Johnston Veterinary Clinic issues Christmas warning: Chocolate and raisins are harmful to dogs

Johnston Veterinary Clinic is urging dog owners to take extra care this festive season as chocolate and raisins, two ingredients found in many Christmas treats, can be highly toxic to dogs.

Every year, thousands of dogs across the UK require emergency veterinary care after eating these foods, and the risk increases significantly during the holidays.

Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical similar to caffeine, which dogs cannot process effectively. Even small amounts can cause serious illness. Raisins, along with grapes and currants, are alsodangerous and can lead to kidney failure if ingested.

These ingredients are common in advent calendars, desserts, chocolate tubs, Christmas cake, Christmas pudding and mince pies, making the festive period a high-risk time for pets.

“Dogs are opportunists when it comes to food,” says Sonia O'Hara, Senior Practice Director at Johnston Veterinary Clinic. “With so many tempting treats around the home, it’s easy for pets to get hold of something harmful. Prevention is always better than cure.”

Owners are advised to keep all festive foods well out of reach. Advent calendars should be hung on walls rather than placed on low surfaces, and chocolate tubs, sweet bowls, and cakes should be stored on high shelves or countertops. Dogs should never be given chocolate or raisins as a treat, no matter how small the amount.

If a dog eats chocolate or raisins, owners should call their vet immediately, even if the dog appears fine. Symptoms can take up to four hours to appear and may include vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, muscle tremors, seizures, a fast heart rate, excessive drinking, drooling, unsteady walking, and rapid breathing. These signs indicate that urgent veterinary attention is needed.

Johnston Veterinary Clinic provides emergency cover throughout the festive season and uses a chocolate toxicity calculator to assess the level of risk based on the type and amount of chocolate consumed. Treatment may involve inducing vomiting to remove toxins and monitoring the dog for up to 48 hours. In most cases, dogs make a full recovery if treated promptly, but delays can lead to serious complications.

“Christmas should be a time of joy, not worry,” adds Sonia O'Hara. “By keeping harmful foods out of reach and acting quickly if an accident happens, owners can ensure their pets stay safe and healthy.”

Johnston Veterinary Clinic encourages clients to contact them and book an appointment if they have any concerns over their pet at any time.