How to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy Over Christmas

Christmas is a time of celebration for the family but for our four-legged friends, the change in routine, tempting treats and noisy gatherings can be overwhelming. With homes busier and food everywhere, it’s important for dog owners to plan ahead to keep their pets safe and relaxed throughout the festive season.

To help, staycation experts Canine Cottages have teamed up with dog expert Dr Emma Scales-Theobald to reveal the most important things to know when supporting your dog’s wellbeing over the festive period.

Food: what’s safe – and what’s not – for dogs at Christmas

Many festive foods are dangerous for dogs, so prevention is key. Dr Emma explains: “Some of the most loved Christmas foods are toxic to dogs and in serious cases can cause emergencies such as kidney failure or seizures. If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to avoid sharing your plate.”

Foods to avoid:

• Chocolate
• Mince pies
• Christmas cake (raisins)
• Cooked bones
• Blue cheese
• Onions and garlic in gravy or stuffing
• Nuts (especially macadamia)
• Sweets containing xylitol
• Fatty or salty foods
• Alcohol

Safer options (in moderation):

• Plain cooked turkey
• Carrots
• Peas
• Sprouts
• Sweet potato
• Cranberries
• Dog-safe chocolate

If a dog does eat something harmful, early signs include hyperactivity, vomiting, refusal to eat, trembling or distress. Dr Emma advises: “Any sudden behaviour change after possible ingestion should be treated seriously, contact a vet straight away.”

Routine and stress management: keeping dogs calm with visitors and noise

Christmas can disrupt normal life, but consistency helps dogs feel secure. “Dogs thrive on routine,” says Dr Emma. “Predictability helps them relax when everything else feels chaotic.”

Key tips include:

• Keep feeding and walking times as close to normal as possible
• Give your dog a safe, undisturbed space or covered crate
• Use baby gates to create space from guests while still letting them see you
• Play calming music or white noise to drown out unfamiliar sound
• Offer long-lasting chews, lick mats or scent games to release calming endorphins
• Provide familiar items like a blanket or a worn jumper for comfort

Signs of stress to watch for:

• Tucked tail
• Pacing
• Whining
• Panting
• Drooling
• Hiding
• Destructive behaviour
• Going off their food

Gifting and enrichment: safe ways to treat your dog this Christmas

Stuck for a dog-friendly gift? Choose enrichment that’s both fun and safe.

Dr Emma recommends:

• Safety-tested rubber or rope toys (size-appropriate and supervised)
• Natural edible chews such as bully sticks
• Indoor enrichment like puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, scent games and short training sessions

“These activities boost dopamine and serotonin in dogs — helping keep them happy even when the weather limits outdoor adventures,” she adds.

For more dog-friendly holiday advice or to find places to stay where dogs are welcomed like family, visit: www.caninecottages.co.uk

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