How to make a dog-friendly Christmas dinner for you and your pooch

Christmas is a time that should be celebrated by everyone, even our four-legged friends.

Now, more than ever, dogs are playing an important role in our lives and caring for these beloved pets helps us not just survive modern life, but thrive in it.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact on our daily lives, 79 per cent of pet owners admit that their dog has helped boost their mood during lockdowns. 

A study by dog food company tails.com found that two in five (44%) of British dog owners cook homemade meals for their dogs - and Christmas dinner is no exception. 

Even though dogs can’t join in with our Christmas drinks or tuck into a box of chocolates, there are still plenty of festive treats we can give them.

Tails.com have put together a guide to creating the most luxurious three-course Christmas meal which is perfectly safe for your dog to enjoy.

Starter

Salmon is one of the nation’s favourite starters on Christmas Day and fortunately, it’s also dog-friendly.

Salmon is not only an excellent source of protein, but it’s also packed with omega-3 fatty acids to support the immune system and keep their coat looking healthy.

Make sure any salmon you feed to your dog is fresh, unseasoned, and cooked through. While they might not get the full experience of luxury smoked salmon, this fishy treat is a brilliant, and beneficial way to keep your dogs included in the festive fun.

Main Course

Humans aren’t the only ones who get giddy at the thought of a traditional Christmas dinner and, even though your four-legged friend should avoid the homemade gravy, pigs in blankets and stuffing due to the ingredients and high salt content, there are still some Christmas dinner staples they can happily gobble up with you.

Turkey is arguably the best part of a Christmas dinner and is perfectly safe for dogs to eat as long as it’s unseasoned, off the bone, and not from the bird’s leg (the fatty bit).

Serve up the turkey alongside plain boiled potatoes and some boiled veggies such as carrots and parsnips for a tasty Christmas lunch.

Dessert

Chocolate and raisins are toxic for dogs - so the Christmas pudding and Yule Log are a definite no, however, that doesn’t mean your pooch needs to miss out.

Packed with antioxidants, a handful of fresh cranberries is perfect for the occasional festive treat - just avoid the cranberry sauce, as it can contain lots of added sugar.

To find out more about pet nutritions, visit the Tails.com website here.