 
• Boiled Sprouts: Love them or hate them, sprouts can be a good source of fibre and vitamins for dogs. Just make sure they’re plain and unseasoned when you serve them.

What about other Christmas dinner items? Can dogs eat cauliflower or potatoes? While plain, cooked cauliflower and potatoes can be safe in small amounts, avoid serving them if they’ve been seasoned or prepared with butter.

Toxic dog foods to watch out for at Christmas

While some Christmas foods are dog-friendly, others can be downright dangerous. Always check ingredients carefully and steer clear of anything seasoned, salted, or sweetened. Here’s what to keep off their plates:

• Cheese: While a nibble of plain cheese might not harm them, many Christmas cheese boards feature rich, high-fat options that can upset your dog’s stomach or lead to more serious health issues.
• Raisins and Chocolate: Found in Christmas puddings and mince pies, these are highly toxic to dogs and should be strictly avoided.
• Christmas Trees: If you have a real tree, be cautious! Although they won’t be making their way onto our dinner plates, stay cautious as pine needles can cause digestive issues or even punctures if ingested.

How are you celebrating Christmas with your pooch? 

This Christmas, why not make your dog feel extra special? From festive dog treats to cosy Christmas jumpers, there are so many ways to involve your furry friend in the holiday cheer. Share how you’re celebrating with your pooch on social media! Tag us on Instagram @BarkingandMeowingHeads for a chance to be featured.

Christmas is the perfect time to bond with your dog—and with a little knowledge, you can make it both safe and enjoyable. Here’s to a pawsome holiday season filled with wagging tails and festive fun!