Dog Foods to Avoid at Christmas

There are a number of human foods that should be avoided when it comes to feeding dogs during the holiday season. Some common foods that can be harmful to dogs include:

1. Chocolate: Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate, can be toxic to dogs. It contains a compound called theobromine that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even death in dogs.

2. Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins can be toxic to dogs, causing kidney failure. Even small amounts can be dangerous, so it's important to keep these foods out of reach of dogs.

3. Nuts: Some nuts, such as almonds, macadamia nuts, and walnuts, can be toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal upset, tremors, and other problems.

4. Alcohol: Alcohol can be toxic to dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, coma, and even death.

5. Onions and garlic: Both onions and garlic contain compounds that can be toxic to dogs and can cause anemia and other health problems.

6. Fatty foods: Foods that are high in fat, such as gravy, stuffing, and rich desserts, can cause pancreatitis in dogs. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care.

It's important to keep these and other potentially harmful foods out of reach of dogs during the holiday season. Instead, offer your dog healthy treats that are specifically formulated for dogs. If you're unsure about whether a food is safe for your dog, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian.