Christmas Dangers for Dogs 2025: Here are 8 festive foods your dog mustn't eat - and 7 they can

With so many dishes on the table, it can be hard for owners to know what is harmless and what might cause trouble.

To help, Dog Friendly Retreats has brought together a clear mix of well-known risks and lesser-known festive surprises, followed by a calm list of foods that dogs can safely enjoy in small portions.

Here’s what you need to know.

What not to share with your dog at Christmas

Stuffing

A classic Christmas danger that might be easy to overlook, but stuffing often hides onion, garlic, and rich seasoning. Even small amounts can make dogs unwell, particularly for small dogs, so it is safest to keep this dish well out of reach.

Chocolate

A common risk that rises every December, especially with presents under the tree and selection packs on side tables, make it easy for dogs to eat something dangerous without being seen.

Christmas pudding and mince pies

These treats contain raisins, sultanas, alcohol, and spices. Even the smallest amount can be harmful for dogs, so none of these should ever be shared.

Cranberry sauce

Many people assume this is safe because cranberries themselves are harmless, but shop bought sauces are heavy in sugar and sometimes mixed with grape juice. This makes them unsafe for dogs.

Nutmeg

A surprising one but nutmeg appears in cakes, custards, and even vegetable dishes. Dogs react badly to the compound in nutmeg, so avoid anything seasoned with it.

Glazed vegetables

Plain carrots and parsnips are fine, but the Christmas versions are often covered in honey, butter, or sugar. These rich coatings can upset a dog’s stomach and lead to a not so fun Boxing Day.

Cold cuts and cured meats

Leftover ham, honey roasted slices, and salted meats look tempting but the salt and added sugars make them unsuitable for dogs. It’s always best to reserve a little bit of unseasoned meat if you do want to share with your dog.

Cooked bones

Another common oversight but a particularly dangerous element of Christmas cooking is cooked bones from turkey or chicken. These bones can splinter and cause serious injury, so they must never be given as a festive treat no matter how cute the puppy eyes are.

Read more: Healthy Dogs 2025: Here are the 16 breeds of adorable dog likely to need fewest pricey vet visits - including the Beagle

Christmas foods dogs can enjoy in small, simple portions

Turkey breast

Plain white meat with no skin, bones, or seasoning is gentle and safe in small servings. Avoid darker meat and anything cooked in rich juices.

Carrots

Steamed or raw carrots make a sweet and healthy snack and many dogs absolutely love them. Raw carrots especially.

Peas

A spoonful of plain peas is fine for most dogs but use a portion before butter or seasoning is added.

Boiled or mashed potatoes

Plain potatoes are safe when served without salt, cream, milk, or gravy but a small spoonful is enough to share with your four legged friend.

Green beans

Soft, plain green beans are light and easy to digest and they work well as a safe extra when the table is crowded with richer dishes.

Plain pumpkin or squash

If part of your Christmas dinner includes roasted squash, a small unseasoned piece can be shared. Pumpkin is gentle on the stomach.

Brussels sprouts

A surprise addition. Plain steamed sprouts are safe in very small amounts. Some dogs may get a bit windy, so keep the portion tiny if you’d like to enjoy your Christmas afternoon.

Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.