If you plan to adopt or have recently adopted a new puppy, you’re likely wondering if it will be safe to set up a Christmas tree this holiday season. After all, puppies have accidents, make a mess, and chew on, well, just about anything!
The good news is that you can still have a festive holiday season, even with a puppy. Although it’s not safe to leave a puppy unattended with a Christmas tree, you can take measures to puppy-proof your tree or keep your puppy away from the tree altogether. Alternatively, you can set up a miniature Christmas tree on a shelf that’s out of reach of your pet.
By taking a few precautions, you can enjoy the holiday season knowing your new puppy is safe from harm. Here’s everything you need to know about puppies and Christmas trees.
Christmas Trees and Puppies – A Dangerous Combination
Puppies are a lot like toddlers. Although you can leave older puppies alone for short periods of time, their playful spirit can still get them into trouble. This is especially true with Christmas trees and holiday decorations.
But what makes Christmas trees so dangerous for puppies? Let’s look at the different types of Christmas trees and why they can be unsafe for your pet.
Are Real Christmas Trees Safe for Puppies?
Whether you have a spruce, a fir, or another type of evergreen, it’s never safe to leave a puppy unattended in a room with a real Christmas tree. Here are 3 hazards to watch out for.
Pine Needles
Fallen pine needles may seem like a good snack to your puppy, but when swallowed, tree needles can irritate the mouth and stomach. In severe cases, pine needles can even block or puncture your puppy’s intestinal tract.
Tree Stand Water
The water in your Christmas tree stand may be tempting for an inquisitive puppy, but drinking it can be dangerous. This is especially true if you use fertilizer in your tree’s water, as it can contain harmful chemicals that are toxic to your pet.
Tree Sap
While pine tree sap may give off a pleasant, nostalgic scent, it can be poisonous for your puppy, especially if ingested in large quantities. Additionally, sap in your puppy’s fur can irritate its skin and may even cause an allergic reaction.
Are Artificial Trees Safe for Puppies?
You may wonder, is a fake tree a safe alternative for my puppy? While an artificial tree certainly carries fewer risks than a real one, there are still opportunities for your puppy to get into trouble.
Plastic
Over time, the plastic pieces on your artificial tree may break down and drop to the floor. These small plastic pieces, if eaten, can block or puncture your puppy’s digestive tract.
Fake Snow
Many artificial Christmas trees come adorned with a dusting of fake snow. Fake snow is usually only mildly toxic to dogs, but it can also cause blockages in your puppy’s digestive system if eaten in large quantities.
Other Safety Considerations
Ornaments
Playful puppies often mistake cherished ornaments for toys. These fragile keepsakes can break and pose a choking risk.
Gifts
Christmas gifts placed beneath the tree pose a great risk to young puppies. If left to their own devices, puppies may chew and ingest wrapping paper, bows, and ribbon, all of which can cause digestive problems.
Electrical cords
Electrical cords pose serious dangers to puppies that like to chew. Damaged cords can cause electrical shock, oral injury, and even fire.
String lights
String lights may be enticing to a curious puppy, but chewing on lights can cause choking, digestive problems, and mouth injuries.
Tinsel
Like other shiny tree decorations, tinsel is alluring to a curious puppy. If ingested, it can lead to serious digestive blockages that require surgery to remove.
Candles
An excited puppy can knock over lit candles, which can start a fire within your home. Not to mention, your puppy may be curious about the flickering light and stick his muzzle too close to the flame.
How to Have a Christmas Tree with a Puppy—The Safe Way
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Create a Puppy Proof Christmas Tree
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Keep it Sturdy
Whether you have a real tree or an artificial one, it’s important to fix your tree so it won’t tip over onto your puppy. Make sure to tighten your tree stand hardware completely, and as an extra precaution, use a fishing line to secure your tree to the wall.
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Keep the Floor Clear
Regularly sweep the area around your Christmas tree to remove fallen needles, gift wrapping, ribbon, and other festive debris. If you have string lights, regularly check the cords for chewing damage.
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Decorate High Up
Instead of decorating the entire tree, opt for placing ornaments on the top half of the tree, out of reach of your pet.
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Skip the Tinsel
If you normally decorate your tree with tinsel, try switching to a less enticing alternative, like twine.
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No Treats on the Tree
While popcorn strings and candy canes may look festive on your tree, they can become a major temptation for your dog. Skip food items as decoration completely, and opt for safer alternatives.
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Keep Your Puppy Away From the Christmas Tree
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Put Up Pet Gates
Set up a pet gate at the entrance to the room to prevent your puppy from getting anywhere near the Christmas tree. Just make sure the pet gate is secure and your puppy can’t find a way through.
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Create a Barrier Around the Tree
To keep your puppy away from the Christmas tree, create a barrier around the tree itself using pet gates or a small playpen. Make sure the gates are secure and tall enough to prevent your curious puppy from climbing over.
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Put the Christmas Tree in a Separate Room
One of the best ways to keep your puppy safe this Christmas is to set up your tree in a separate room. You’ll still be able to enjoy the tree, but you can close your puppy out of the room when needed.
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Keep Your Puppy in Your Sights
It can’t be overstated that puppies require a high level of supervision, especially around the holidays. If you choose to decorate your home with a Christmas tree, make sure your puppy is always within sight.
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Wear Out Your Puppy
If young puppies don’t get enough playtime, they’ll look for other ways to expend their energy, like attacking the tree or chewing on decorations. Make sure to give your puppy plenty of playtime this holiday season.
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Enjoy a Smaller Christmas Tree
Christmas trees are a wonderful holiday tradition, but if you’re still worried about your puppy’s safety, you can opt for a miniature Christmas tree instead. Simply place the tree on a mantel or high shelf that’s out of reach of your puppy. While it won’t make as big of a statement as a full-sized tree, the peace of mind it provides will be well worth the switch.
Keep Your Puppy Healthy This Holiday Season
At Portage Animal Hospital, we prioritize pet safety. If you have any questions about your puppy’s safety, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts.
And if you’ve recently adopted a new furry friend, don’t skip out on the care they need! Sign up for our vet puppy package to ensure your pup starts off on the right paw with the proper vaccinations.
Call (773) 725-0260 to book your first appointment!
