Reviewed By Joana Garrido DVM
Are Christmas trees toxic to dogs? Certain types of wood used for Christmas trees are toxic to dogs. However, poisoning is not the only problem pet parents need to worry about with this popular holiday decoration.
What Types of Christmas Trees Are Toxic to Dogs?
Pine, fir, and spruce are natural Christmas tree varieties most commonly used. They pose harm to dogs due to their tree oils, which contain skin-irritating compounds.
If they touch your furry pal’s skin, contact dermatitis may occur. Rashes, itchiness, and a burning sensation will manifest on the affected area.
Ingestion of pine, spruce, or fir tree oils also causes gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Adverse effects like stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea are commonly observed.
Pawrents need to keep in mind that certain species of pine trees can induce other health problems. For instance:
- Ponderosa Pine Trees
These trees contain poisonous chemicals like socupressic acid and lignols in their pine needles and bark. They are found to cause miscarriage in livestock, including cattle and sheep.
Ponderosa pine tree’s abortive properties are not yet extensively studied in dogs. However, it would be best to avoid taking any risk. Do not use this tree as a Christmas decor, especially if you have a pregnant dam at home.
Although not a true pine variety, the yew is also used as a real Christmas tree. Unfortunately, it is highly toxic to dogs due to the naturally occurring alkaloid taxine found in its bark, fruits, leaves, and seeds.
Consuming any of these poisonous parts of the yew tree interferes with the central nervous system function of dogs. It is known to cause ailments like seizures, muscle tremors, and breathing difficulties. Without timely treatment, they can become life-threatening.
What Are Other Dangers of Natural Christmas Tree to Dogs?
Certain parts of a Christmas tree can also cause other problems for dogs, like:
Christmas Tree Water
Much like any plant, Christmas trees require watering to prevent their pine needles from wilting. However, soaking their trunk allows their natural oils to seep into the water.
Some people also add Christmas tree preservatives to the water, which are often made up of harsh chemicals. Ingesting water contaminated by these compounds can cause poisoning in dogs.
For this reason, Christmas tree stands must always be securely covered. You can use a tree skirt, towel, or aluminum foil.
Pine Needles
Pine needles have sharp points that can puncture your dog’s mouth and stomach when ingested. Know that real Christmas trees tend to shed some of their needles.
Hence, it is a good idea to place a barricade around the plant like a baby gate. This prevents pine needles from getting scattered all over your home and prevents your furry pal from eating them.
Even if you choose to use an artificial tree during Christmas, never leave your dog unattended around it. Its fake leaves are also choking hazards, which can induce oral injuries.
What Christmas Tree Decorations Can Harm Your Dog?
There are several hidden dangers in the Christmas tree to your canine companion. Knowing what they are helps you pet-proof effectively this holiday season.
1. Fairy Lights
The bright lights they emit can easily catch dogs’ attention, especially curious ones like puppies. They might try to chew on the electrical cords, putting them at risk of electrocution.
Just to be safe, avoid adorning the lower section of your Christmas tree with fairy lights. Use cable sleeves or ties to neatly arrange any loose wires.
2. Christmas Ornaments
Christmas balls, tinsels, hooks, and ribbons are dangerous choking hazards to your canine friend. Anything that is made of plastic or glass easily breaks when chewed, thereby potentially causing oral injuries.
Thus, opt for sturdier Christmas decors like wooden or cloth-based baubles. Similar to fairy lights, place them on the upper part of the Christmas tree where your furry pal cannot reach.
Avoid hanging edible items on the tree, such as candy canes, since most dogs are quickly tempted to get a taste of them. Know that many sweets contain a sugar substitute called xylitol, which is highly poisonous to dogs.
3. Christmas Presents
Placing gifts under the Christmas tree is a long-lived tradition in many families. However, it is dangerous to dogs as some presents have ribbons, strings, and other decors that can cause stomach blockage when eaten.
We suggest only taking out the gifts when it’s time to open them. Until then, put them in a locked room to prevent your pooch from getting his paws on them.
FAQs About Are Christmas Trees Toxic to Dogs
1. Can Dogs Be Around Live Christmas Trees?
Dogs can be around live Christmas trees, but their access to them must be strictly restricted. Ensure that the live trees are securely barricaded for their safety.
The most common wood varieties used contain toxic chemicals that can incite a variety of adverse reactions. Depending on the species, they can range from minor stomach upset to alarming neurological issues, such as seizures.
2. Are Pine Needles Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, pine needles are poisonous to dogs because they house volatile oils. These compounds are skin and stomach irritants; thus, consuming or coming into contact with them can make your furry pal sick.
Moreover, pine needles have sharp ends that easily pierce through the skin tissues. Ingesting them may lead pooches to sustain gastric and oral injuries.
3. Can Dogs Chew on Christmas Tree Wood?
No, dogs should not chew on Christmas tree wood. Its sap also has toxic oils, which trigger stomach and skin issues.
If your dog eats this part of the plant, an onset of intestinal blockage might be expected, especially if he ate large amounts.
4. Can Dogs Get Sick from Drinking Christmas Tree Water?
Yes, dogs can get sick from drinking Christmas tree water since it is contaminated by the plant’s toxins. Preservatives might also be mixed in the water, increasing its toxicity.
Thus, never leave the Christmas tree stand uncovered. Always place a tree skirt, towel, or aluminum foil on top of it to discourage your pet from drinking its water.
Conclusion
Are Christmas trees poisonous to dogs? Commonly used live Christmas trees such as pine, fir, and spruce are poisonous to canines because of their volatile oils. Eating them incites stomach upset while direct contact results in skin irritation.
Certain parts of these plants present other problems. For instance, their pine needles can cause abrasions and oral injuries.
With this in mind, always have a barrier like playpens around the Christmas tree to keep your pet safe from its dangers.
