It's that time of year again! The infographics are popping up all over our social media feeds, and a quick web search will give you countless lists of holiday foods that are safe for dogs and those that aren't.
I'll share some of my favorites below because there really isn't a need to reinvent what has already been done well!
But here's my take on the topic.
The bigger question is what foods are safe for YOUR dog.
We spend a lot of time talking about foods dogs should and shouldn't eat, especially around the holidays. And rightfully so! We want to keep our four-legged family members safe but I think there's another piece of this conversation that often gets overlooked.
Just because a food is considered safe for dogs in general doesn't automatically mean it's a good choice for every dog. As you enter the holiday season and your dog is staring you down wanting a morsel, keep in mind your dog's current health and dietary needs.
Both of my dogs are on prescription diets for very different GI issues. Neither one of them will get to participate in the holiday meal. They may get a piece of something that fits within their limits or the SMALLEST piece of turkey. I won't share anything with them that I know will eventually make them sick.
They might get a green bean or two, maybe a cranberry, or something else I know they can tolerate. I'd much rather have two dogs looking at me with those familiar puppy-dog eyes than spend the evening dealing with upset stomachs, diarrhea, or a potential trip to the emergency vet.
Safe Doesn't Always Mean Suitable
This is probably the most important thing I want people to take away from this article. There are plenty of foods that are generally safe for dogs but may not be appropriate for your individual dog.
Think about it:
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs: Even a small amount of a new food can trigger digestive upset.
- Dogs with gastrointestinal conditions: Certain foods, especially those higher in fat or fiber, may aggravate existing issues.
- Dogs on prescription diets: Adding foods outside their prescribed diet could interfere with the nutritional plan your veterinarian has established.
- Dogs with food allergies or intolerances: A seemingly harmless ingredient could cause itching, digestive problems, or other reactions.
- Senior dogs: Age-related health concerns, dental issues, and changes in digestion may affect what foods they can comfortably tolerate.
- Dogs managing their weight: Holiday extras can add up quickly, even when the foods themselves are considered healthy.
And let's not forget that some dogs simply don't tolerate certain foods as well as others. Just like people, dogs are individuals!
Don't Forget About the Extras!
Sometimes it's not the main ingredient that causes the problem. It's everything we add to make our holiday meals taste delicious. A plain green bean is one thing. A green bean covered in cream sauce, butter, and crispy fried onions is another. The same goes for turkey, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, and other holiday favorites.
If you're considering sharing a little something with your dog, think about how it was prepared. Seasonings, sauces, butter, oils, and other additions can turn an otherwise appropriate food into something your dog shouldn't have. And remember, bones, fatty scraps, and rich leftovers aren't worth the risk.
Ways to Include them in Dinner
If you want to include your dog in dinner do so but within their limitations. If there is a prescription diet they are on, use a small topper of a plain green bean or cooked potato. Whatever is a bit special for them but benign to their diet. Look at the label of their food and see the ingredients, and include a fresh version of an ingredient if possible.
I'll leave the food safety infographics to the experts and share a few of my favorites below. They're great resources to keep handy, especially when family and friends are visiting and everyone wants to sneak the dog a little something under the table.
But I want you to remember one thing:
Don't just ask whether a food is safe for dogs. Ask whether it's safe for YOUR dog.
Know your dog's health history. Respect their dietary restrictions. Consider their individual sensitivities. And when you're unsure, check with your veterinarian before offering something new.
Our dogs don't know they're missing out on the mashed potatoes or turkey stuffing. They just know they're spending another holiday surrounded by the people they love.
And honestly, that's what matters most.
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and dog-safe holiday season!
