Q&A with our Veterinary Expert Paul Aggarwal

Q: What are the most dangerous Christmas foods for dogs?

The big ones at Christmas for me are Chocolate, raisins and sultanas, but also anything with onions or garlic (including leek/chives/spring onion etc.)

Chocolate of any kind can be dangerous to your dog. The higher the percentage of cocoa, the more dangerous it is and so be extra careful with cakes that contain cocoa and especially with any form of dark chocolate. Milk chocolate can still be dangerous though and so it is best to not have any chocolate left out where your dog can reach it.

(Don’t forget those advent calendars!) Raisins/sultanas/grapes can be highly toxic to any dog and even one grape or raisin can be dangerous so that included mince pies too. Onion and garlic are also very bad, so watch out for stuffing or any leftovers you think might have these ingredients in them.

Q: Do you think dogs mind being dressed up?

I think every dog is quite different when it comes to ‘dressing up’. Dogs that are used to wearing coats to go outside might not mind a Christmas jumper, but I would avoid putting things around their head and near their ears and eyes.

Ps. Don’t forget that a dog may overheat if they have an outfit on indoors, especially when we are all snuggly with the heating on.

Q: Are there any festive plants that are dangerous?

There are some plants that may be in your house at Christmas that can be risky for dogs, for example poinsettias, holly and mistletoe. Many plant berries, leaves and bulbs can cause havoc with a dogs tummy, and the last thing that anyone needs at Christmas is dog vomiting and diarrhoea!

Ps. Don’t forget to keep Christmas decorations on your Christmas tree out of reach of your inquisitive pet. Dogs love to hold baubles in their mouth which can be very risky indeed, especially if they are glass. They may also swallow some tinsel which can cause gut issues or obstructions.

Q: How can I keep my dog calm at Christmas?

Don’t forget that, just like us, dogs love a routine and this may go out the window at Christmas time. Whilst some dogs may revel in this festive and fun atmosphere, others may get anxious, so it’s important to monitor your dogs for stress and give them time away from all of the action. Try and make a quiet place in the house where they can go and hide away, or take them on a quiet walk. Some signs of stress to look for include - yawning, lip licking, ears pinned back, tail tucked and showing more of the whites of their eyes. If you see any of these, then try and give your dog some space and some quiet time.

Q: Who can I call in an emergency or out of hours?

The vet who you are registered with will always have arrangements for emergencies and out of hours care, even on Christmas Day.

There are also now some mobile vets who will come to your home out of hours. It is best to Google options in your area if needed.

Q: Do dogs like Brussel spouts?!

Hmmmmm. Well, I think I will have to say that, just like with people, some will love them and some will hate them. There is no harm in giving it a go with a small piece to see what they think.

Maybe they will love them and take them off the hands of those who are a little less keen!

Q: And finally, Paul, do they know it’s Christmas?!

You know what, I believe that dogs are incredibly intuitive. I am not sure that they know it is Christmas, but they can see when people are having fun or are a bit stressed out. They can sense joy and happiness and will often respond well to these emotions.

So if they want to, let them join the fun, festivities and family time.

Ps. They may not know it is Christmas, but they will love a little pressie as much as you or I!