Has your dog been naughty or nice this year? Regardless of their holiday behavior, all pups deserve a special treat during the Christmas season.
From candy canes to gingerbread houses, there are plenty of festive foods that your furry friend can enjoy.
But before you start sharing your holiday feast with Fido, it’s important to know which items are safe (and tasty) for them to eat.
After all, it is important to keep your dog safe during Christmas as there are a lot of candies and cookies lying around that might upset their tummy.
What holiday foods can dogs eat?
Many popular holiday foods are actually safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Here are some of the best (and most delicious) options:
1. Turkey
Turkey is safe for dogs to eat, as long as it is cooked properly. Avoid giving them raw or undercooked turkey, as this can pose a risk of food poisoning.
When it comes to leftovers, make sure to remove all the bones from the meat before giving it to your dog. Bones can splinter and cause choking or other digestive problems.
If you’re feeding your dog turkey for the first time, start with a small amount to see how they tolerate it. Some dogs may have an upset stomach after eating turkey, so it’s best to introduce it slowly.
2. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are another holiday favorite, and luckily, they’re safe for dogs to eat in moderation.
However, it’s important to avoid giving your pup any cookies that contain raisins or other harmful ingredients like chocolate.
If you’re not sure what’s in your gingerbread cookies, it’s best to err on the side of caution and give them something else instead.
3. Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin is a great source of fiber and beta-carotene, making it a healthy treat for dogs. Just be sure to give your pup pie that doesn’t contain any sugar, spices, or other harmful ingredients.
Sugarless pumpkin puree is a safe and tasty option for pups who want to join in on the holiday fun!
4. Green Beans
Green beans are a healthy and low-calorie option for dogs. They are a great source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and iron.
So feel free to add some green beans to your pup’s Christmas dinner—just make sure they’re cooked and plain (no salt, butter, or seasoning).
5. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are another great source of fiber and vitamins A and C. They’re also relatively low in calories, making them a good treat for dogs who are watching their weight.
As with green beans, sweet potatoes should be cooked and served plain—no salt, sugar, butter, or other seasonings.
6. Carrots
Carrots are a healthy and crunchy treat for dogs. They’re high in fiber and low in calories, making them a great option for pups who are watching their weight.
Carrots are also packed with nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin A, and potassium. To ensure that your pup doesn’t choke on the pieces, it is recommended to chop the carrots.
7. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a tasty and healthy treat for dogs. It’s high in protein and healthy fats, and it also contains antioxidants that can help keep your pup healthy.
Just be sure to choose peanut butter that doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients like sugar or chocolate.
8. Apples
Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. They’re also low in calories, making them a healthy snack option for dogs.
Just be sure to remove the core and seeds before giving an apple to your pup, as they contain harmful toxins that can make them sick.
9. Blueberries
Blueberries are another healthy treat for dogs. They’re rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E.
They are high in fiber too. They’re also low in calories, making them a great snack for pups who are on the obese side.
10. Cranberries
Cranberries are a healthy and festive treat for dogs. They’re high in fiber and antioxidants, and they also contain compounds that can help keep your pup’s urinary tract healthy.
Just be sure to give your dog cranberries that are unsweetened—sugar can cause digestive issues in dogs.
Final Words
Now that you know which Christmas foods are safe for dogs, go ahead and indulge in some holiday cheer with your furry friend!
From candy canes to gingerbread cookies, there are plenty of festive treats that your pup can enjoy this season.
You can also check out the best Christmas dog food recipes that will make them bounce with joy!
So go ahead and indulge in some holiday cheer—your pup will thank you for it!
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