Have a dog-friendly Christmas!

Christmas is nearly here, and we couldn't be more excited here at Hubble & Hattie HQ! There's still lots to do, though, before the Big Day, and top of the list is making sure our dogs have just as much fun as we do!
Take a look at these great tips to ensure your dog is safe and happy over the festive period...
 
Treat time
It might be tempting to share your Christmas dinner with your dog, but remember, many things that we find delicious are toxic to our canine chums! Make sure goodies such as chocolate, raisins, and grapes are all out of reach, as well as anything that might contain onion (stuffing and gravy are the main culprits at this time of year), as these are also harmful to dogs. Remember, too, that turkey bones, like chicken bones, can splinter inside your dog's stomach and do lots of damage, so keep these safely out of reach!

Holiday hazards
Dogs are always on the lookout for delicious things to chew, whether or not these be food! Festive plants like mistletoe and poinsettias are poisonous to dogs, so keep these well clear, or opt for artificial alternatives. They'll last longer, and they're a lot safer for your dog.
If you have a real Christmas tree, watch out for pine needles on the floor, as they can get stuck in your dog's paws and be very uncomfortable. If you're weighing down the base of your tree with water to keep it fresh, make sure your dog doesn't have access to it, since the sap from the pine tree is toxic.
Keep an eye on things that your dog might consider fun to chew or play with – children's toys, fairy lights, tinsel, baubles ... all things that might appeal to your dog, but could do some serious damage!

Walkies in a winter wonderland 
Winter walkies are a lot of fun, but look out for frozen-over ponds and other bodies of water, and ensure you and your dog take care not to fall in!
Dogs find antifreeze delicious; however it's highly toxic and potentially deadly, so make sure your dog doesn't come across it when de-icing the car.
Be aware that the grit used to make roads and pathways safe to walk on can dry out and irritate your dog's paws, and can be harmful if ingested. Make sure your dog's feet are grit-free and clean when you return from your walk.

Set in their ways 
It's not unusual for routine to go out the window at this time of year ... and this can confuse and upset your dog, especially if he or she is a bit older. Try to stick to the usual meal and exercise times, and go easy on the doggy treats!
It's also a good idea to have somewhere quiet that your dog can go to if there are a lot of people around – particularly if you're expecting there to be lots of noise and excitement.