Holiday Hazards: Dangerous Foods, Decorations, and More
The holiday season is filled with joy, family, and celebration, but for dogs, it can also bring unexpected dangers. From tempting table scraps to sparkly decorations, your home turns into a playground of potential hazards.
At Off Leash K9 Training Pittsburgh, we help owners prepare their dogs to stay calm and obedient through the holiday chaos. A little awareness and structure go a long way in preventing emergencies and keeping the season merry for everyone.
Common Holiday Hazards for Dogs
While many festive traditions seem harmless, they can pose serious risks to your dog’s health and safety.
- Dangerous Foods
Holiday favorites like turkey bones, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and fatty meats can cause anything from stomach upset to life-threatening toxicity. Even small portions of seasoned foods can harm your pup.
Teach your dog Leave It and Place commands to keep them from snatching food off counters or guests’ plates. For an in-depth look at table safety, our post on Backyard Safety for Dogs: BBQs, Kids, and Distractions covers how to manage your dog’s behavior around food and family gatherings.
- Toxic Plants
Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe may look festive, but they’re toxic to dogs if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach, or opt for artificial alternatives. - Tree Decorations and Ornaments
Tinsel, ornaments, and electrical cords can be irresistible for curious pups. Chewing on them can lead to intestinal blockages or electrocution. Always secure your tree and keep fragile ornaments higher up. - Wrapping Paper and Gift Ribbon
Many dogs love to tear into wrapping paper, but eating ribbon or tape can cause choking or intestinal issues. Supervise your dog while gifts are being opened. - Candles and Open Flames
A wagging tail or curious nose can easily knock over a candle. Choose flameless options or keep flames high and away from your dog’s reach.
The Role of Obedience Training During the Holidays
Obedience is more than a list of commands, it’s a safety tool. A dog who listens to Leave It, Stay, and Come is less likely to get into trouble during the holidays.
Our Basic & Advanced Obedience Program is designed to help your dog remain calm and focused, even with the excitement of guests, food, and decorations. Structured training gives your dog the tools to make better choices, which means fewer accidents and more enjoyable celebrations.
For additional safety guidance, the AKC’s holiday safety guide outlines foods and festive items that should stay off your dog’s menu.
Checklist: Holiday Safety for Dogs
- Avoid feeding table scraps or leftovers.
- Keep chocolate, grapes, and onions away from reach.
- Place plants and decorations out of chewing range.
- Secure electrical cords and hide wrapping materials.
- Supervise your dog around candles and fireplaces.
- Reinforce obedience commands before guests arrive.
- Provide a quiet crate or resting area for your dog to relax.
How to Create a Calm Holiday Environment
The holidays can be loud and unpredictable. Visitors, deliveries, and decorations can make even the calmest dogs anxious. Establishing structure before festivities begin helps your dog stay confident.
- Stick to your normal walk and feeding schedule.
- Use Place or Crate commands during busy times.
- Allow regular breaks in quiet areas away from noise.
- Reward calm behavior with praise or small treats.
If your dog struggles with overstimulation or excitement, our trainers can show you how to redirect that energy into focus and calmness using structured engagement exercises.
FAQs About Holiday Dog Safety
Q: Can my dog eat turkey or ham?
Plain, unseasoned turkey is safe in small portions, but avoid bones, skin, and rich gravies. Ham is often too fatty and salty for dogs.
Q: How do I keep my dog out of the kitchen while cooking?
Use the Place command or set up a baby gate to create boundaries. Reward calm behavior for staying out of food prep zones.
Q: What if my dog eats something toxic?
Contact your veterinarian immediately. If your regular vet is closed, find a 24-hour emergency clinic. Bring the packaging or label of what was eaten if possible.
Q: How can I train my dog to handle guests better?
Start with short practice sessions. Have a friend or family member ring the doorbell while you reinforce calm behavior. Use Sit or Place commands until your dog can handle greetings politely.
Final Thoughts
Holiday cheer should never come at the cost of your dog’s safety. By staying alert to seasonal hazards and reinforcing obedience commands, you can keep your dog safe, calm, and part of the festivities.
A well-trained dog doesn’t just avoid trouble, they enhance every family moment.
Want to keep your dog calm, safe, and obedient through the holidays? Contact us through our contact page and let’s prepare your dog for a joyful, hazard-free season.
