Holiday Safety Guide 2025

The holidays are a fun and exciting time for us—and for our dogs—especially when family and guests are around. However, things can quickly take a turn for the worse if a dog laps up alcohol or accidentally consumes a caffeinated product. And if your dog struggles with territorial aggression, the situation becomes even more complicated.

Dog Aggression

If you have a fearful, territorial, or aggressive dog who has not undergone behavior modification, it’s important to take extra precautions when having guests over.

If you’re unsure whether your dog may act aggressively—or if they have shown aggression in the past—the best way to avoid an incident is to create a safe zone. This could be a crate or pen placed in a locked, quiet room where your dog can relax away from guests. Think about how you might feel when a loud, obnoxious cousin comes over—now imagine that feeling amplified. That’s often how dogs experience crowded, noisy gatherings.

If your dog is generally okay with guests but is fearful or prefers solitude, you can allow them to roam initially and provide breaks in a locked room, with or without a crate. Playing calming classical music can help them relax during these downtime periods.

If your dog is food aggressive, be sure to inform guests to stay away from food bowls, treats, and feeding areas.

For dogs that are fearful of strangers, instruct guests not to corner them, pat them on the head, or put their face close to the dog’s face. These actions can feel threatening and may result in a bite. Guests should allow the dog to approach them on their own terms. If the dog is not a known biter, guests may gently offer treats to help build positive associations.

If your dog has territorial aggression and a history of biting, it may be safest to have them stay in a familiar, low-stress environment during gatherings—such as a parent’s or sibling’s home—where they feel comfortable and secure.

  Is your Dog an Escape Artist ?

For Escape Artists & Wanderers

If you have a dog that is an escape artist or prone to wandering, everyone in the household—and all guests—should be mindful of where pets are before opening any outside doors. Doors should be closed quickly and never left open, even for a moment.

During parties or gatherings, keep dogs confined to a quiet, secure room that remains locked to prevent accidental escapes.

Playing calming classical music or DogTV can help reduce anxiety and keep dogs relaxed while separated from the activity.

Make sure your dog is microchipped and that all contact information is current.

Important Note:
If your dog must wear a collar indoors, use a breakaway collar with up-to-date contact and health information attached. Adding a GPS tracker is highly recommended and can be lifesaving in the event your dog escapes.

 If you have Family/Friends in your Home, enforce the following Rules 

House Rules for Our Dog’s Safety

• No feeding the dog. Guests may not offer food or treats at any time.

• Do not leave food unattended. Food must not be placed on coffee tables, end tables, counters, or anywhere within paw’s reach.

• Keep purses and bags secured. All bags must be closed and kept out of reach, as they may contain toxic medications, supplements, or beauty products.

• Ask before interacting. Please do not approach, pet, or call the dog over unless the owner says it’s okay.

• Doors stay closed. Be mindful when entering or exiting—outside doors should never be left open.

 Dangerous Holiday Foods/Drinks that Dogs should Not Consume

🚫 Dangerous Foods – Do NOT Feed the Dog

• Fatty foods (including bacon)

• Spicy foods

• Grapes and raisins

• Sugar-free candy or gum (contains xylitol)

• Chocolate

• Alcohol

• Onions and garlic

• Macadamia nuts

• Nutmeg

• Raw dough (can expand in the stomach)

If you suspect your dog has ingested any of these foods or another toxin, contact an animal poison control hotline immediately, available 24/7.

Important Note:
There may be a small fee when calling an animal poison control hotline, but it is well worth it for fast, expert guidance that could save your dog’s life.

 Be Prepared in the event of an Accidental Poisoning

⚠️ Emergency Supplies to Have on Hand

• Activated Charcoal
  Keep activated charcoal at home in case a veterinarian or animal poison control expert instructs you to administer it. Activated charcoal adsorbs certain chemicals and toxins and helps move them out of the body through the feces.

• 3% Hydrogen Peroxide (Fresh, Unexpired)
  Have a bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide available in case a veterinarian or poison control expert recommends inducing vomiting. Always check the expiration date before storing or using it.

IMPORTANT:
❗ Do NOT administer activated charcoal or hydrogen peroxide without first consulting a veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Improper use can cause serious harm and may worsen certain toxic exposures.

Other Holiday Dangers

🎄 Holiday Hazards for Dogs

• Christmas tree water
  If ingested, tree water may contain pesticides, fertilizers, or preservatives that can be toxic to pets.

• Evergreen needles
  Swallowed needles can puncture or become lodged in the intestines and may require surgical removal.

• Exposed Christmas tree light cords
  Chewing electrical cords can cause severe burns or electrocution. Use cord covers and secure wires whenever possible.

• Tinsel and ribbon
  If swallowed, these can cause intestinal blockages that often require emergency surgery.

• Toxic holiday plants
  Plants that may be toxic to pets if ingested include:
  Amaryllis, Azaleas, Chrysanthemums, Evergreens, Holly, Ivy, Juniper, Lilies, and Mistletoe.
  Note: Poinsettias may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset but are considered lower in toxicity compared to other holiday plants.