Holiday Hazards: Dangerous Foods, Decorations, and More

The Holidays Are Fun, but Full of Hidden Dangers

The holiday season brings festive lights, delicious meals, and joyful gatherings. But for dogs, it also introduces a long list of potential hazards. From toxic foods to risky decorations, the excitement of the season can quickly become dangerous without a plan in place.

At OffLeash SoCal, we see a noticeable increase in preventable dog emergencies this time of year. Many incidents happen because dogs are naturally curious and owners are understandably distracted. Awareness and preparation are your best tools to keep your dog safe throughout the holiday season.

Hazard 1: Holiday Foods That Can Harm

With all the incredible smells coming from the kitchen, it is no surprise that dogs want to taste everything. Unfortunately, many holiday favorites are unsafe or toxic to dogs.

Common Dangerous Foods:

• Chocolate of any kind

• Grapes and raisins

• Stuffing and gravy containing onions or garlic

• Ham and fatty meats that cause pancreatitis

• Alcohol from spilled drinks or desserts

• Sugar free snacks containing xylitol

• Baked goods with nutmeg

Safer holiday alternatives include plain cooked turkey, sweet potatoes, and green beans without seasoning. Always supervise your dog around food and keep countertops clean.

If you want more insight into maintaining consistency and preventing bad habits around food, the American Kennel Club’s guide on the dos and donts of effective training is a useful resource for avoiding temptation related behaviors.

Hazard 2: Decorations That Can Attract Curious Dogs

Holiday decorations may look beautiful to humans, but they can appear like toys or chew items to dogs.

High risk decorations include:

• Glass ornaments that can shatter

• Tinsel and ribbon that cause intestinal blockages

• Tree stands with treated water

• Potpourri and scented oils

• Electric string lights

• Holiday candles

• Snow globes containing toxic chemicals

Keep decorations above nose level and secure your tree if you have a dog that enjoys exploring. Any cords should be tucked away or covered.

Hazard 3: Guests and Holiday Chaos

Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for dogs. Visitors bring noise, unfamiliar scents, and unpredictable activity. This combination can lead to stress, anxiety, or door dashing.

To prevent issues:

• Practice the place command before guests arrive.

• Keep your dog leashed or gated when the door opens.

• Provide a quiet retreat such as a crate or separate room.

• Ask guests not to feed your dog without permission.

• Supervise children closely around your dog.

Our post on dog parks vs structured play explains why controlled engagement leads to calmer behavior, especially in busy holiday environments.

Hazard 4: Cold Weather and Outdoor Risks

Even in Southern California, the holiday season can bring chilly mornings, rain, and unexpected wind. Outdoor risks include slippery surfaces, contaminated puddles, and low visibility during early evening walks.

Stay safe by:

• Using reflective gear during nighttime walks

• Keeping dogs warm and dry when temperatures drop

• Avoiding puddles that may contain chemicals

• Towel drying your dog after wet weather

Short, structured walks paired with indoor obedience practice can help maintain good behavior without extensive outdoor outings.

Holiday Safety Checklist

Use this checklist to prevent accidents and ensure a safe holiday season.

Holiday Dog Safety Checklist:

• Keep toxic foods and leftovers out of reach.

• Secure your Christmas tree to avoid tipping.

• Avoid tinsel, ribbons, and edible decorations.

• Store presents in areas your dog cannot access.

• Supervise your dog around guests.

• Maintain daily obedience routines.

• Provide mental enrichment when guests visit.

• Keep emergency vet numbers accessible.

Small steps like these can prevent major hazards.

Obedience Training for Seasonal Success

Obedience skills become even more valuable during the holidays. Commands like place, leave it, and stay help protect your dog and reduce stress when distractions spike. Consistent training keeps your dog grounded among the excitement.

If you want structured guidance to help your dog behave reliably in busy environments, our Dog Obedience Training programs at OffLeash SoCal are tailored for real world situations.

For deeper insight into shaping dependable behavior year round, visit our article on the ultimate guide to obedience training at every stage of life.

FAQ: Holiday Dog Safety

Q: Can dogs have turkey during the holidays?

Yes, but only plain, cooked turkey without seasoning, skin, or bones.

Q: How do I stop my dog from eating ornaments?

Use baby gates, supervise closely, and provide safe chew alternatives.

Q: What should I do if guests stress my dog out?

Give your dog a quiet space or crate to decompress and practice the place command before gatherings.

Q: Is it safe to leave dogs alone with decorations?

No. Many decorations pose choking, electrical, or poisoning hazards. Always supervise.

Q: How do I prevent counter surfing during holiday cooking?

Teach leave it and use place or down stays to keep your dog out of the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

The holidays should be festive, fun, and safe for every member of your family, including your dog. With a combination of structure, supervision, and obedience, you can help your dog enjoy the season without danger or stress.

If you need help strengthening your dog’s holiday manners or preparing for seasonal challenges, reach out to OffLeash SoCal. Our professional Dog Obedience Training programs are designed to create calm, confident, and reliable dogs all year long.