The Christmas season is a time for family, food and festive fun, and that includes our dogs, too. With all the excitement going on, it’s easy to forget that some parts of the holidays can be a bit overwhelming (and even risky) for our four-legged friends.
At Harringtons, we believe pets are part of the family, and that means looking out for them when life gets busy. So we’ve put together some practical tips to help you create a dog-safe, stress-free Christmas at home.
Keep an eye on the Christmas Tree
Let’s be honest, most dogs are curious. A decorated tree in the living room is bound to catch their attention.
To avoid any wobbly accidents or broken baubles, make sure your tree is sturdy and secure. Skip the tinsel (tempting but risky if chewed) and go for dog-safe decorations that won’t smash or cause trouble if knocked off a branch.
Decorate with pets in mind
We all love a bit of sparkle at Christmas, but not all decorations are dog-friendly.
Fairy lights, batteries, and trailing wires can all be dangerous if chewed, so it’s worth keeping them out of reach. Be careful with festive plants, too. Poinsettias, mistletoe and holly look lovely, but they’re toxic to dogs if eaten. Artificial versions are a safer bet.
Wrap gifts the smart way
Presents under the tree are part of the magic, but dogs don’t always know the difference between a toy and a temptation.
Keep wrapping bits like ribbons, bows and tags well out of reach. They can be harmful if swallowed, and even the best-behaved dogs can get carried away when excitement levels rise.
Make a cosy space just for them
Between visitors, music, cooking and general chaos, Christmas can feel a bit much, especially for more sensitive dogs.
Try setting up a quiet spot somewhere in the house where they can relax. comfy bed, their favourite toy, and fresh water go a long way. A natural chew or treats from our Harringtons FreshBakes Treats range can also help them settle.
Treats they can enjoy
It’s no secret that Christmas comes with plenty of tempting smells, and dogs are often first in line, hoping for a taste. But not everything on the table is safe for them.
Foods like chocolate, onions, grapes, garlic and certain nuts can be harmful to dogs, and rich leftovers aren’t much better – they can lead to upset tummies or worse. So while it’s best to keep human food off their menu, that doesn’t mean they have to miss out.
Stick to dog-safe goodies instead – our natural treats make great stocking fillers, and there’s plenty of variety to keep tails wagging.
And if you want them to feel part of the family feast? Dish up one of our wet dog food recipes, full of natural ingredients and big on flavour, without the risks of scraps.
Want to know more about what foods to avoid? Read our guide here.
Keep doors secure
With people coming and going, there’s always a chance a door gets left open, and a dog makes a dash for it.
It’s worth keeping an eye on exits, especially if your dog gets nervous or overstimulated. A baby gate or keeping them in a quieter room during busy times can help. And just in case, make sure their ID tag and microchip details are up to date.
Enjoy a calm & happy Christmas together
With a bit of planning and a few small changes, your home can be both festive and safe for your dog. After all, they’re part of the family, and they deserve to enjoy the season just as much as we do.
At Harringtons, we’re dedicated to helping you give your dog the best, naturally – not just at Christmas, but every day of the year.
Wishing you and your four-legged friend a safe, happy and tail-wagging Christmas.
