Dogs and Christmas, two of our favourite things. Whether a long walk on frosty morning, a curious nose helping us unwrap our presents or long snoozes on the sofa, it's just not the same without our beloved pups.
We’d all love our dogs to join us at the table and treat them to the same delicious food we enjoy. Unfortunately, Christmas dinner isn't as good for dogs as it is for us humans.
Is Christmas food a healthy dog food?
Unfortunately, it is not. As difficult as it is to resist the puppy dog eyes, dogs can't eat the same as us. Over generations of evolution, their digestive systems have developed differently. Certain vegetables and meats can be enjoyed in moderation, but there are also lots of ingredients that dogs should avoid. To keep it simple, you can always serve up a bowl of their favourite healthy dog food instead of sharing yours.
If we fed our dogs the same Christmas dinner we enjoy, they’d have too many calories and may end up with an upset stomach. The typical festive dinner contains some foods that are poisonous too. Sadly, our Christmas meal isn't the healthy puppy food your dog would love it to be.
Lots will be just as happy with a brand new chew toy, belly scratch, ear rub or any other fuss. For those dogs who are real foodies, you could try a few of their favourite kibble instead.
What about other feeding times that day?
If you do choose to treat your dog to a little extra outside of feeding time, proportionally reduce how much you feed during their main meals. It keeps their calory intake in check to help with weight management.
Can puppies eat christmas dinner?
Puppies need a finely balanced diet of protein, nutrients and calories to help them grow. Unfortunately, a Christmas meal cooked for humans doesn’t do their little tummies any good and can contain ingredients that aren't good for puppies. We don't recommend feeding puppies Christmas dinner. But there are lots of other ways you can spoil your puppy at Christmas time.
What can my dog eat?
This is the important part. While your dog may be eyeing up everything on your plate, there are a few things you could sneak over the side in small amounts without doing them any harm. Not a complete meal; more of a little treat. Some of which are included in healthy food for dogs. All the below need to be served with no seasoning, glaze, oil or butter.
- Lean parts of white meat (no bones, just the meat)
- Carrot
- Parsnips
- Cauliflower
- Peas
- Brocolli
- Brussel sprouts
What can't my dog eat?
The following foods are either poisonous or unhealthy for dogs. All of the below should only be enjoyed by humans.
- Cheese sauce
- Vegetables and meat fried or roasted in fat or oils
- Bacon
- Turkey or chicken skin
- Cooked bones
- Pigs in blankets
- Garlic
- Onions
- Raisins
- Mince pies
Other christmas presents
If Christmas dinner is off the cards for your dog, then there are plenty of other options to consider. As mentioned, dogs will be just as happy with a nice long walk, a toy or some extra festive attention. We’ve listed some of our products that make the perfect Christmas gift for our pups.
- Sustainably sourced natural rubber ball.
- Natural rubber stick, a popular choice for all dogs.
- Hemp rope tiger toy, the ultimate Christmas companion.
- Bamboo bowl, make feeding time a bit more special.
We hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
