Holiday foods that are dangerous for dogs

From Thanksgiving through New Year's, Houston kitchens are full of turkey, brisket, tamales, pecan pie and cookie tins, and full of guests who want to slip the dog "just a bite." Some holiday foods are harmless in small amounts. Others can make a dog seriously sick. Knowing which holiday foods are dangerous for dogs, and having a plan if your dog gets into something, can keep the season from ending with an emergency vet visit.

The most dangerous holiday foods for dogs

Chocolate and cocoa

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs process much more slowly than people. Dark chocolate, baking chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous. Watch for:

• Boxes of chocolates under the tree or wrapped as gifts
• Brownies, fudge and chocolate pie
• Hot cocoa mix
• Advent calendars

Xylitol (birch sugar)

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in some sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and even some peanut butters. It can be very dangerous for dogs, even in small amounts. Check labels, and keep guests' purses and coat pockets off the floor, since gum and mints often hide there.

Grapes, raisins and currants

These can cause serious kidney problems in some dogs, and there's no known safe amount. Watch fruitcake, stollen, raisin bread, trail mix and fruit platters.

Onions, garlic, leeks and chives

All members of the onion family can damage a dog's red blood cells, whether raw, cooked or powdered. They're in a lot of holiday dishes:

• Stuffing and dressing
• Gravy
• Green bean casserole
• Seasoned meats and many dips

Cooked bones

Cooked turkey, chicken and ham bones can splinter. They can injure the mouth, throat or intestines, or cause a blockage. Take the carcass straight out to an outdoor trash can with a secure lid.

Fatty foods

Turkey skin, ham fat, brisket trimmings, gravy and buttery sides can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious inflammation. Many vets see pancreatitis cases rise after holiday meals. In Texas, where a holiday table may include smoked brisket or a fried turkey, the fat trimmings are a real risk.

Alcohol and raw dough

Alcohol is dangerous to dogs even in small amounts, so watch eggnog, punch and drinks left on low tables. Raw yeast dough can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol as it ferments.

Macadamia nuts and moldy nuts

Macadamia nuts can make dogs weak and wobbly. Moldy or spoiled nuts, including pecans that have been sitting out, can also be harmful. Keep nut bowls and pecan pie out of reach.

Houston holiday favorites to watch

Some local traditions come with their own risks:

Foods that are usually fine in small amounts

If you want to share, a few plain options are generally safe for many healthy dogs in small amounts:

• Plain, cooked turkey breast with no skin, bones or seasoning
• Plain cooked green beans or carrots
• Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling)

Check with your vet first if your dog has a sensitive stomach, food allergies or a health condition. Even safe foods can upset a stomach if it's a big change.

How to keep your dog safe during holiday gatherings

1. Tell your guests. Ask everyone, especially kids, not to feed the dog.
2. Use a safe room. During the meal, give your dog a quiet room or crate with a chew or food puzzle.
3. Clear plates fast. Don't leave dishes on low tables or the edge of the counter.
4. Secure the trash. Bones, foil and string from roasts smell irresistible.
5. Watch the gifts. Wrapped food gifts under the tree are easy for a dog to find by smell.
6. Keep your dog's routine. Regular meals and walks help them be less interested in your plate.

If your dog boards during the holidays

Many Houston families board their dog while they travel or host. If your dog stays with us, bring their regular food. A familiar diet helps avoid upset stomachs, and please don't send holiday leftovers or rich treats in the bag. Our packing list for dog boarding covers what to bring, and our guide to booking holiday dog boarding early explains holiday deposits and our seven-day cancellation window. For details on overnight care, see dog boarding in Houston.

New Year's Eve also brings fireworks. If your dog is noise sensitive, read our guide to fireworks anxiety in dogs.

What to do if your dog eats something dangerous

1. Stay calm and act fast. Move your dog away from the food.
2. Figure out what and how much. Grab the wrapper or package if you can, and note the time.
3. Call for help right away. Call your vet or an emergency vet clinic. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. A consultation fee may apply.
4. Don't make your dog vomit unless a professional tells you to. Some substances do more damage coming back up.

Don't wait for symptoms. With some toxins, like xylitol and grapes, early treatment matters most.

This is general information, not veterinary advice. Your vet knows your dog's health best. Hours and rates for Pawliday Inn are on our homepage.

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog eat turkey?

A little plain, cooked turkey breast without skin, bones or seasoning is generally fine for many healthy dogs. Skip the skin, gravy and stuffing, and never give cooked bones.

How much chocolate is dangerous for a dog?

It depends on the type of chocolate and your dog's size. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. Call your vet or a poison control line right away rather than guessing.

Are tamales bad for dogs?

The husks can cause choking or blockages, and fillings are often fatty and seasoned with onion and garlic. Keep tamales out of reach.

What if my dog ate something and seems fine?

Call your vet or a pet poison control line anyway. Some toxins don't cause signs for hours.