Dog Christmas Guide
Keeping your dog safe, settled and happy over the festive season, from hazards and visitors to presents, using advice from the main UK animal charities.
About this guide. I wrote it from the published charity pages listed at the bottom. I am not a vet, so ask your vet about your own dog.
Christmas Day is Friday 25 December. This guide puts the advice from Dogs Trust, RSPCA, Blue Cross and Battersea in one place: what to keep out of reach, how to keep your dog settled, what makes a good present, and what to think about before a dog is given as a gift.
Start here
What do you need right now?
Pick where you are to see what matters.
Before the day
Keep your vet’s emergency number handy and stock up on any regular medication before the holidays, as RSPCA’s checklist says. I would also check your vet’s Christmas opening hours, which is my suggestion and not from the sources.
Set up a quiet, undisturbed place with a bed, fresh water and familiar toys for your dog to retreat to, and tell family and visitors that your dog may need extra space. Dogs Trust suggests teaching a reliable “leave it”, so your dog stays safe around human treats.
Plan the tree and decorations now. Blue Cross says to hang decorations high, never hang chocolate decorations, switch fairy lights off at the mains when not in use, and never leave your dog unsupervised near the tree.
Jump toWhat to keep out of reachPresents for your dogAway for Christmas
Sources: RSPCA, Christmas dangers for pets; Dogs Trust, Christmas advice for dog owners; Blue Cross, Christmas dangers for dogs.
On the day
Dogs Trust says to keep to your normal mealtimes and exercise, especially on days with guests. When visitors arrive, give your dog a distraction such as a long-lasting food-release treat or a chew, and never leave a child alone with a dog.
Let your dog join in only if they want to. Dogs Trust says not to force them, and to learn your dog’s body language so you can spot when they need space. Blue Cross says not to dress your dog up, because it can be stressful.
RSPCA says most dogs should stick mostly to their normal food. Blue Cross lists plain turkey without skin or bones, and plain vegetables such as carrots, peas, parsnips, sprouts and swede, as fine in small amounts if your dog is healthy. Keep unattended drinks and the bins out of reach.
Jump toWhat to keep out of reachSigns of trouble
Sources: Dogs Trust; Blue Cross; RSPCA.
Afterwards
RSPCA says to put bones straight into outdoor bins, and warns that mouldy leftovers can cause vomiting, tremors and seizures. Tidy up wrapping paper, ribbons, silica gel sachets and loose batteries, which can all cause harm if chewed or swallowed.
Keep watching your dog for a few days. RSPCA says dried fruit can cause kidney failure within 24 to 72 hours, and that anaemia from onions and garlic may not show up until days later.
If a toy has lost small parts, take them away. Dogs Trust suggests swapping small parts a dog pulls off a soft toy for a treat.
Jump toBoxing Day to New YearSigns of troubleWinter walks
Sources: RSPCA; Dogs Trust, enrichment activities.
A dog as a present?
Dogs Trust says a dog should not be an impulse buy or a gift that might be given up later. Its slogan, “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas”, dates from 1978. RSPCA’s Christmas page also says pets are for life, not just Christmas.
If someone you love wants a dog, Dogs Trust suggests sponsoring a dog as a gift instead, and fostering first as a trial. My own suggestion, not from the sources, is to talk it through together after the holidays, using the questions below.
Jump toTen questions to ask first
Sources: Dogs Trust, Should I get a dog?; Dogs Trust, our story; RSPCA.
Out of reach
Nine things to keep away from your dog
Flip each card for what the charities say.
Chocolate
Any amount can be harmful.
Chocolate
What to do
- RSPCA says chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause a fast heart rate, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and seizures, and to call a vet, who can assess how toxic it is
- Dogs Trust warns about chocolate decorations on the tree and in advent calendars, which are easy pickings, so keep your bin dog-proof
- Never hang chocolate decorations, as Blue Cross says
Grapes, raisins and puddings
Christmas pudding, cake and mince pies.
Grapes, raisins and puddings
What to do
- RSPCA and Blue Cross both list grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants as a danger, as they can cause kidney failure
- RSPCA says it can happen within 24 to 72 hours, even with a small amount, and to take your dog to a vet immediately
- They also turn up in Christmas cake and some reindeer food mixes, according to RSPCA
Onion, garlic and gravy
The allium family, cooked or raw.
Onion, garlic and gravy
What to do
- Blue Cross lists onion, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives as unsafe, including in gravy
- RSPCA says they can destroy red blood cells and cause anaemia, which may not show for days
- RSPCA also says gravy, stuffing, mint, cranberry and bread sauce are not suitable, and pigs in blankets are very high in salt
Xylitol and sugar-free treats
Check labels on anything sweet.
Xylitol and sugar-free treats
What to do
- RSPCA says xylitol, found in sugar-free gum, mints, baked goods, some nut butters and desserts, is extremely toxic
- Blue Cross lists sugar-free sweets such as candy canes as a risk, and Dogs Trust lists xylitol too
- If you make treats with peanut butter, Battersea says to check it is xylitol-free
Alcohol and macadamia nuts
Keep glasses and nut bowls out of reach.
Alcohol and macadamia nuts
What to do
- RSPCA says alcohol can cause drowsiness, wobbliness, low body temperature, low blood sugar, seizures and coma
- Blue Cross says macadamia nuts can cause tiredness, weak back legs, a raised body temperature, tremors and stiffness
- RSPCA says chocolate-coated macadamias can also cause chocolate poisoning
Bones, fat and leftovers
Cooked bones are not a treat.
Bones, fat and leftovers
What to do
- RSPCA says cooked and raw turkey or chicken bones can lodge in the throat, splinter and cause blockages, so put them in an outdoor bin
- RSPCA says fatty foods can cause pancreatitis, which can be fatal, and that mouldy leftovers can cause tremors and seizures
- RSPCA also lists string, cocktail sticks and chocolate coin foil as risks
Tree and decorations
Look, but do not chew.
Tree and decorations
What to do
- Blue Cross says baubles and tinsel can cause a dangerous blockage if swallowed, so hang them high, and RSPCA says tinsel can be life-threatening
- Blue Cross says fallen needles can lodge in paws and cause stomach upset or a blockage, so never leave your dog unsupervised near the tree
- RSPCA also lists cable chewing, crackers with small parts, scented candles and snow globes, which may contain antifreeze
Festive plants
Some are only mildly harmful, but avoid them all.
Festive plants
What to do
- Blue Cross and RSPCA both list poinsettia, holly, mistletoe, ivy and potpourri
- RSPCA says holly berries cause vomiting or diarrhoea, and that all parts of lilies are highly toxic to cats and dogs and can cause fatal kidney failure
- Keep plants out of reach, and sweep up fallen leaves and petals
Presents and wrapping
Move edible gifts out from under the tree.
Presents and wrapping
What to do
- RSPCA says small toys can block the stomach or intestines, and that batteries and silica gel sachets are risks
- RSPCA says paper, ribbons and labels can be choking hazards, and paper with glitter or foil is harmful
- RSPCA and Blue Cross both say to keep wrapped presents out of reach, especially edible ones
Vet bills can add up, and pet insurance can help. Check the cover, limits and exclusions before you buy.
Quotes are not a recommendation of any policy.
If it goes wrong
Signs of trouble
If you think your dog has eaten something harmful, do not wait for signs. Ring your vet straight away.
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Drooling, gagging, retching or pawing at the face
Unusual tiredness, wobbliness or collapse
Tremors, seizures or a racing heart
Belly pain, straining, or not eating
Signs that only appear days later
Sources: RSPCA; Dogs Trust. RSPCA says do not try to make your dog sick or give salt water, and to bring a sample of what they ate, including the packaging, to the vet. If you cannot reach a vet, RSPCA lists the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000, a 24-hour service for which a fee applies.
Presents
Nine ideas for your dog’s stocking
Flip each card for what the charities suggest and what to check.
Toys
Pick the right size and shape.
Toys
What to do
- Blue Cross lists a ball on a rope, a stuffed rubber toy, a squeaky toy, a tug ring and a treat ball, and says balls must be too big to swallow
- Dogs Trust says to choose toys that are non-toxic, the right size, and have no parts that could injure the mouth, throat or gut
- If your dog pulls small parts off a soft toy, take them away and swap for a treat
Long-lasting chews
Something to do while visitors are in.
Long-lasting chews
What to do
- Dogs Trust suggests a long-lasting food-release treat or chew as a distraction when guests arrive
- Offer it in your dog’s quiet space, and watch your dog while they enjoy it
- Skip cooked bones, as RSPCA warns they can splinter and cause blockages
Lick mat and puzzle feeder
Slows eating and keeps them busy.
Lick mat and puzzle feeder
What to do
- Dogs Trust suggests spreading food on a lick mat, or pre-filling a rubber feeder and chilling it so the food lasts longer
- Supervise, in case your dog needs help
- Count food-based enrichment into the day’s allowance to avoid weight gain
Snuffle mat and sniff games
Let them use their nose.
Snuffle mat and sniff games
What to do
- Dogs Trust suggests a snuffle mat with kibble hidden in it, or a dig box of scrunched-up paper
- Scatter food or lay a treat trail indoors or in the garden
- A toilet roll tube with kibble inside is a free alternative
A brush
Choose one to suit the coat.
A brush
What to do
- Blue Cross lists pin, slicker and bristle brushes, a rubber brush, a grooming mitt, and an undercoat rake for heavy moulters, and says to ask your vet which suits your dog
- Start young if you can, and pair brushing with treats. If your dog is nervous, leave the brush out and build up gently
- While you brush, check for lumps, bumps, fleas or ticks, and look at teeth, eyes, ears and claws
Homemade treats
A small, occasional extra.
Homemade treats
What to do
- Battersea has a simple Christmas biscuit recipe using flour, banana and peanut butter, and says the peanut butter must be xylitol-free
- It is not suitable for dogs with nut allergies or special diets, and treats should be occasional and small
- Dogs Trust has more recipes on its Christmas page
Lights for dark walks
Be seen when it gets dark early.
Lights for dark walks
What to do
- Blue Cross suggests a flashing or reflective collar or harness, a torch or headlamp, or a light-up ball
- RSPCA says to stick to lit paths and use reflective or LED gear for both of you
- Only let your dog off the lead in a familiar, enclosed area away from roads
A winter coat
Only if your dog needs one.
A winter coat
What to do
- RSPCA says some dogs need a winter coat, including older dogs, young dogs, and dogs with thin or short fur
- A coat should be snug but not restrict movement, according to RSPCA
- Blue Cross says individual dogs vary, so watch how yours copes
Gifts that give back
No dog at home needed.
Gifts that give back
What to do
- Dogs Trust suggests sponsoring a dog as a gift, which supports dogs in its care
- Its Christmas gift guide has presents for dogs and for dog lovers, with proceeds supporting dogs
- Dogs Trust says sponsoring gives the recipient a new pup pal
Presents are ideas, not recommendations. A toy that suits one dog may not suit another, so choose for your dog’s size and chewing style.
Before you decide
Thinking of a dog for Christmas?
Dogs Trust suggests asking these ten questions first. They apply to a puppy, a rescue dog and a dog for someone else.
Do I have the time?
Dogs need company, plus time for training, play and walks.
Will I plan my time around them?
Spontaneous trips get harder, and dogs like a steady routine.
Do I have the patience?
Puppies and adopted dogs both need time to settle and learn.
Can I meet all their needs?
A suitable home, daily care, exercise and mental enrichment.
Can I commit long-term?
Think about children, moving, jobs and travel.
Can I afford a dog?
Food, kit, grooming, insurance, vet care, training and care when away.
Is it for the right reasons?
Not an impulse buy, or a gift that might be given up.
Would another pet suit me better?
Think about everyone in the home, and any visitors.
Will my current pets accept a dog?
Not every dog gets along with every animal.
Should I foster first?
Fostering is a useful trial, especially for first-time owners.
Source: Dogs Trust, Should I get a dog? 10 questions to ask yourself.
Christmas walks
Winter walks over the holidays
Short days and cold weather change how you walk your dog.
Stick to lit paths, with reflective or LED gear on you both
Watch for a dog that is cold, and consider a snug coat if they need one
Wipe paws, pads and tummy after walks, to remove grit, salt and antifreeze
Keep off frozen ponds and lakes, and keep your dog on the lead near them
Sources: RSPCA, winter and cold weather care for dogs; Blue Cross, dogs in winter. RSPCA says antifreeze can cause kidney failure and death, and Blue Cross says that if your dog goes onto ice, do not follow them.
Christmas away
Spending Christmas away with your dog
Dogs Trust lists cottages, hotels and B&Bs, holiday park caravans or lodges, log cabins and yurts as dog-friendly options. Check these before you book.
Tell them you are bringing a dog, and check their dog policy
Ask what they provide, such as beds, bowls and where to toilet
Find the nearest emergency vet and the out-of-hours number
Pack their usual food, bed, medication, lead and ID tag
Keep food, walks and toilet times close to normal
Never leave your dog alone in a car
Sources: Dogs Trust, a guide to dog friendly holidays; RSPCA, taking your pet on holiday. Dogs Trust says some places charge a small fee for a dog, and that you should not leave your dog alone for long periods in unfamiliar accommodation. RSPCA says to think about your dog’s temperament, because some dogs may be too stressed by new places and it may be kinder to leave them at home. Beyond that, I would also check how many dogs are allowed, whether dogs can go upstairs or on the furniture, and whether the garden is fully fenced. That last part is my suggestion, not from the sources.
Looking for somewhere to stay? These are places to start. Always check the property’s own dog policy before you book.
Listings are not a recommendation of any property or company.
When the day is over
Boxing Day to New Year
The risks do not stop on 25 December. Here is what to keep an eye on until the new year.
Tidy up
RSPCA says to put bones straight into outdoor bins, and warns that mouldy leftovers can cause vomiting, tremors and seizures. Clear wrapping, ribbons, silica gel sachets and loose batteries too.
Keep watching
RSPCA says dried fruit can cause kidney failure within 24 to 72 hours, and that anaemia from onions or garlic may only appear days later. Ring your vet if you are worried.
Back to routine
Dogs Trust says to keep to your normal mealtimes and exercise, especially on days with guests. A quiet retreat helps if visitors stay on.
Check the toys
Dogs Trust suggests taking away small parts your dog has pulled off a soft toy and swapping them for a treat. RSPCA says small toys can block the stomach or intestines.
New Year fireworks
GOV.UK says fireworks may go on until 1am on New Year’s Eve. Dogs Trust says fireworks are unlikely to be isolated to one night, so plan a safe space and a daylight walk.
Sources: RSPCA, Christmas dangers for pets; Dogs Trust, Christmas advice for dog owners, enrichment activities and supporting your dog during fireworks; GOV.UK, fireworks: the law.
Quick answers
Can my dog have some Christmas dinner?
RSPCA says dogs should mostly stick to their normal food. Blue Cross lists plain turkey without skin or bones, and plain carrots, peas, parsnips, sprouts and swede, as fine in small amounts if your dog is healthy and not allergic, and says to add new foods slowly. Skip gravy, stuffing, pigs in blankets and anything with onion or garlic.
What if my dog has eaten chocolate or raisins?
RSPCA says go to a vet immediately, bring a sample or the packaging, and do not try to make your dog sick or give salt water. If you cannot reach a vet, RSPCA lists the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000, a 24-hour service for which a fee applies. Do not watch and wait.
Is a real Christmas tree safe?
Blue Cross says pine, fir and spruce are not highly toxic, but the oils and fallen needles can cause problems. Needles can lodge in paws, and eating them can cause stomach upset or a blockage. A non-drop variety is an option, and your dog should never be unsupervised near the tree.
Are advent calendars safe?
Dogs Trust warns that chocolate in advent calendars is easy pickings for dogs, so keep them out of reach. Dog advent calendars exist, and Dogs Trust’s gift guide lists one, so check the ingredients and feed it as part of your dog’s daily allowance.
Should I dress my dog up?
Blue Cross says not to, as it can be stressful. A homemade present is an alternative.
How do I keep my dog calm with visitors?
Keep to your dog’s routine, give them a quiet place with a bed, water and familiar toys, and a long-lasting chew when guests arrive. Never leave a child alone with a dog, and teach children to stay calm and leave your dog alone when eating or sleeping, as Dogs Trust says.
Sources
- Dogs Trust, Christmas advice for dog owners (undated)
- Dogs Trust, should I get a dog? 10 questions to ask yourself (undated)
- Dogs Trust, enrichment activities to keep your dog entertained (undated)
- Dogs Trust, presents for pooches and pooch-appreciators (23 November 2025)
- Dogs Trust, our story (1978 slogan)
- RSPCA, Christmas dangers for pets (undated)
- Dogs Trust, a guide to dog friendly holidays (undated)
- RSPCA, taking your pet on holiday (undated)
- Dogs Trust, supporting your dog during fireworks (undated)
- GOV.UK, fireworks: the law
- RSPCA, winter and cold weather care for dogs (undated)
- Blue Cross, Christmas dangers for dogs (last reviewed November 2022)
- Blue Cross, advice for dogs and puppies in winter (reviewed January 2023)
- Blue Cross, toys for your puppy or dog (updated February 2023)
- Blue Cross, how to groom your dog (published July 2017)
- Battersea, Christmas dog treats (updated 3 July 2026)