Safety · October 28, 2026 · 8 min read
Día de Muertos with dogs: keep the ofrenda out of reach
Raise the ofrenda, replace flames when possible, and clear plates before opening access. The dog can join from a quiet area.
An ofrenda can be irresistible to a dog: it smells like food, contains new objects, and draws the family's attention. Put it on a sturdy table or behind a barrier that keeps working when nobody is watching.
| Raise | Place the ofrenda on a stable base or behind a barrier. |
|---|---|
| Protect | Choose LED candles and secure cords and table coverings. |
| Supervise | Remove chocolate, alcohol, sweets, bones, and wrappers. |
| Next step | Set up water, a bed, and rest away from busy visitors. |
The FDA's warning notes about celebration hazards including chocolate, xylitol products, alcohol, grapes, and raisins. Bones, skewers, foil, and wrappers can also injure a dog after being swallowed.
Build the altar beyond the dog's actual reach
A high table is not enough for a dog that climbs, pushes chairs, or reaches with its paws. Secure cords, avoid open flames, and keep chocolate, alcohol, xylitol, grapes, raisins, and bones in closed containers. Check flowers, vase water, and small decorations that could be swallowed.
Prepare a separate area with a bed, water, and a safe activity when visitors arrive. If ingestion is possible, keep the package and call the veterinarian. Do not wait for symptoms or induce vomiting on your own. FDA notes that toxicity depends on the product, amount, and animal.
Sources consulted
Adapted from FDA recommendations for preventing food, decoration, and household hazards during celebrations.
