Holiday Hazards for Dogs: How to Keep Your Dog Safe This Winter
By Tasha Mesina, Cindra Grooming Products
The holidays bring warmth, joy, and a full house — but they also introduce seasonal risks many dog owners don’t realize until something goes wrong. From festive treats to winter weather hazards, everyday holiday items can pose serious dangers to curious noses and wagging tails.
As dog owners, breeders, and caretakers, prevention is always easier than treatment. This guide walks you through the most common holiday hazards for dogs and how to keep your home festive and safe throughout the season.
Holiday Treats & Chocolates
With more baked goods and candy around the house, accidental snacking happens fast — especially with counter-surfers and floor-level explorers.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs
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Artificial sweeteners like xylitol can cause life-threatening drops in blood sugar
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Fatty treats can trigger pancreatitis
Safety tips:
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Keep all sweets well out of reach
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Use sealed containers instead of open trays
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Remind guests not to “sneak” treats to dogs
If you’re hosting, consider setting out dog-safe treats so well-meaning guests have a safe alternative.
Antifreeze Leaks
Antifreeze is one of the most dangerous winter hazards — and one of the most overlooked.
Why it’s dangerous:
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It tastes sweet, making it attractive to dogs
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Even small amounts can cause kidney failure
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Leaks often go unnoticed on driveways and garage floors
Safety tips:
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Check vehicles regularly for leaks
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Clean spills immediately and thoroughly
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Choose pet-safe antifreeze products whenever possible
If ingestion is suspected, emergency veterinary care is critical — timing matters.
Ice Melt & Road Salt
Winter walks come with hidden risks underfoot.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Can burn paw pads
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Salt residue can cause gastrointestinal upset if licked
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Some de-icers contain toxic chemicals
Safety tips:
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Wipe paws after every walk
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Rinse feet with warm water in icy conditions
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Use dog boots or paw balm for added protection
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Choose pet-safe ice melt at home when possible
Healthy paws are just as important as healthy coats during winter.
Holiday Decorations
To dogs, decorations often look like toys — not hazards.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Tinsel, ribbons, and ornament hooks can cause choking or intestinal blockages
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Breakable ornaments can cause mouth injuries
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Electrical cords pose shock and burn risks
Safety tips:
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Avoid low-hanging decorations
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Skip tinsel entirely if you have dogs
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Secure cords and keep fragile items out of reach
When in doubt, decorate up — not down.
Pine Needles & Christmas Tree Water
Live trees bring classic holiday charm, but they come with risks.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Tree water may contain fertilizers, bacteria, or preservatives
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Pine needles can puncture paws or cause gastrointestinal irritation if eaten
Safety tips:
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Cover or block access to the tree stand
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Vacuum fallen needles regularly
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Secure a tree skirt tightly at the base
Artificial trees eliminate these risks entirely and may be a safer option for some households.
Space Heaters & Fireplaces
Warmth attracts dogs — sometimes too closely.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Burns to noses, paws, and tails
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Risk of knocking over heaters
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Curious tails near open flames
Safety tips:
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Use fireplace screens at all times
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Keep space heaters well out of reach
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Never leave heat sources unattended around pets
Cozy for humans doesn’t always mean safe for dogs.
A Safer Holiday Starts at Home
The holidays should be memorable for the right reasons — not emergency vet visits. With a little awareness and preparation, most seasonal hazards are completely preventable.
At Cindra, we believe responsible grooming goes hand-in-hand with responsible pet care. A healthy coat, protected paws, and a safe environment all work together to keep dogs comfortable, confident, and thriving — even during the busiest time of year.
From our home to yours, we wish you a safe, cozy, and dog-friendly holiday season.