Raw Pet Food Expert Reveals the ONE Thing that You Should Never Give Your Dog this Christmas

Christmas is a time of togetherness, indulgence, and celebration, and for many families, that includes their beloved pets. As dogs eagerly wag their tails at the smell of roasted turkey and festive dishes, it’s tempting to share the festive cheer with them at the dinner table. But not all festive foods are safe for our furry friends.

To ensure your dog has a joyful and safe Christmas, Georgia Toffolo, Founder of premium raw pet food brand, WiLD PACK, shares 6 dos and don’ts of a dog-friendly Christmas dinner:

Do: Choose Lean, Plain Proteins

“Give your dog lean, boneless cuts of white turkey meat as a festive treat. Turkey is a healthy, nutritious option for dogs when prepared without added seasonings, gravy, or sauces. Ensure the portion size is appropriate for your dog’s breed and size.”

Don’t: Avoid Skin and Cooked Bones
“Turkey skin is high in fat and can upset your dog’s stomach. Never give your dog cooked turkey bones, as they can splinter and cause severe internal injuries so stick to safe, boneless options.”

Do: Add Festive Veggies (But Keep Them Simple)

“Incorporate dog-safe vegetables like parsnips and carrots into your dog’s festive meal. These veggies are low-calorie, healthy treats that help your dog feel part of the celebration.”

Don’t: Use Oils, Salt, or Sauces
“Avoid preparing vegetables with oils, salt, or sauces, as these can upset your dog’s stomach and lead to digestive issues. Serve them plain and in moderation.”

Do: Practice Portion Control

“Offer your dog small, appropriately-sized treats tailored to their breed and size. A little indulgence can make them feel included in the festivities without overwhelming their system.”

Don’t: Overfeed Your Dog
“Even healthy foods in large amounts can cause digestive upset. Stick to small portions and avoid giving full servings to maintain your dog’s health and happiness.”

Do: Avoid Dangerous Festive Foods

“Stick to dog-friendly foods like lean turkey and safe veggies, served plain and unseasoned, to keep your dog’s festive experience safe and enjoyable.”

Don’t: Let Your Dog Eat Harmful Foods
“Keep chocolate, sweets, alcohol, cooked bones, and heavily seasoned dishes out of reach. These foods can cause anything from mild digestive issues to serious health problems.”

Do: Watch for Allergic Reactions

“When introducing new foods, monitor your dog closely for any signs of allergies or sensitivities, such as itching, vomiting, or diarrhea.”

Don’t: Ignore Potential Reactions
“If you notice any unusual behaviour or symptoms, stop feeding the new food immediately and consult your vet for advice.”

Do: Supervise and Engage

“Stay with your dog while they enjoy their festive meal to ensure they’re eating safely and not sneaking harmful table scraps. Take this opportunity to bond and make the meal a special occasion.”

Don’t: Leave Your Dog Unattended
“Avoid leaving your dog alone with food or letting them roam freely around the dinner table. This can lead to them eating something harmful or causing digestive issues.”

Georgia adds: “Dogs are part of the family, and Christmas is a time to celebrate together, but it’s vital to ensure they’re eating what’s good for them.

“By offering safe, nutritious options, pet owners can give their dogs a festive treat without compromising their health.”