Ah, Christmas—the season of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and a whole new set of challenges for dog parents! While we’re busy decking the halls, our curious pups are plotting how to turn the Christmas tree into their new chew toy! For many dog parents, the question isn't just, “Will they knock it over?” but also, “are Christmas trees toxic to dogs?”
“While most real Christmas trees (like fir, spruce, and pine) aren’t highly toxic to pets, it’s always best to check with your local nursery or vet for the safest options for your pets,” advises animal health technician Myriam Doré.
Keep reading to learn more about how to keep your dog (and tree) safe this holiday season!
Are Christmas Trees Toxic to Dogs?
While Christmas trees aren’t inherently toxic to dogs, they can still pose some health risks that pet parents should be aware of. Myriam explains, “Preservatives in tree water, along with any chemicals used on the tree (like fertilizers or pesticides), can be harmful if ingested.”
Myriam also notes that, if eaten, pine needles or tree branches can irritate your dog's digestive system, leading to symptoms like:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Upset stomach
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Injury
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Internal blockages
“The oils in pine or fir trees can cause nausea or drooling in some dogs,” notes Myriam.
To minimize the risks associated with Christmas trees, you can:
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Cover the tree water: Myriam notes, “Ensure the tree stand’s water is inaccessible to your pets. Use a tree skirt or cover to hide the water and prevent them from drinking it, as it could contain harmful chemicals or bacteria.”
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Keep branches out of reach: Trim the lower sections of your tree to prevent your dog from chewing on them.
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Secure the tree: Ensure your tree’s stable enough to avoid any accidental tumbles. Myriam recommends this, especially with energetic, curious, or young dogs.
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Fence off the tree: In the case of very curious pups, you may need to completely block access to your Christmas tree altogether.
Are Artificial Christmas Trees Safe for Dogs?
Artificial Christmas trees are also usually quite safe for dogs. But there are a few risks to be aware of. While fake trees don’t shed needles or contain tree oils, your dog might still chew on plastic branches, which can break off and become a choking hazard or cause blockages.
You still don’t want your dog attempting to chew on the tree!
Keeping your pup safe only requires a few extra steps, though:
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Opt for sturdy materials: Consider a tree made from durable materials that are less likely to break (and get eaten).
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Avoid small decorations: Some artificial trees come pre-decorated, but small or dangling ornaments can be enticing for some dogs.
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Skip the scents: Some artificial trees are scented. These may be extra-enticing for your pup, so consider a non-scented option instead.
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Secure the base: Artificial Christmas trees can also fall over and cause injuries. Make sure the tree is stable before you let your dog investigate!
How to Dog-Proof a Christmas Tree
Dog-proofing your Christmas tree doesn’t mean sacrificing your holiday fun. Instead, it just takes a little planning and foresight! Here’s how to keep your pup out of trouble this Christmas season:
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Anchor the tree: Anchor any type of tree using a sturdy stand. Some energetic dogs may even need their trees anchored to the wall.
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Cover tree water: For real trees, cover the water so that your dog doesn’t try to drink it. The tree can leach chemicals into the water, which may be unsafe for your dog.
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Avoid fragile ornaments: Myriam advises, “Place ornaments and decorations higher up on the tree to prevent pets from chewing or swatting at them. Opt for unbreakable ornaments to prevent accidents.”
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Ditch the tinsel: Tinsel may look beautiful, but it’s a choking hazard. Myriam notes, “Tinsel, ribbons, and garlands are attractive but dangerous for both dogs and cats, as they can be ingested, causing blockages or choking.”
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Choose LED lights: These stay cooler than traditional bulbs, reducing the risk of burns if your dog gets curious.
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Use barriers: For some dogs, a playpen or baby gate may be required to keep them away from the tree, at least when you aren’t there to supervise.
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Avoid candles: Myriam explains, “While candles create a cozy ambiance, they can be dangerous for pets, especially cats who might be attracted to the flickering light. Opt for flameless LED candles instead.”
How to Keep Dogs Away from Christmas Tree
Keeping dogs away from your Christmas tree can feel like a battle of wills, but with a few strategies, you can once again have a holiday season filled with peace (and an intact tree). Myriam shares that puppy training and preparation are key: “Training your pets to stay away from the Christmas tree without barriers requires patience and consistent positive reinforcement.”
Here’s how to do it:
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Positive reinforcement training: Myriam explains, “Teaching the 'leave it' or 'no' commands can be very effective in stopping your dog from interacting with the tree. Offer rewards when they obey.” She goes on to say, “Reward your dog when they show interest in the tree but do not engage with it.”
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Distract and redirect: A shiny new chew toy or interactive dog toy can work wonders when you’re trying to keep your dog entertained. When your dog starts eyeing the tree, redirect their attention to something more acceptable. Consider a new Earth Rated enrichment toy to help keep your dog distracted.
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Set boundaries around the tree: You want to set your dog up for success by setting a clear boundary around the tree when you cannot supervise directly. Myriam advises, “Especially in the early stages, closely supervise your pets around the tree.”
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Create a safe environment: Consider anchoring your tree so even the most enthusiastic zoomies won’t bring it down.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats the Tree
Christmas trees aren’t toxic for dogs, though that doesn't make them completely harmless either. Here’s what to do if your dog decides to take a bite out of the Christmas tree:
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Check for symptoms: Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms, like drooling or lethargy. Watch for other symptoms your dog might need emergency care for, like difficulty breathing. Learn what unhealthy dog poop looks like so you can keep an eye on this, too.
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Identify what they ate: Exactly what part of the tree your dog ate is important. Was it a pine needle, an ornament, or some tree water? You’ll need to relay this information to your veterinarian.
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Contact your vet: If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline at 1-888-426-4435.
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Prevent future incidents: Consider placing a baby gate or playpen so that your dog cannot access the tree and eat it, especially when you cannot supervise them directly.
Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...
Christmas trees are a festive part of the holiday season. But they can come with a few safety concerns for your pup. Consider securing the tree so that it doesn’t topple over and dog-proofing your decorations.
For dogs that are particularly curious, special training may be needed. Using positive reinforcement and providing distractions can go a long way to keeping your dog safe.
Explore our line of dog toys to find your dog’s next Christmas gift!
