Warning: Why dogs must avoid eating mince pies at Christmas (2024)

It’s a pet owner’s worst nightmare to discover that their dog has accidentally eaten something dangerous. At Christmas, with a variety of different foods and decorations on display, the number of hazards in the home can rise.

One of those risks? The humble mince pie, due to the raisins, currants or sultanas inside. These contain tartaric acid which is toxic for dogs and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

One owner recently discovered this the hard way when she walked into her living room to find her dogs had devoured an entire plate of mince pies. Even though she had left the plate on a high table, she found her 11-year-old Labrador and 7-year-old Jack Russell/Beagle mix sniffing all that remained of the festive treats: the crumbs.

Owner, Amanda, immediately took both dogs to the emergency vet, where they were able to induce vomiting to minimise harm to the stomach. The trip cost her £547 in veterinary bills.

According to The Kennel Club, dogs are 75% more likely to be treated by a vet for eating harmful food in December than in any other month of the year.

Other festive hazards for dogs:

• Pine needles
• Tinsel
• Glitter
• Poinsettias
• Mistletoe
• Holly
• Turkey bones
• Chocolate
• Alcohol

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