Holiday Season with Dogs: Cautionary Advice Regarding Christmas Decorations

As a dog owner, you need to be aware of a few things in order to have a beautiful, reflective Christmas. Certain Christmas decorations are dangerous to dogs. Therefore, it is important to take safety precautions.

They should be extra careful with young, energetic dogs and puppies. The decorations are full of new and exciting impressions, which can attract the dogs’ curiosity. They may want to eat them or disassemble them into their parts. Here are some decorations to keep your eye out for.

Edible Christmas decorations

Christmas curly cookies and chocolate are not good for your dog. They contain too much sugar and fat. Chocolate can cause heart problems and poisoning. Large amounts of chocolate can be deadly. Put the sweets away and give your dog a chewy bone or toy instead. They are more fun and more suitable for dogs.

Dangerous tree decorations

Tinsel and other Christmas decorations can entangle animals and contain toxic lead. When swallowed, lead can cause poisoning, injuries to the internal organs, and even a dangerous blockage of the intestine. When played with, glass or porcelain Christmas balls can break and cause serious injury to dogs. Place fragile Christmas decorations away from your dog. If you want to be safe, non-hazardous Christmas ornaments made from wood and straw will do the trick.

Other Christmas Hazards

Spray snow can be toxic for dogs, so you should avoid it. You should be extra careful when using candles. Your dog may get too close and burn. You can also use electric fairy lights. Make sure they are placed in a way that your dog cannot chew them and be electrocuted.

Be careful when using wrapping paper and ribbon. If your dog eats them, they can be dangerous. Keep an eye on your dog and immediately put away the wrapping paper or ribbon after wrapping your presents.