Christmas Decorating with Your Australian Labradoodle: Tips for a Safe and Festive Holiday

‘Tis the season for picking out your Christmas tree, hanging ornaments, and setting up lights and decorations. Tree trimming with hot cocoa, festive music, and holiday cheer is a time for making beautiful memories as we prepare for the upcoming celebrations. But if you’re a dog owner, especially one with an Australian Labradoodle, it’s important to keep both your decorations and your furry friend in mind as you decorate your home for the holidays.

At Ashford Manor Labradoodles, we believe that safety and fun should go hand-in-hand. We want to make sure your Labradoodle stays happy and healthy throughout the season, while you can enjoy the magic of the holidays with your four-legged family member.

Trees and Garland

When you bring your tree into the house—whether real or artificial—be sure to clean up fallen needles promptly. These can be a choking hazard or cause digestive issues if swallowed by your dog. Additionally, a real tree may be sticky with sap, which can be irritating or toxic if ingested. To be extra cautious, keep the tree well-watered and be vigilant about cleaning up any debris that may fall to the floor.

If you have a curious Australian Labradoodle that likes to jump or climb, it’s essential to securely anchor the tree. Use a tree stand designed for stability, and if needed, consider placing a barrier or pet gate around the tree to keep your dog from getting too close.

Tip: Consider using a tree skirt to catch fallen needles or debris for easier cleanup!

Ornaments

Christmas ornaments are beautiful but can be dangerous for dogs who love to investigate everything with their mouths. Shiny baubles and dangling ornaments may be particularly enticing to your Labradoodle, but they can pose a choking hazard or even break if chewed.

To keep your pup safe, place the more delicate ornaments higher up on the tree, out of reach. Alternatively, you can opt for non-breakable ornaments for the lower branches, especially if your dog is still learning boundaries. Training your dog to leave the tree and its decorations alone is also a great way to reinforce good behavior during the holidays.

Pro Tip: Avoid ornaments that have small parts, such as hooks or ribbons, that could be swallowed.

Gifts

Who doesn’t love the excitement of presents under the tree? While they may seem like irresistible chew toys to your dog, shiny wrapping paper and colorful ribbons can be dangerous if ingested. Dogs, like children, may be curious about what’s wrapped up in those gift boxes, so be mindful of where you place your gifts.

To prevent your Labradoodle from getting too close to the presents, use a baby gate or playpen around the tree to limit access. This way, you can ensure both your decorations and your gifts remain intact until the big day.

Important Note: If you’re putting food items like chocolates or holiday treats under the tree, make sure they’re in secure containers that your dog can’t access. Some foods, like chocolate and raisins, are toxic to dogs.

Candles & Lighting

One of the joys of the holiday season is the warm glow of candles and festive lights. However, with wagging tails and curious noses, dogs can accidentally knock over candles, creating a fire hazard. It’s best to place candles on high, sturdy surfaces or use flameless LED candles to create the same cozy ambiance without the risk of fire.

Additionally, keep lights, especially electric ones, out of your dog’s reach. Make sure all cords are secure and not hanging where your dog might chew on them.

Safety Tip: Avoid using liquid potpourri or essential oil diffusers, as some oils can be toxic to dogs if they come in contact with their skin or eyes.

Holiday Foods to Avoid

While it’s tempting to share your holiday treats with your dog, many festive foods are dangerous or toxic to pets. Here are some foods to keep away from your Labradoodle:

• Chocolate: Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart problems in dogs.

• Grapes & Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs.

• Onions & Garlic: Both can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.

• Alcohol: Keep any holiday drinks out of reach, as alcohol can be highly toxic to dogs.

• Xylitol: This sugar substitute, often found in sugar-free gum and candies, can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels.

• Bones: They can be harmful as they can get stuck and dangerous coming back up or going through.

Tip: Make sure guests know not to feed your dog any scraps or leftovers without your permission.

Other Holiday Hazards to Keep in Mind

• Tinsel & Ribbons: These can be particularly dangerous if ingested. They can cause intestinal blockages or choking. Keep them out of your dog’s reach, or consider avoiding them altogether.

• Pine & Cedar: Some types of holiday greenery, such as pine and cedar, can cause skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues if chewed on by your dog.

• Ice Melt: Many people use salt-based ice melt on their walkways and driveways during the winter months, but this can be harmful to your dog’s paws and digestive system if licked off. Be sure to clean your dog’s paws after outdoor walks.

Conclusion:

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration—but it’s also important to keep your Labradoodle’s safety in mind while decorating your home. With a little preparation and some simple precautions, you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about your dog getting into mischief. Keep your tree secure, your ornaments out of reach, and your holiday foods safe from curious noses. That way, everyone—both human and canine—can enjoy a merry and stress-free holiday season!

Happy decorating, and remember: safety is key when celebrating the holidays with your Australian Labradoodle!