Christmas With Greyhounds
Dec 11, 2025
With the Christmas season upon us, it’s time to start thinking about celebrating—but with our furry friends in mind. The advice to come is not just for greyhounds but can be applied to pets of all shapes and sizes!
We all want to spoil our little loved ones over Christmas, but we need to be mindful of gifts they will love versus what we will love.
Things they will love:
Christmas Treats: dog biscuits, pigs’ ears, roo tendons, goat horns, raw bones
Festive Toys: squeaky toys, ropes, chew toys
Things you will love:
Clothes & Coats: Blankets by Bec, Houndtees, Oboe and Piccolo, Annie’s Coats, and more
Festive Headwear: Headbands and accessories from stores like Kmart and TK Maxx
Just like us, there are some things doggos should avoid at Christmas time—though they may try to get into them anyway!
⮽ Bad Treats
Many big brands bring out fun Christmas-themed treats, especially rawhide products, but these can be extremely dangerous. Rawhide can cause digestive blockages, is often treated with harsh chemicals, and can become a choking hazard.
Realistically, no matter how careful we are, dogs often manage to sneak a taste of our Christmas food. Some things are safe in moderation, such as:
- roast meat
- watermelon
- apple
- vegetables without onion or garlic
Some foods are technically safe but can still upset a dog’s stomach:
- gravy
- ham (very salty!)
- bread
- potatoes
And of course, some foods must be avoided at all costs:
- onion & garlic
- grapes / sultanas
- alcohol
- chocolate
- cooked bones
Cooked bones are especially risky—they splinter easily and can cause serious internal injury. With so much delicious food around during the festive season, stay extra diligent. And remember… greyhounds are tall enough to see (and reach!) the top of the kitchen counter.
☑ Good Treats
Look local! With so many pet-food butchers and market vendors popping up, you can get quality treats while supporting small businesses. Our friends over at Fresh Pet Food Co have great deals on raw bones. These are usually more affordable, healthier, and much safer. Just remember: treats should always be given in moderation.
⮽ Bad
Cheap, novelty toys from bargain stores can be tempting, but many are poorly made and break apart easily—creating choking or ingestion hazards. Toys with glued-on eyes, loose stuffing, or fragile plastic pieces are a no-go. Avoid anything that feels flimsy or that your greyhound could destroy in minutes.
It’s also important to remember that Christmas decorations are not toys. Tinsel, baubles, ribbons, gift wrap, and other sparkly décor can be especially dangerous. Tinsel and ribbon can cause serious internal blockages if swallowed, baubles can shatter and cut mouths or paws, and many decorations are coated in glitter or paint that isn’t pet-safe. Greyhounds are curious and tall enough to reach the tree—so keep décor well out of snout-height where possible!
☑ Good
Look for toys designed for durability: heavy-duty ropes, tough rubber chew toys, and squeak toys made specifically for strong chewers. Brands that advertise safety-tested materials or reinforced stitching are ideal. Bonus points if you buy from local makers or pet stores that support rescue groups.
⮽ Bad
Avoid cheaply made pet clothing that fits poorly, restricts movement, or uses materials that can irritate the skin. Costumes with dangling parts, tight elastic, or sequins can become a hazard if chewed or caught on something.
☑ Good
Choose well-fitted, comfortable coats designed for greyhound shapes—ones that allow natural movement, keep them warm, and wash easily. Support small businesses like Blankets by Bec, Houndtees, Oboe and Piccolo, and Annie’s Coats, all of which make quality, reliable greyhound wear. These are gifts both you and your hound will love.
⮽ Bad
While adorable, many holiday headbands and novelty hats are uncomfortable, tight, or made with cheap materials that can fall apart. Anything held on with thin elastic bands can rub behind the ears or under the chin.
☑ Good
Look for soft, adjustable, pet-safe headwear—or skip headwear entirely if your dog dislikes it. Opt for lightweight clips, snoods, or simple bandanas from pet-friendly brands. Stores like Kmart and TK Maxx have fun options, but always check for comfort and safety before popping anything on your pup.
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