How to Dog-Proof Christmas

Christmas is an exciting time of year for both you and your pet. Unfortunately, dogs and Christmas are not always the safest combination. However, following the below tips and tricks can ensure you have a safe and happy Christmas.

Make Christmas tree safe

Probably the most tempting decoration for your dog. However, it can be one of the more dangerous. Perhaps consider using an artificial tree, this way the tree is more stable will have less of an exciting scent and will not drop needles on the carpet. If your dog were to eat fallen needles they could be at risk of a digestive puncture. The chemicals which would have also been added to the tree may also cause your pet to be poisoned. In this case, we would recommend contacting your vet immediately. If you did choose to go with a live tree rather than artificial we would recommend the tree is well watered to avoid needles falling off.

Ensure the tree is stable enough to avoid your dog from knocking the tree over. If you feel your dog may be tempted to pull at the braches, consider tying the tree to a wall or ceiling to try and avoid this happening. If you have a larger dog we would recommend sheltering the tree possibly behind a gate/ fence or sofa.

Use a distraction, particularly when the tree is being put up.

Ensure that your pooch is distracted by fun interactive dog toys. Trixie's Flip & Fun toy will get your dog excited. Whilst you're decorating the tree, they'll try to get the hidden treats by using various opening techniques for the flaps and sliders or by lifting the cones. 

If you find your dog needs to be distracted outside in the garden away from the tree going up you may want to look at some of our outdoor dog toys.

You may find your dog is most distracted when they have a tasty chew. We would highly recommend our natural Yakers dog treats which will keep your dog occupied for hours.

There are certain decorations you would want to avoid. This would be decorations like:

• Edible decorations (chocolate, candy canes)
• Glass
• Bells
• Metal hooks
• String of popcorn (if this were swallowed this may cause intestine issues which may be fatal)
• Salt dough (This may cause salt poisoning)
• Tinsel

Any of these items are particularly dangerous to dogs and would want to be avoided, especially if your dog is young and excitable.

Delay placing gifts around the Christmas tree

At Christmas time presents are traditionally placed around the tree. However, we would recommend delaying putting your presents around the tree for as long as possible. These will be particularly enticing for your dog. You would want to ensure these are kept out of the way of your dog for as long as possible. Especially any gifts which may contain chocolate.

If you are able to delay having the gifts out until Christmas day that would be the safest option.

Don’t forget it is very important to clear up the unwrapped presents once they are unwrapped. Whether that be the present itself as your dog may find this very interesting to chew or the wrapping paper itself. This could cause internal blockages you would want to ensure your dog is not picking up any leftover wrapping paper.

Don’t feed them Christmas dinner

Food is a dog deal for most families at Christmas. However, you want to ensure your dog sticks to his regular diet. We have a wide range of tasty dog food and treats available on our website which your dog would love.

Traditionally food that is eaten over Christmas is very rich, most likely too rich for your dog. Avoid giving your dog any leftovers from the table this may potentially be poisonous to your dog.

You may have family over for Christmas who may not be aware of your dog’s dietary needs. You would want to make it clear to your family and friends that you would not want your dog fed from the table. This would especially be the case if your dog requires a grain or wheat-free diet.

Ensure any cooked bones are kept well out of reach of your dog. Chewing on cooked bones can cause the bones to splinter and potentially harm your dog. Ensure any leftover bones are safely disposed of to avoid any unwanted trips to the vets over the Christmas period.

You can also try tempting your dog away from the Christmas table using one of the original KONG toys filled with delicious KONG Peanut Butter treats.

Help them relax

Christmas can be a very stressful time of year for your dog as well. The environment it knows as its safe environment has been changed and decorated. You may also have many people over visiting yours and your dog’s home.

If you find that your dog is quieter than usual, hiding away or behaving in an abnormal way this may be signs of stress. You would want to ensure that when you are enjoying your Christmas that your pet is also happy in their home environment.

You may find that homoeopathy and natural remedies help to soothe this. We supply a large range of dog anxiety and stress reliefs such as sprays, tablets, diffusers and drops which may help.

By following these tips and tricks this may help to ensure you and your pet have a safe and happy Christmas.