The Christmas treats that could kill your dog during the holidays

Pet owners are being warned to watch what they feed their furry friends this Christmas if they want to avoid a costly trip to the vet.

A recent national survey found that 69 percent of Aussies own pets and the majority will experience food poisoning at least once in their lives.

Six foods in particular are especially dangerous for dogs who often scavenge for scraps left over from festive feasts.

Even the traditional Christmas ham is considered extremely dangerous for dogs, which cannot process the large amounts of fats and preservatives.

Telling the difference between a treat and a trap will be key to avoiding vet bills over a hundred dollars this Christmas.

Pancreatitis is the most common condition reported among veterinarians during the holiday season. Experts warn that even simple foods can be poisonous to pets.

Here, Daily Mail Australia reveals the six most dangerous foods for your pets.

Even the traditional Christmas ham is considered extremely dangerous for dogs, which cannot process the large amounts of fats and preservatives (stock image)

Chocolate

The methylxanthines found in the cocoa seeds used to make chocolate are especially toxic to animals.

Just one block of milk or dark chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, shaking and staggering.

The darker the chocolate, the worse it is for your dog.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas

Grapes, both juicy and dried, can cause kidney damage in dogs.

Even when cooked into Christmas puddings, fruit tarts, other desserts or in sauces, a small amount is potentially dangerous.

Although vets don’t know why they are so toxic to animals, obvious symptoms such as vomiting, not eating and depression indicate that a dog is experiencing food poisoning.

Macadamias

Macadamias are not fatal to dogs, but they do cause serious discomfort to the animal.

When they eat, one or more symptoms appear, including weakness, vomiting, tremors and depression, which can last up to 48 hours.

Grapes, macadamias, fatty meats and chocolate can lead to trips to the vet that can cost owners hundreds of dollars (stock image)

Onions and garlic

Garlic, onions or even gravy containing onion powder can do this can potentially destroy red blood cells and cause anemia in pets.

Gastrointestinal complaints are also common after consumption.

Telltale signs that a dog has eaten one of these substances can include loss of appetite, weakness and lethargy, red or brown urine, vomiting and diarrhea, and even ataxia – the loss of muscle control in the arms and legs.

Cooked bones and fatty meat

Hams, leftovers, a skin like pork rinds, and anything else prepared specifically for a Christmas feast can also wreak havoc on your pet’s belly.

Because animals’ digestive systems are not equipped to handle the rich fats and preservatives they can develop pancreatitis.

Symptoms include loss of appetite, dehydration, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Xylitol

Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, is found in candies and processed pastries.

These sweets can lead to: very low blood sugar in animals and the symptoms, including lethargy, vomiting and ataxia, are severe.

If the sweetener is digested by animals, it can cause liver damage, seizures or death.