Caring for Dogs at Christmas: Ultimate Guide
Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year, twinkling lights, festive gatherings and winter road trips to visit loved ones. But as joyful as the season is, it can be a little stressful when you’re trying to plan festive family travel and ensure your dog stays safe, happy and part of the fun.
At Barking Mad, we’ve spent nearly twenty years providing chauffeur-driven holiday transport as part of our 5-star rated dog sitting service. Our experience has taught us exactly what dogs need to enjoy a calm and comfortable Christmas, whether they’re travelling with you or enjoying their own little doggy holiday.
This ultimate guide to caring for dogs at Christmas pulls together our top safety tips, festive food advice, travel guidance and more, so you and your pup can enjoy the season with complete peace of mind.
Travelling With Your Dog at Christmas
Organising festive plans can be frantic and travelling with your dog may feel like an added pressure. But with some forward planning, your dog’s Christmas road trip can be an enjoyable part of the celebration.
- Check Whether Your Destination Is Dog Friendly
Before you book anything, always confirm that your dog is welcome:
- Hotels or self-catering stays – check their dog policy.
- Friends or family – ensure no one is allergic and that resident pets will get along.
- Plan Your Journey Well in Advance
Christmas roads are busy, so plan your route and identify safe, dog-friendly stops.
A helpful resource: www.drivingwithdogs.co.uk – ideal for scenic winter walk stop-offs and pet-friendly eateries.
- Put Your Dog’s Safety First
Preparation is essential:
- Pack a torch, blankets and water for emergencies.
- Carry cold-weather essentials (ice scraper, de-icer, etc.).
- Perform winter checks on your vehicle (see RAC winter guidance).
- Follow Highway Code rule 57: ensure your dog is suitably restrained using a seat belt harness, dog guard, crate or carrier.
- Using a Crate in the Car
If using a crate:
- It must allow your dog to stand, turn and lie comfortably.
- It must be securely fastened.
- It should be strong enough to restrain your dog’s weight in an accident.
All Barking Mad vehicles are equipped with safe, comfortable travel spaces because your dog’s welfare is always our top priority.
- Carry a Canine Winter First Aid Kit
A dog-safe kit is essential at this time of year.
See the Blue Cross first aid guidance for detailed advice on what to include.
- Prepare for Emergency Situations
- Ensure your dog wears an ID tag with your mobile number.
- Check their microchip details are up to date.
- Always check the weather forecast before travel.
- Pack a Winter Dog Travel Checklist
Include:
- Collar + ID tag
- Lead
- Waste bags
- Food & water
- Bowls
- Bedding
- Towels
- Toys
- Coat and extra blankets
- Flask of warm (not hot) water for washing paws
- A hot water bottle for elderly or young dogs
- Help Your Dog Get Used to Car Travel
Gradual exposure is key. Start with short, positive journeys. Never launch straight into a long Christmas trip with an anxious or inexperienced traveller, in case they struggle with nausea or travel sickness.
- Keep Refreshments Handy
- Bring plenty of drinking water.
- RSPCA guidance: Avoid feeding within two hours of travel.
- Stick to your dog’s usual food to avoid stomach upset.
- Make Time for Breaks
Regular breaks are crucial for toileting and stretching legs.
Even if you’re rushing to the festivities, remember: your dog won’t enjoy being confined for long periods.
Christmas Safety at Home for Dogs
Christmas at home brings its own hazards – sparkly decorations, tempting foods and bustling guests. Here’s how to keep your dog safe.
Foods to Avoid at Christmas
Christmas dinner smells irresistible, but many seasonal foods are unsafe.
Are Christmas trees toxic to dogs?
Pine needles from real Christmas trees can cause stomach upset or internal punctures if eaten. Tree water can also contain bacteria. Keep the area well-swept and block access if needed.
Common Christmas Foods Dogs Should Avoid
- Onions, leeks, shallots – toxic
- Stuffing – often contains onion & garlic
- Mince pies/Christmas pudding – raisins & sultanas are highly poisonous
- Chocolate – dangerous even in small amounts
- Gravy – often too salty and may contain onion
Safer Christmas Dinner Options
Some foods can be dog-friendly in plain, unseasoned form.
For a detailed breakdown, see our food guides (link to your existing dog food content).
Is It Safe to Have a Real Christmas Tree With Dogs?
One of the most searched festive questions:
“Are real Christmas trees safe for dogs?”
Real trees aren’t poisonous in the traditional sense, but they do pose risks:
- Sharp needles can injure paws or be swallowed.
- Tree water can contain mould, bacteria or fertiliser.
- Fallen needles can irritate skin or cause digestive discomfort.
Tips:
- Use a tree guard or playpen.
- Sweep regularly.
- Cover the tree base.
Choking Hazards at Christmas
Dogs love exploring with their mouths, especially when new items appear!
Watch out for:
- Baubles
- Tinsel
- Ribbon
- Wrapping paper
- Small toys
- Crackers (which may contain chocolate or sharp items)
Keep decorations out of reach and never leave dogs unsupervised around presents.
Ensure Your Dog Has a Safe Space
Christmas can be overwhelming.
Create a quiet retreat away from guests, music and noisy celebrations. Include:
- Their bed
- Familiar blankets
- Water
- Comforting toys
This helps avoid stress, especially for puppies, older dogs or naturally nervous breeds.
Avoid Overwhelming Your Dog
Holiday gatherings can be overstimulating.
Management tips:
- Introduce guests calmly.
- Allow your dog space to retreat.
- Maintain their usual routine as closely as possible.
- Supervise interactions with children.
When Your Dog Can’t Travel With You
Sometimes, despite all preparation, taking your dog with you simply isn’t possible—maybe a Christmas party isn’t dog-friendly or your dog suffers from car sickness.
In that case, Barking Mad can help.
Our dog home boarding service provides:
- One-to-one care
- Routine familiarity
- Loving, experienced host families
- Updates and peace of mind
Christmas Dog Care FAQs
What veggies can dogs not eat?
Avoid: onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and large amounts of brussels sprouts (can cause gas).
Safe in moderation: carrots, peas, broccoli, green beans.
Is cooked swede ok for dogs?
Yes. Plain, cooked swede is safe and nutritious in small quantities.
What is the one meat that you should never feed your dog?
Never feed cooked bones and avoid heavily seasoned meats or those containing onion/garlic.
As a rule: keep meat plain and cooked.
Can dogs eat mince pies?
No. Mince pies contain raisins, which are toxic.
What stuffing is safe for dogs?
Most stuffing contains onion, so it’s safest to avoid altogether.
Can dogs eat roast potatoes?
Plain, unseasoned roast potatoes are safe, but avoid:
- Oil
- Butter
- Salt
- Goose fat
- Seasonings
What can I give my dog for Christmas dinner?
Safe options (plain, unseasoned):
- Turkey breast
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Peas
- Sweet potato
- A little gravy made specifically for dogs
Are Yorkshire puddings ok for dogs?
In tiny amounts, yes, but they offer little nutritional value and are high in fat.
What happens if a dog eats mistletoe?
Mistletoe can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and abdominal pain.
Seek veterinary advice immediately.
Are holly berries poisonous to dogs?
Yes, holly berries can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Is cranberry sauce ok for dogs?
A small amount of plain cranberry is safe, but cranberry sauce contains:
- Sugar
- Sometimes raisins
- Sometimes alcohol
Best avoided.
Have a Wonderful, Safe Christmas With Your Dog
With some planning and awareness, Christmas can be magical for your dog too. From safe festive food choices to travel preparation, these steps will help keep your pup happy, healthy and part of the celebrations.
Remember, if your festive plans don’t allow your dog to travel with you, Barking Mad is here to help with loving holiday care from our experienced host families.
