The holidays bring us incredible meals, but many traditional dishes can cause digestive upset or severe discomfort in dogs. Vets see a major spike in holiday-related tummy issues every year, mostly because dogs get into foods that are too rich, too seasoned, or simply unsafe for their digestive systems.
Below are the top holiday foods that can harm your dog, and why they should be kept far out of reach during the festive season.
1. Turkey Skin & Fatty Meats
Turkey skin, dark meat, and heavily seasoned pieces are too rich for most dogs. These high-fat foods often lead to stomach upset, loose stool, vomiting, or inflammation.
2. Ham, Bacon & Sausages
Holiday hams and cured meats contain large amounts of salt, fat, and spices. Dogs react quickly to these ingredients, and digestive issues often appear within hours.
3. Stuffing & Savory Sides
Stuffing and many side dishes include onions, garlic, butter, and herbs. Even small quantities of these ingredients can irritate the stomach and affect digestion.
4. Gravy & Rich Sauces
Gravy is one of the biggest holiday triggers for dogs — it’s oily, salty, and seasoned. Many dogs experience sudden vomiting or loose stool after eating it.
5. Holiday Desserts & Chocolate
Chocolate, sugar-heavy desserts, dairy-based sweets, and anything containing artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol) can be tough on a dog’s digestive system.
6. Raisins, Grapes & Fruitcakes
These are among the most dangerous holiday foods for dogs. Even minimal amounts can cause serious health concerns.
7. Alcoholic Desserts & Fermented Dough
Rum cakes, alcohol-infused treats, and rising dough should always be kept away from dogs. These items can expand in the stomach or create toxic reactions.
8. Turkey or Ham Bones
Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injury. Even chewing on them can lead to digestive blockages or discomfort.
9. Dairy-Heavy Holiday Dishes
Many popular holiday foods — mashed potatoes, creamy casseroles, mac & cheese — contain dairy. Most dogs are sensitive to dairy, and it often leads to gas, diarrhea, or bloating.
10. Nuts (Especially Macadamia Nuts)
Macadamia nuts can cause severe reactions in dogs, and other nuts are generally too high in fat to be digested comfortably.
Holiday Gut Stress Is Extremely Common
Along with heavy foods, your dog may also be dealing with:
Extra noise
New visitors
Changes in routine
Travel or new environments
Overexcitement
All of these can contribute to gut imbalance, loose stool, reduced appetite, or general digestive discomfort.
That’s why the holidays are one of the most common times for dog parents to reach for digestive support.
How Intesto-Guard Can Help Support Your Dog’s Gut During the Holidays
Holiday food exposure + stress + routine changes = a sensitive gut. Intesto-Guard is formulated to support normal digestive function in dogs through probiotics, prebiotics, and IGY.
Here’s when each product is most helpful:
Probiotic Powder (Daily Maintenance Support)
Use this when your dog needs:
Ongoing, daily gut balance
Support during routine changes
Help maintaining stool quality
Immune and digestive support during the busy season
Perfect for: holiday stress, visitors, travel, and everyday gut maintenance.
Probiotic Paste (Fast, Short-Term Support)
Use this when your dog needs quick digestive support, such as:
Sudden loose stool
Sensitive stomach episodes
After eating something rich or greasy
During travel or high-stress situations
Paste = rapid support
Powder = daily balance
Many pet parents keep both on hand during the holidays.
Important Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional veterinary guidance.
Always consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog’s health, medical history, and individual needs.
Ready to support your dog's gut and health? Try Intesto-Guard products today.