Can dogs eat Christmas dinner? It’s one of the top questions pet parents ask during the holidays — and for good reason! With all the delicious smells and festive foods on the table, your pup is likely giving you those big hopeful eyes. But not everything on your plate is safe for dogs, and some holiday favourites can even be harmful.

Let’s break down what your dog can and can’t eat at Christmas, how to celebrate safely, and some dog-friendly ways to include your furry friend in the festivities — including tasty seasonal treats from Soopa that are perfect for the holidays.

Can Dogs Eat Christmas Dinner?

Yes, but only the right parts in moderation. When thinking about can dogs eat Christmas dinner, the key is choosing foods that are plain, fully cooked, and free from harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, seasonings, fat, and bones.

Here is vet-approved advice on whether it's safe to feed your dog Christmas dinner:

• Turkey meat (no skin or bones): Lean, unseasoned turkey is a great source of protein and generally safe for dogs in small amounts.

• Plain boiled or mashed potatoes: Only if they’re not cooked with butter, salt, or seasonings.
• Vegetables like carrots, peas, green beans, Brussels sprouts and parsnips: These can be healthy additions to a small festive plate.
• Plain sweet potatoes: High in fibre and nutrients, just make sure they’re not loaded with marshmallows or syrup.

While it is okay to let your dog taste a tiny bit of people food now and then during the holidays, vets will tell you not to give them a full human Christmas dinner, especially if it includes rich or seasoned foods.

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Can Dogs Eat Christmas Dinner: What to Avoid

When thinking about can dogs eat Christmas dinner, knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what’s safe. Many traditional dishes pose real health risks:

• Stuffing & gravy – Often contain onions, garlic, high salt and fat — all bad for dogs.
• Cooked bones – These can splinter and cause choking or internal injury.
• Chocolate, raisins, currants or sultanas – Extremely toxic and can cause serious illness.
• Rich desserts & sweets – Cakes, puddings, mince pies often contain sugar, dairy, and dried fruit that are dangerous for dogs.
• Fatty meats, ham or skin – Too much fat can lead to stomach upset or pancreatitis.

So while it’s tempting to let them lick the plate, can dogs eat Christmas dinner safely? Only the dog-safe parts — and only in moderation. The rest is best enjoyed by you! 

Better Ways to Include Your Dog in Christmas Dinner

Instead of feeding your pup from the human table, why not make their own special festive feast?

• DIY doggy Christmas dinner: A small plate of plain turkey, boiled veggies like green beans and carrots, and plain sweet potato is a safe and tasty festive meal.
• Serve safe festive snacks: Use Soopa Cranberry & Sweet Potato Christmas Treats as a holiday reward — these plant-based goodies are made with wholesome ingredients perfect for getting your dog into the Christmas spirit without any of the harmful extras.
• Dog-safe toppers: Sprinkle unseasoned turkey or a spoonful of plain mashed veggies on top of their regular food for a festive twist.

Adding thoughtful, nutritionally appropriate foods keeps your dog included in the celebration without risking their health.

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FAQ: Can Dogs Eat Christmas Dinner?

Q: Can dogs eat turkey from Christmas dinner?
A: Yes, as long as it’s plain, cooked, boneless, and unseasoned. Turkey skin and bones should always be avoided.

Q: Can dogs eat mashed potatoes at Christmas?
A: Plain mashed potatoes without butter, salt, or dairy are okay in small amounts, but avoid heavily seasoned or creamy mash.

Q: Is it safe to let dogs have Christmas leftovers?
A: Be careful — many leftovers contain harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, fats, or cooked bones. Stick to safe choices or special dog treats instead.

Q: What should I do if my dog eats something toxic at Christmas?
A: Contact your veterinarian or local pet poison helpline immediately — symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or distress warrant urgent attention.