Holiday Dog Safety Tips from Your Trusted Miniature Aussiedoodle Breeder in Post Falls, ID 🎄🐾

QueenBee - Miniature Aussiedoodle 'Santa' :-)

Ah, the holidays! That magical time of year filled with twinkling lights, delicious smells wafting from the kitchen, and, if you’re anything like me, a few sneaky paws trying to "help" with the holiday preparations. (RuBee and BaeBee, I’m looking at you!) But while the season brings joy and togetherness, it can also bring potential hazards for our canine companions.

As a proud breeder of Miniature Aussiedoodles at North Idaho Mini Aussiedoodles (NIMA) in Post Falls, ID, I’m passionate about not just raising happy, healthy pups but also helping you care for your furry family member year-round. So, let’s dive into some important holiday dog safety tips—because nothing says “Happy Holidays” like keeping your dog safe and your vet bills low!

1. Deck the Halls... Carefully 🎄Holiday Dog Safety Tips

Tinsel may look like the perfect shiny toy, but it’s a choking hazard waiting to happen. And those gorgeous poinsettias? They’re beautiful but mildly toxic to dogs (not to mention impossible to keep on the table with a curious pup around).

Pro Tip: Stick to dog-safe decorations or keep the breakables and edibles well out of reach. If QueenBee can resist them, so can your pup... maybe.

2. The Perilous Plate of Holiday Treats 🍗🍪Holiday Dog Safety Tips

Who can resist sneaking a treat under the table for those big, pleading eyes? (Guilty!) But remember, holiday staples like chocolate, raisins, and rich fatty foods are no-go zones for dogs. Even cooked bones, which might seem like a festive treat, can splinter and cause serious harm.

Humorous Reminder: Your dog may not appreciate kale, but trust me, it’s safer than Aunt Teresa’s double-fudge brownies.

3. Avoid the Wrapping Paper Fiasco 🎁Holiday Dog Safety Tips

Dogs love ripping into wrapping paper almost as much as they love the squeaky toy inside. But ribbons, bows, and gift tags? They’re like glittery traps for your pup’s digestive system.

Suggestion: Let them enjoy the unwrapping chaos, but keep an eye on what they’re chewing. And maybe offer a distraction—like one of those DIY puzzle toys we featured in a previous blog!

4. DIY Holiday Treats for Your Pup 🍪

The holidays are a great time to treat your dog to something special that’s also safe and healthy! Here’s a simple DIY holiday treat recipe your furry friend will love:

Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or a dog-safe alternative like oat flour)

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/2 cup water

  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix the pumpkin, peanut butter, and water in a bowl.

3. Gradually add the flour and cinnamon, stirring until combined.

4. Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes.

5. Place treats on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.

6. Let cool before serving.

   
   

These treats are easy to make and perfect for including your pup in the holiday spirit!

5. Keep an Eye on the Tree 🌟Holiday Dog Safety Tips

Your Christmas tree is basically the ultimate temptation: shiny baubles, dangling lights, and maybe even candy canes. But it’s also a hotspot for potential disasters. Broken ornaments, swallowed hooks, and even drinking stagnant tree water can cause problems.

Solution: Anchor your tree securely (trust me, it’s worth it), and skip edible ornaments. Your dog will thank you.

6. Visitors, Noise, and a Little R&R 🐾Holiday Dog Safety Tips

With all the holiday commotion, your dog might need a quiet place to retreat. Even the most social pups (like RuBee) can get overwhelmed by all the extra love.

Tip: Create a cozy space where they can relax, away from the hustle and bustle. Toss in their favorite blanket or toy for good measure..

BaeBee and QueenBee enjoying a relaxing fire :-)

Why This Matters to Me

As a breeder, I’ve seen firsthand how curious and mischievous pups can be—and that’s part of their charm! But it’s also why I take their health and safety so seriously. At NIMA, our Miniature Aussiedoodles are raised with love, care, and plenty of preparation to thrive in their forever homes.

Speaking of forever homes, we’re excited about our upcoming litter! QueenBee, our beautiful mama-to-be, is gearing up for her next heat cycle, and while her pups won’t arrive in time for the holidays, it’s never too early to start preparing to welcome a new furry friend. If you’re looking for a loyal, loving, and downright adorable companion, now’s the time to connect with us.

Let’s Keep This Holiday Happy and Healthy

Whether you’re celebrating with a new puppy or your tried-and-true furry friend, I hope these holiday dog safety tips help make the season brighter for everyone. Remember, your dog’s health and happiness are the best gifts of all (besides squeaky toys, of course).

🎄 Want to Learn More? 🐾

If you’re considering adding a Miniature Aussiedoodle to your family, or just want to learn more about our breeding program, we’d love to hear from you! Visit North Idaho Mini Aussiedoodles to learn about our upcoming litter, get valuable holiday dog safety tips, and reserve your perfect pup.

Here’s to a safe, joyful, and tail-wagging holiday season!