Christmas is a time for family gatherings and feasts. Of course, some of us can’t resist the urge to feed our dogs so that they don’t feel left out from the festivities. Even so, there are foods that can harm dogs even if they are safe for us humans.
Chocolate-based desserts, like chocolate cake, are harmful to dogs because of theobromine. This is used medicinally as a heart stimulant and a smooth muscle relaxant. While this is safe for humans, it’s toxic for dogs because they can’t metabolize it. For them, it can cause vomiting and other symptoms like hyperirritability, excessive panting, and muscle twitching.
If this is your first holiday with your pets, it might be a good time to check in advance on what they can and can’t eat.
1. Turkey (White meat only)
Turkey is ideal for feeding to dogs. It’s high in protein and has a balanced fat content. However, when feeding this, be sure that you only give them the white meat. Leave out the turkey skin as this is high in cholesterol and can harm your dog’s health.
It also isn’t safe to give your dog turkey bones to chew, as bones can turn brittle during the cooking process and can break if your dog chews on them. This can also run the risk of bone fragments stuck in your dog’s throat, or stomach lacerations if these are swallowed.
2. Salmon
While not a traditional Christmas staple, Salmon is rich in protein and has Omega-3 fatty acids which have a variety of benefits for dogs. Chief among these is that dogs get a healthy skin and a shiny coat that any pet owner can be proud of.
Another type of these Omega-3 fatty acids is also responsible for being the building blocks found in the brain. Having sufficient amounts may help with maintain healthy eyesight and make your dogs more responsive to your commands.
3. Vegetables (except onions and garlic)
Peas, Spinach, Carrots, and Green Beans are perfect accompaniments to the meat you can serve your dogs. These are all Vitamin-rich vegetables that can complement the protein that they get.
Onions, Garlic, and Shallots must be avoided at all costs. These are toxic to dogs in large amounts and can cause vomiting and an elevated heart rate. It’s best to check if your Christmas dinners will be cooked with these ingredients so that you can avoid giving them to your pets. Even if you will be feeding them Turkey, it’s best to avoid doing so if they were prepared with these vegetables.
4. Pumpkin
While serving the spiced or sweetened variety is inadvisable due to indigestion risks, fresh Pumpkin is easy to digest and a great healthy snack for dogs. It’s packed with Vitamin A for eyesight and is rich in fiber to aid digestion.
Keep in mind that Pumpkin used in pies has added fats, sugar, and spices like Ginger, and Cinnamon which can be toxic for your dogs. Only use the fresh or cooked variety when feeding this to them.
While Christmas can be a great time to relax with friends and family, there’s no reason to leave pets out of the festivities. These foods are a great way for them to enjoy being with you at the table safely too.
– Addiction Pet Foods
