Every holiday, I love treating my pups to something special so they can join in the celebration with the rest of the family. But here’s the challenge — most human food just isn’t made for canines. It’s often salty, fatty, full of spices and butter, or contains ingredients that can be toxic to our beloved doggos.
So, let’s take a quick journey through what dogs can enjoy safely, what they should never have, and how to make the holidays both festive and pet-friendly. Off we go!
🚫 Foods That Are a Hard No for Dogs
Some holiday favorites can cause serious trouble for your furry friend. Keep these off the menu — no exceptions.
- Alcohol – Even a small amount of beer, wine, or liquor can cause intoxication and alcohol poisoning.
- Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs, especially smaller breeds.
- Grapes & Raisins – Can trigger acute kidney failure; tartaric acid is the likely culprit.
- Onions, Garlic & Chives – Contain compounds that damage red blood cells and can cause anemia.
- Raw Potatoes – Contain solanine and chaconine, which can lead to digestive and neurological issues.
- Macadamia Nuts – High in fat and can cause pancreatitis; all nuts are too salty for dogs.
- Cooked Bones – Splinter easily and can cause choking, bleeding, or digestive blockages.
- Artificial Sweeteners (especially Xylitol) – Triggers insulin spikes and can lead to liver failure.
- Raw Bread Dough – Ferments in the stomach, creating alcohol and gas buildup that can be fatal.
- Nutmeg – Contains myristicin, which causes seizures and severe neurological effects.
- Eggnog – Loaded with alcohol, fat, sugar, and raw eggs — all bad news for pups.
- Caffeine – Overstimulates the nervous system and can cause tremors, seizures, or death.
- Stuffing/Dressing – Often includes onions, garlic, and too much salt or butter.
- Ham – Packed with sodium and fat that can harm kidneys and cause pancreatitis.
🎁 A Safer Way to Celebrate
The best holiday meals for your pup are the ones made just for them!
Scout & Zoe’s Holiday Dinner for Dogs is a limited-edition feast made with pup-safe, protein-rich favorites — turkey gizzards, chicken topper, venison, and sweet potato cranberry bones for dessert.
And remember — treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet to keep tails wagging and waistlines trim.
❤️ From My Pack to Yours
With a little planning and a dash of love, you can make your holiday feast safe, special, and delicious for every family member — two-legged and four.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Scout & Zoe’s!
🚨 PS......If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
Don’t wait — call your veterinarian or head straight to the nearest emergency clinic.
You can also contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 for immediate help.