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A tan and white mixed-breed dog sits beside a table holding a decorated gingerbread house, with a lit tree behind. 12 / 25

A Rescue Mutt Gave the Gingerbread House a Very Close Inspection

AI imagerescue muttchristmasgingerbread house

A tan and white mixed-breed rescue dog sits next to a table, nose lifted toward a decorated gingerbread house. The little house has white icing trim, candy decorations and a snowy roof, and the dog's amber eyes are fixed on it with deep interest. Behind them, a Christmas tree twinkles, a plush toy sits on the couch and a green throw lies in a heap.

Gingerbread houses are fun to make but not great for dogs. They're often decorated with sugar, icing and candy, and some candies contain chocolate or xylitol, both of which are dangerous for dogs. Gingerbread may also contain spices such as nutmeg, which can upset a dog's stomach. Keep the house on a high shelf or in the center of a table where nosy dogs cannot reach, and call your vet if your dog eats any.

Mixed-breed dogs come in every shape, size and personality, and many rescue dogs are especially loyal. Adult dogs often settle into a new home quickly, and many are already house-trained. If you're thinking about adopting, shelters and rescues are happy to match you with a dog who fits your lifestyle.

This dog looks like he's carefully evaluating the architecture. The house is safe for now, and a dog-friendly treat might be waiting nearby. A quick sniff, a thoughtful stare and a happy tail wag round out the review.

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