Cavoodle Christmas Safety: Decorations and Foods to Avoid This Festive Season

Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year as I get to have quality downtime with the family and that includes lots of cuddles with Bambi & Daisy. But as exciting as Xmas is, we need to remember that some Christmas decorations and foods can be dangerous for dogs, especially curious Cavoodles. As we prepare and start to countdown to the visit from Santa, let’s address some of the potential hazards for your cavoodle that you might not have thought of.

Decorations: Safe vs Dangerous 

Cavoodles are known for being playful, inquisitive, and a little too smart for their own good. Unfortunately, that means many common Christmas decorations look like toys or snacks in their eyes. Here’s what to watch out for and safer swaps you can use instead.

Tinsel and Ribbon

While tinsel and shiny ribbons looks innocent enough they are a choking and blockage hazard if swallowed. They can twist in your dog’s stomach or intestines and cause serious health problems. 

Better option:
Choose paper garlands, fabric bunting, or thick ribbon that’s harder to chew. They still look festive but are far less tempting to a cheeky Cavoodle.

Glass Baubles and Fragile Ornaments

Glass or thin plastic baubles can easily break and cut paws or mouths. Even hanging low on the tree, they’re irresistible to a pup who loves playing fetch. Believe me, I have had a dog who loved to eat Xmas ornaments as a puppy so it does happen.

Better option:
Use shatterproof ornaments, wooden decorations, or even DIY “paw print” ornaments to add a personal touch.

Fairy Lights and Electrical Cords

Chewing on cords can lead to burns or electric shock. Puppies especially see them as tug toys.

Better option:
Opt for battery-powered lights, keep cords out of reach, or use cord covers. You can also spray a pet-safe bitter deterrent on cords for extra safety.

Christmas Tree Water

If you have a real tree, the water at the base can contain sap, bacteria, or fertiliser,  none of which mix well with your Cavoodle’s tummy.

Better option:
Cover the tree stand with a secure lid or fabric tree skirt, or go artificial for an easier, needle-free Christmas.

Candles and Essential Oils

Scented candles and diffusers can contain harmful ingredients like pine, cinnamon, or clove oil. Open flames also pose an obvious risk for wagging tails.

Better option:
Use LED candles or a pet-safe diffuser with calming oils such as lavender or chamomile (and always keep them out of reach).

No one wants an emergency vet visit on Xmas Day while you’re distracted by arguing relatives so think about these potential hazards in advance.

The Gift Unwrapping Chaos: Hidden Hazards in Wrapping Paper and Toys

When it’s time to open presents, most Cavoodles think the fun has only just begun. The rustling paper, ribbons, and squeaky new toys make Christmas morning feel like a sensory playground. But this part of the day can also bring a few unexpected dangers for your furry friend.

Wrapping Paper and Ribbons

The sound of tearing paper is practically music to a Cavoodle’s ears  but eating it is another story. Large pieces of paper or decorative ribbons can cause digestive blockages, while metallic or glittered paper may contain dyes that upset sensitive stomachs.

Safer approach:
Keep a separate bag or bin for discarded wrapping paper and ribbons, and encourage family to toss scraps straight in. If your pup loves to “help,” give them their own dog-safe gift to unwrap — like a cardboard box with treats or a plush toy inside.

Batteries and Small Parts

Many kids’ toys, gadgets, and even musical cards use button batteries and these are extremely dangerous if swallowed. They can burn through a dog’s throat or stomach lining within hours.

Safer approach:
Open battery-powered gifts on a table or bench, never on the floor, and dispose of spare batteries immediately. Double-check that no tiny pieces, screws, or packaging materials are left where a curious Cavoodle can reach them.

Small Toys and Plastic Bits

Those adorable stocking stuffers - Lego pieces, mini dolls, bouncy balls  can look like the perfect chew toy. Unfortunately, they can easily lodge in your dog’s throat or intestines.

Safer approach:
Keep children’s toys and new gifts well out of reach after unwrapping. Instead, give your Cavoodle something that’s actually designed for them, like a durable chew toy, puzzle feeder, or plush squeaky reindeer.

The excitement of unwrapping gifts can be just as enjoyable for your Cavoodle as long as you plan ahead. Clear away the paper, watch for small items, and keep those batteries under control.With a few extra precautions, you’ll avoid any mishaps and make sure the only thing your Cavoodle unwraps this year is joy.

Foods to Avoid: Dangerous Christmas Treats for Cavoodles

The holiday table is full of smells your Cavoodle would love to sample but many Christmas foods are toxic or unsafe for dogs. As tempting as it is to give them a bowl full of your xmas dinner, think again. Here’s a quick guide to what’s on the naughty list (and what to serve instead).

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs can’t metabolise. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, tremors, or seizures.

Safer treat:
Try dog-safe carob drops or make homemade peanut butter biscuits.

Christmas Ham and Fatty Meats

Fatty cuts like ham or turkey skin can cause pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas.

Safer treat:
Offer small pieces of plain, cooked chicken or turkey breast  no seasoning, garlic, or onion.

Grapes, Raisins, and Christmas Pudding

These festive staples can lead to kidney failure in dogs. Mince pies, puddings, and fruitcakes are off-limits.

Safer treat:
Try a dog-friendly “Christmas cookie” made with oats, banana, and peanut butter, or frozen fruit like blueberries.

Onion, Garlic, and Chives

These ingredients are common in stuffing, gravy, and roasts but they damage red blood cells and cause anaemia.

Safer treat:
A spoonful of plain pumpkin or sweet potato mash is both festive and gentle on your Cavoodle’s stomach.

Alcohol and Eggnog

Alcohol can cause vomiting, disorientation, and tremors. Eggnog often contains nutmeg, another dangerous ingredient for dogs. Never give your cavoodle any sort of alcohol.

Safer treat:
Make your Cavoodle their own Christmas “puptail” with a splash of goat’s milk with a sprinkle of cinnamon for fun (and totally safe) festivities.

Cooked Bones

Cooked bones can splinter, causing choking or internal injury.

Safer treat:
Offer a long-lasting natural chew like a bully stick, yak chew, or even a frozen carrot for a crunchy, healthy snack.

TIP: Ask your guests to not food the cavoodle, no matter how tempted they might be

Your Cavoodle doesn’t know that tinsel isn’t a toy or that chocolate isn’t good for them, they just want to join the fun. By choosing dog-safe decorations and Cavoodle-friendly Christmas treats, you’ll keep the holiday season joyful, stress-free, and full of tail wags and avoid any expensive emergency vet visits. Sending lots of Xmas joy and love from Bambi & Daisy.