A dog-friendly guide to decorating your Christmas tree

You can still enjoy your usual Christmas traditions, but you'll need to think carefully about how and where you decorate your Christmas tree. Many dogs find the tree exciting to play with – the decorations look like toys, the water in the stand tastes interesting, and the branches are fun to chew on. Here’s what to consider when you have a Christmas tree at home.

Placing the tree

It’s a good idea to place your tree where your dog can’t easily reach it. You could create a contained area using dog gates or keep your dog out of a specific room. It's also wise to secure the tree to the wall to prevent it from falling over, especially if your dog likes to play with it.

Make sure your dog can’t access the water the tree is standing in. Never use chemicals or fertilisers that could poison your dog. The water itself can be toxic, so ensure your dog can’t drink it. Clean up any fallen needles that your dog might try to eat, as these can damage their digestive system.

Decorating the tree

When decorating the tree, think carefully about the materials you use. If you opt for delicate decorations, hang them higher up where your dog can’t reach them. Glass and aluminium baubles can break, potentially cutting your dog’s paws.

Be aware that tinsel and glitter can look tempting and edible to your dog. They can cause blockages in the digestive tract and lead to discomfort. So, choose your decorations wisely to prevent your dog from ingesting them.
Many decorations, such as candy canes and chocolates, are toxic to dogs and should not be used on a Christmas tree.

Gifts under the tree

We all love putting presents under the tree, but remember your dog might see them as a new toy. They could accidentally ingest ribbons and wrapping paper, leading to an upset stomach. Some gifts might also contain toxic items for dogs, like chocolate boxes or other human treats. So, keep a close eye on your dog if they’re allowed near the Christmas tree.

Consult a vet

Always check your vet’s opening hours during the festive season so you can get help quickly if your dog becomes unwell. You can also call a digital vet for advice; as a Lassie customer, you have unlimited calls.