THE DOs & DON'Ts OF A HAPPY HOWLIDAY (PART ONE)

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, or something else entirely, the holidays tend to be a time where we surround ourselves with family and friends. We make our houses as brightly decorated as possible and we eat exorbitant amounts of food. It's a time to cherish what we have and that includes our furry family members; the question becomes how do we best care for them during holidays?

Let's start out with the tastiest morsel: food.

There are certain things that you never want to give your dog. During the holidays, I like to give out a list of a few of those things just so you can be on the lookout for how to best protect your furry family members.

• Seasonings – I make this noted first as whenever I have a client as me if a food is okay for their dog, I usually preface it with “it depends on what's in it.” Seasoning are something most of us use on a regular basis without really thinking about it. Seasonings like Garlic, Onion, Cocoa Powder, and Nutmeg are toxic to dogs and should be avoided.

• Salt - The recommended amount of sodium an adult 33-pound dog can have daily is only 200mg. Going over this amount of Salt will cause increased thirst and urination, which leads to dehydration. It can also cause vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea when ingested in larger quantities.

Poultry

• Turkey/Chicken/Duck – While plain white poultry meat makes a good treat for dogs in moderation, that is not often what ends up on our tables. Dark meat is high in fat and a large amount of butter and seasoning often makes this a much more unhealthy treat. Raw poultry can contain bacteria, such as salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to dogs. It's also important to mention that poultry bones can easily splinter and puncture your dog’s digestive tract.

Red Meat

• Ham/Roast/Pork - “Meats such as roast beef and ham can [wreak] havoc on a dog’s stomach,” says Dawn Pyne, the brand advertising manager for Embrace Pet Insurance in Cleveland, Ohio. “The high fat content, seasoning and salt can lead to intoxication, pancreatitis and gastroenteritis issues in dogs.”

• Hamburger/Steak – While you have to be careful not to serve steak or hamburger raw (they can also contain bacteria, such as salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to dogs), an unseasoned steak or hamburger should not be harmful to your dogs. Key word: unseasoned. Added flavors often found in these items like garlic or onion are toxic to dogs.

• Sausages - Even we humans have to be wary of eating sausages regularly because it is processed meat that is typically high in fat, saturated fat, salt, and all the things we need to moderate in our diets. They’re not a healthy food and definitely aren’t good for humans or hounds no matter how tasty they are. Despite them being meaty, they aren’t a good source of protein. Many brands contain less than 50% pork. Flavored sausages also run the risk of containing ingredients that are harmful to dogs, such as nutmeg, garlic, or onions.

• Mashed Potatoes – While potatoes are pretty much harmless to dogs, please remember that dairy (cow's milk/butter/cheese) and toppings like green onions most definitely are. Boil a potato and let your dog go nuts; keep the leftovers in the fridge.

• Sweet Potatoes/Yams – Never feed sweet potatoes raw as they contain a compound called solanine which can be toxic for dogs. Otherwise, the same rules as White or Gold Potatoes are applied here as well...with the added cation that marshmallows aren't entirely safe for dogs. Many marshmallows have Xylitol (see Candies/Gum!) and are high calorie. I'd also add that they are a sticky sweet nightmare to pull out of fur. Just saying.

• Garlic/Leeks/Scallions/Onions - All plants in the allium family, including onions contain a chemical compound called N-propyl disulfide and this compound is what makes these vegetables toxic to dogs. It specifically impacts on your dog's red blood cells.

• Chocolate – Chocolate consumption in dogs is a top ingestion problem during the holidays. Chocolate contains Theobromine, which can be harmful and sometimes fatal to your dog. Baking chocolate is exceptionally high in this chemical. The general rule of thumb is the darker the chocolate, the more danger it poses. If your pet consumes chocolate, contact your veterinarian,a veterinary emergency center or a pet poison helpline immediately. Quick treatment can minimize the danger to your dog. If your dog also ate candy wrappers or bags, it may present the additional problem of intestinal blockage. So, be sure to let your veterinarian know what was consumed.

“The main thing to watch out for is the amount of Theobromine a dog might eat. The darker the chocolate, the more Theobromine,” says Dr. Sharon L. Campbell, a veterinarian at Zoetis. “As a rule of thumb, the more bitter the chocolate tastes, the darker it usually is, and therefore the worse it is for dogs. Signs that your pet may have eaten chocolate include hyper-excitability and anxiousness, seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, rapid breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.”

• Candies/Gum – The biggest concern with candy is the risk of the ingredient xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used as an artificial sweetener. Xylitol is toxic to pets. This ingredient is often used in sugar-free items but has been showing up in more and more foods every day even when they are NOT labeled as sugar-free. Most often, xylitol is found in sugar-free gum, sugar-free candy, and sugar-free baked goods. It is sometimes found in toothpaste and peanut butter as well.

• Hard Candies – Hard candy can also present a problem for dogs. Aside from being a choking hazard, large quantities of hard candies and gum can clump up in the stomach and cause a risk of obstruction.

• Raisins/Grapes – Raisins and grapes are dangerous to dogs and can cause renal failure. Be sure that you keep raisins and grapes out of your dog’s reach at all times. If your dog consumes raisins/grapes, please call your veterinarian or veterinary emergency center immediately. Prompt action can be helpful in reducing the risk to your pet. Treating raisin intoxication is expensive, too. In one case, a Beagle named AnnaBelle, who had a habit of eating things she wasn’t supposed to, “ate four pounds of chicken and a box of chocolate-covered nuts,” . “Then she ate a fruit cake, and the fruitcake claim ended up being about $2,800.”

• Tomatoes - While a red tomato is okay for dogs, any green portions contain a toxin called solanine that can cause some gastrointestinal upset.

Nuts – Nuts are a hard nut to crack. I offer a list of many nuts, as they vary from some that are healthy in moderation, only okay if roasted, to completely toxic.

We'll start with complete no-nos:

• Macadamia Nuts - These nuts are toxic to your dog, regardless of whether they are raw or roasted. Scientists don’t know why the toxicity level exists (much like with raisins and grapes), but studies have proven that dogs should NEVER have macadamia nuts. There is no safe amount of these nuts for your dog. Macadamia poisoning may be present if your dog shows signs of back leg weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and more serious gastrointestinal problems.

• Raw Cashews - Cashews are safe for dogs if roasted. Luckily, since they are from the same botanical family as poison ivy or sumac, they’re mostly sold roasted. If you come across any raw cashews or in their shells, don’t feed them to your pooch since ingestion can cause a toxic reaction. Give roasted cashews sparingly, as they can be high in fat!

• Walnuts - Walnuts (especially Black Walnuts) can carry juglone, a poisonous substance secreted by the roots of the walnut trees. Its purpose is to discourage other plants from growing around them and adheres to the shell of the walnut when they fall from the tree. Juglone causes laminitis in horses and convulsions or seizures in dogs.

Walnuts also can contain mycotoxins, a toxic substance produced by molds and fungi, that also may cause convulsions or seizures. If you have a walnut tree, make sure your pooch stays away from any moldy walnuts that have fallen.

English Walnuts (most commonly used for cooking) are the safest of the walnuts and not toxic to your dog. They contain low levels of juglone, and are not as toxic as the Black Walnut. However, they also contain high fat and calories and should only be offered sparingly and never whole.

• Hazelnuts – Hazelnuts are toxic for the same reasons that Walnuts are toxic (the presence of mycotoxins and juglone) and should be avoided at all costs.

• Pecans - Pecans are toxic for the same reasons that Walnuts are toxic (the presence of mycotoxins and juglone) and should be avoided at all costs. Yes, this means no pecan pie for Fido. I'm sad too.

• Chestnuts – The Horse Chestnut is toxic for the same reasons that Walnuts are toxic and should be avoided at all costs. The American Chestnut is a safe nut to offer your dog. However, they are very large and contain high fats and calories. Your dog should only eat small portions of this large nut, and only if it’s roasted.

• Brazil Nuts - These large nuts are safe for your dog. However, they are the fattiest of the nuts. Eating one may not affect your large dog, but offering more could cause an upset stomach or the more serious issue of pancreatitis. For a small dog, even one brazil nut could be unsafe.

• Hickory Nuts - These nuts are not safe for your dog for the same reasons as pecans and walnuts. They can carry mycotoxins or molds that can cause convulsions and seizures.

• Pine Nuts - These nuts are not toxic to your dog. However, they contain high levels of fats and phosphorus, so offer sparingly. Too many can cause gastrointestinal upsets or even pancreatitis. The high phosphorus levels could spell trouble for dogs susceptible to urinary tract problems. Give in small amounts, if at all.

• Pistachios - Pistachios are another nut that is very beneficial as human food, but not so much for your dog. While they are not toxic to your dog, pistachios can carry juglone, aspergillus mold, or mycotoxins that can cause liver failure in dogs when ingested. Give in small amounts, if at all.

So, your dog isn't allowed to have nuts at all?

Well, no, but mind the differences in nuts and always give in moderation.

Let's break this list down:

NO ✘ ! YES ✔

Macadamia Nuts ✘ Peanuts ✔

Raw Cashews ✘ Roasted Cashews ✔

Pecans ✘ Roasted American Chestnuts ✔

Hazelnuts ✘ Brazil nuts (large dogs, small amount) ✔

Walnuts ✘ Pine nuts (sparingly) ✔

Hickory Nuts ✘ Pistachios (sparingly) ✔

(Special mention to Peanuts here – yes, I saw you in the back with your hand up – Peanuts are technically a legume. They can be high in fat but overall pose no threat to your dog. Which I'm thankful for as boiled peanuts are a favorite southern tradition in my house!

P.S. You should always check Peanut Butter for Xylitol, for the same reasons listed in Candies/Gum)

There are also some harmful food that you might not think of during the holidays but might end up on your table and/or kitchen counters, like like lemons/limes, avocados, and yeast/bread dough.

At the end of the day...what can your dog eat?

Actually, there's a rather large list of dog friendly foods.

• Seasonings such as Cinnamon, Turmeric, Ginger, Parsley, and Basil are good for dogs and even have some health benefits such as being antioxidant boosts, anti-inflammatory, help with brain function and weight loss, and even reducing anxiety.

• Unseasoned Meats – The best poultry and meats for dogs are unseasoned, lean meats such as turkey, chicken, low fat hamburger, and steak with the trimmings cut off. Avoid dark meat poultry and fatty red meats.

• Potatoes (Sweet, Gold, and White) – Best left unseasoned, no dairy (cow's milk/butter/cheese). Never feed sweet potatoes raw as they contain a compound called solanine which can be toxic for dogs.

Fruits:

When it comes to fruits, there are some really great fruits that dogs can have and they deserve a whole list of their own. But here are a few favorites:

• Apples - Apples of all varieties make good treats for dogs because they’re an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and calcium. “Make sure to cut them up and remove the core before serving,” Shawna Garner, DVM, U.S. lead veterinarian at FirstVet, adds, “as apple seeds can cause dogs to have an upset stomach when eaten in large quantities.”

• Bananas – Yes, Bananas are technically a berry but they deserve a category all their own. Bananas are high in potassium and low in sodium.. That said, they do tend to be higher in sugar, so one or two thin slices at a time is plenty.

• Berries – Blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, kiwis, and strawberries are all great for dogs. They're high in fiber, have lots of beneficial vitamins, and are nutrient-dense and low in calories. Strawberries contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth and Cranberries are even known to help fight UTIs. Raspberries contain a high level of natural xylitol, an all-natural sweetener that can be toxic to dogs in large quantities. Serve raspberries in moderation. Frozen berries are fine as long as they are not sugared. Avoid canned berry products such as cranberry sauce or canned or jarred blackberries as these are likely to contain added sugar or may be sweetened with Xylitol which is toxic to dogs. Pies made with blackberries or other baked goods are off the menu as are sweetened blackberry jams and spreads.

• Oranges – Oranges are loaded with beneficial vitamins and fiber and are safe for dogs in small quantities. Remove the peel and seeds and give your dog a slice. They shouldn't be given to obese dogs or dogs with diabetes as they are high in sugar. Avoid orange juice for this same reason.

• Pears - Pears are high in lots of beneficial vitamins and contain beneficial probiotics. You can serve them raw, cooked, or mashed but avoid canned or jarred pears, as these may contain added sugar or may be sweetened with Xylitol which is toxic to dogs.

• Watermelon - A classic summer staple, watermelon is a refreshing low-calorie treat that tastes good. Watermelons are high in anti-oxidant carotenoids, including beta-carotene and lycopene and are high in water content for helpful hydration. When feeding watermelon to your dog, remove the skin, rind, and the seeds. The skin is difficult to digest, and the rind can cause intestinal obstruction

• Pumpkin - Pumpkin is a favorite fruit for dogs that tastes good, is easy on their tummy, and delivers lots of nutrients to their diet. This fall favorite is a source of fiber, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, zinc, iron, potassium, and Vitamin A. Pumpkin is also a popular supplement for dogs as it packs his diet with fiber that aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Canned unsweetened pumpkin is okay but pumpkin pie and pumpkin pie filling is off the menu.

• Persimmons, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, and Cherries - Persimmons, peaches, plums, apricots, and cherries are also okay for dogs but the pits and seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous for both humans and dogs. Only serve pitted/seedless

A Note for those serving fruit: You shouldn’t give your pet any sort of fruit seeds (with the exception of fresh berries) or pits. Not only are these potential choking hazards, but they can also contain toxins that can lead to internal issues. In addition, it’s best to avoid peels and rinds, as these are more difficult for your dog to process. Stick to the fleshy parts instead.

Vegetables:

• Carrots - Carrots are an excellent source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin A. Dogs are usually big fans of carrots, which are sweet, crunchy, and fun to chew on. Feed them fresh, cooked, or frozen.

• Peas – Yes, they’re technically legumes but peas are still worthy of a spot on this list. Just avoid canned varieties, since they may have added sodium or preservatives. These tiny treats feature both protein and fiber, as well as vitamins A, B, C, and K and their small size makes peas great for training treats

• Broccoli - This green vegetable is rich in vitamin K, which improves bone strength and density. You can serve it raw or cooked so long as you stick to dog-friendly seasonings, or simply give some frozen broccoli as a quick and easy snack. Be aware that there is a risk associated with this cruciferous veggie as it contains compounds called isothiocyanates. These can cause gastric irritation in some dogs when too much is fed, ranging from mild to severe. Moderation is defintely the key when it comes to offering broccoli.

• Cauliflower - Contains antioxidants that could help reduce inflammation, making it a good choice for dogs who suffer from joint pain. They are full of fiber to promote healthy gut activities. Dogs can safely eat cauliflower in many preparations, including raw, steamed, roasted, and riced

• Celery - Celery can provide a boost to your dog’s dental health, supporting healthy teeth and gums and possibly even freshening their breath. Their high water content also makes celery super low in calories without detracting from their nutritional density. However, celery is a natural diuretic, so you’ll want to avoid it if your dog has stomach issues or doesn’t tend to drink enough water throughout the day.

• Green Beans - The natural sweetness of green beans makes them a palatable choice, while their many nutrients (protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C, and K, to name a few) make them a healthy occasional treat option. The iron in green beans also helps to promote the production of red blood cells.

• Cucumber - For something that’s so high in water content, cucumbers sure do pull their weight when it comes to nutritional value. And they’re an especially useful treat if you live in a hot climate, offering a quick dose of hydrating refreshment on a balmy day. Cucumbers contain phytochemicals that may be able to fight against bad breath. These nutritious veggies also contain silica, a trace mineral that helps with the growth and maintenance of the body’s connective tissues

• Asparagus - The antioxidants in asparagus are vitamin A, Vitamin E, and vitamin C, glutathione, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Antioxidants fight the free radicals that cause oxidative stress and damage cells in your dog’s body. Oxidative stress comes from environmental factors like pollution, pesticides, daily stress, and illness. In addition, Asparagus has LOTS of fiber. However, raw asparagus stalks are very tough and can be a choking hazard if not properly prepared. Small dogs are at greater risk of choking. To remove the risk, cut the stalks into bite-size pieces before you offer them to your dog. Be careful not to feed them too much, as an excess of fiber can cause gas, stomach upset, and vomiting. Avoid canned, as the sodium content is way too high.

• Squash - Butternut squash, in particular, contains lots of vitamins and minerals like A, C, B6 and more which help your dog's immune system, vision and cardiovascular function. Dogs can eat any of the different varieties of squash — in fact, each of the different types of squash comes with its own sets of benefits for dogs! Spaghetti squash supports your dog’s immune system, vision, colon, muscles, and more. Since acorn squash is filled with vitamin A, folate, and vitamin B-6, it can work wonders for the digestion of a dog — plus, it can help give them a shinier coat!Butternut squash is filled with potassium, which greatly benefits the nerves, enzymes, kidneys, and muscles of a dog. Dogs can eat any type of squash, but you’ll want to make sure that you remove the seeds before feeding it to your dog. While a few seeds won’t hurt your dog, if they eat too many, they can cause a backup in your dog’s digestive system.

• Kale – Loaded with vitamins K, A and C, feeding your dog kale can aid in higher energy levels, blood and muscle health, a better immune system and comes with the potential to fight cancer as well as other inflammatory diseases. (It should be noted that other sources may claim kale is not healthy for dogs. However, when making up a small percentage of a recipe, you can give your dog the nutritious aspects of this vegetable without any harmful effects.)

• Spinach - Spinach contains potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B6, B9 and E. It also contains high amounts of carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, iron and calcium. It is thought that by serving your pup a little bit of spinach on occasion, that you can help fend off cancer, inflammatory and cardiovascular issues. There is also the potential to raise energy levels and immunity.

• Beets - Beets provide vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium. These nutrients help your dog's digestion and immune system and supports a healthy skin and coat.

Grains:

• Rice - Rice is a readily available grain that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Brown rice is a whole grain that still has the outer kernel layers, unlike white rice. This brown hull contains most of the fiber and nutrient content of the grain. In addition to fiber and carbohydrates, brown rice is rich in B vitamins. These vitamins play a vital role in energy metabolism and enzyme function. This ingredient is also a natural source of magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin E. Dogs experiencing digestive upset may benefit from eating whole brown rice or white rice. This grain is easily digestible and can help soothe your pup’s stomach as he recovers.

• Barley - Barley is another common cereal grain used as a source of carbohydrates in dog food. Although most frequently associated with brewing beer, this grain is a popular alternative to corn and wheat. Compared to other grains, Barley has an exceptionally high energy content. It is an ideal ingredient for active dogs with higher carbohydrate needs. Like rice, Barley is also rich in B vitamins.

• Oats - Oats are one of the most nutritious grains in human and canine diets. Oats are high in protein and low in gluten. They are popular in formulas for dogs with sensitivities to corn, wheat, or other grains. Although dogs digest animal protein more efficiently than plant protein, oats can help boost meat-based diets’ protein content. The low glycemic index of oats helps control blood sugar. And the soluble fiber from whole oats helps manage cholesterol.

• Quinoa - Quinoa is a healthy grain enjoyed by humans that is also safe for canines in moderate amounts. Premium grain-inclusive dog food formulas sometimes contain this edible seed. It is a healthier alternative to corn and wheat, which are common starchy ingredients in kibble. This ancient grain is nutrient-dense and packed with calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral in canine diets that plays a critical role in bone development.

• Corn - Corn is a safe dietary ingredient for most canines that is high in digestible carbohydrates and nutrients. Some of the other ancient grains on this list pack a more significant nutritional punch but this affordable and abundant grain does contain substantial levels of vitamin E and beta-carotene. It also provides essential fatty acids that support coat health.

• Whole Wheat - Whole Wheat is the best form of this grain for dogs. Whole grains contain grain kernels that have been left intact. The outer layer of a wheat kernel is the wheat bran, which is rich in fiber. Fiber acts as a prebiotic, nourishing the good bacteria in your dog’s digestive system.

• Sorghum - This cereal grass has similar digestibility to rice but boasts a lower glycemic index. So sorghum may be beneficial in grain-inclusive diets for pets with diabetes. Essential fatty acids from sorghum also have antioxidant effects in your pup’s body. Sorghum’s high mineral content provides a dietary source of phosphorus, copper, magnesium, and zinc.

• Rye - Rye has a very similar nutritional profile to barley. It is an excellent source of B vitamins and fiber. But despite high energy levels, some human studies demonstrate that rye can help promote weight loss, blood sugar control, and heart health. When unprocessed, Rye has a higher fiber content than wheat. Dog’s don’t use fiber as a primary source of energy, but a high fiber content helps your dog feel full and prevents overeating.

• Millet - Millet is a small seed most often used in wild bird food. But, this grain is growing in popularity as an omnivore-appropriate dog food ingredient. This grass seed is similar to the grains that your dog’s ancestors consumed by eating a prey animal’s stomach. This grain is also gluten-free, making it a popular choice for gluten-sensitive dogs who prefer grain-inclusive diets. Additional features of millet include high concentrations of antioxidants, which boost your dog’s immune system.

It is important to note that Wheat and Corn can be allergenic and are not recommended as an ingredient in dry dog food. Unfortunately, many corn-containing ingredients in dog foods are by-products, like corn gluten meal and are not as healthy as all that.

Remember, always consult your veterinarian when making changes to your dog's diet.

And that's Part One of Three of our Happy Howlidays posts! I hope this information helps and always remember - if you have any questions or would like links to my sources, comment below and I'd be happy to help.

Next up: Decor

A Girl's Best Friend Dog Training

Amy Konrad

928-577-4131