Written by: Juliette, The Little White Dog

The gingerbread Christmas decor trend for 2024 brings a cozy, nostalgic twist to holiday decor, making it as delightful for pets and our people. This year, we are seeing gingerbread-inspired everything—from gingerbread doghouses to plush gingerbread toys and ginger treats for us to charming gingerbread-themed ornaments, wreaths, and festive kitchen decor for the home. Most of us would be happy to sport a gingerbread collar or scarf, but would would rather be eating than making a fashion statement.

Most years it is all about the pumpkin, but this year Gingerbread is making it big and I am not going to lie, I am a Gingerbread kinda gal. The tantalizing spices, the rich dough and chomping that little Gingerbread Boy is pretty fun too!!! In this article we will go back in time and dive into the history of gingerbread, the don’ts when it comes to feeding gingerbread to dogs, and some fun gingerbread ideas you are going to love to make and give this season.

By the Middle Ages, European crusaders introduced ginger to Europe, leading to the creation of spiced honey cakes that evolved into early gingerbread. In the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I added a decorative twist by crafting gingerbread “men” for visiting dignitaries, setting a trend for shaped gingerbread treats. The tradition of gingerbread houses began in Germany in the 1800s, inspired by the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale, and soon became a holiday custom across Europe and the Americas. Today, gingerbread remains a festive favorite worldwide, enjoyed in various forms and elaborate, decorated houses.

While ginger is good for both humans and in small amounts for four legged pups like us, nutmeg is another story and should never used when making dog-friendly gingerbread treats. Small amounts of ginger are great for reducing our inflammation and help our digestive properties and sometimes it will help alleviate nausea, gas, and motion sickness for those long car rides. Ginger has the same benefits for cats, but the scent is pretty strong for sensitive kitties. As I mentioned nutmeg, which is a key ingredient it gingerbread, is not good for us, should never be used in baking for pets and you don’t want to feed us human gingerbread.

Jut to be clear, nutmeg is harmful to dogs because it contains a compound called myristicin, which can be toxic to us, especially in larger amounts. Ingesting nutmeg can cause symptoms such as increased heart rate, disorientation, high blood pressure, dry mouth, abdominal pain, and even seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to hallucinations, tremors, and central nervous system issues that may require veterinary intervention. While a small amount might not cause significant harm, it’s best to avoid giving us any foods containing nutmeg to ensure we are safe and sound.

Gingerbread is always popular during the holidays, but the benefits and tantalizing taste are perfect for pets year round. Whipping up a batch of Gingerbread Biscuits, Gingerbread Men Cookies, or a Gingerbread Doghouse is a fun way to celebrate pets on special occasions and every day. Just be careful not to feed pets too much of a good thing. Check with your veterknatiran to verify the right amounts for your pet.

So if you love Gingerbread as much as I do, now is the time to gather everything you need to make some yummy dog cookies, whip up a Gingerbread doghouse or make some kitty treats with wonderful ginger. Scroll down to take an even deeper dive into all things Gingerbread, pet and people.

Juliette is a passionate food writer with a taste for pet-friendly cuisine, specializing in gourmet pet treats, bakery goods, and DIY pet food stations. Her articles explore the latest trends in pet treats, uncovering unique pet food artisans and sharing delicious recipes that delight both pets and their owners.