Life with Dogs

March 2026 •5 min read

Easter in Copenhagen tends to mean a few predictable things: seasonal sweets, fresh flowers, guests coming and going, and longer walks as the light returns. For dogs, it also brings a handful of risks that are easy to overlook.

Here's a clear, practical guide to what's worth paying attention to.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and cocoa-heavy desserts are the most dangerous, but milk chocolate can still cause problems depending on the amount.

What to watch for

• Easter eggs and filled chocolates left within reach
• Chocolate desserts and baking
• Guests or children sharing food

Symptoms

Vomiting, restlessness, increased heart rate, in severe cases seizures.

What to do

Contact your vet immediately if your dog has eaten chocolate. If you need to find a local clinic quickly, you can browse our vet listings here.

Sweets and xylitol

Some sugar-free sweets and baked goods contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar.

What to watch for

• Sugar-free gum or sweets
• "No added sugar" desserts
• Food left in bags or coats

Symptoms

Weakness, loss of coordination, vomiting, in severe cases seizures.

What to do

Seek immediate veterinary help. You can find a nearby clinic via our vet listings if needed.

Spring flowers and bulbs

Easter often brings daffodils, tulips, and other seasonal flowers into the home. These are common across Denmark and can be harmful if chewed or ingested.

Common culprits

• Daffodils
• Tulips
• Lily of the valley

Bulbs are particularly toxic if dug up in gardens or planters.

Symptoms

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, in some cases heart or breathing issues.

Packaging and decorations

Foil, plastic wrapping, and ribbons tend to build up over the weekend. They often carry food smells, which makes them appealing to dogs.

What to watch for

• Chocolate wrappers
• Decorative ribbons
• Food packaging left within reach

These can lead to choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed.

Easter egg hunts

Egg hunts are common in shared courtyards, gardens, and parks. From a dog's perspective, it's food hidden at nose height.

Risks

• Finding and eating chocolate
• Swallowing wrappers
• Missed items left behind

If you're using public spaces like Fælledparken, it's worth checking the area afterwards to make sure nothing's been left behind.

Visitors and routine changes

More people at home, doors opening frequently, and changes to routine can lead to stress or accidental escapes.

What helps

• A quiet space where your dog can settle
• Asking guests not to feed the dog
• Keeping an eye on doors, especially in shared stairwells or courtyards

A quick checklist

• Keep chocolate and sweets out of reach
• Be mindful of sugar-free products containing xylitol
• Monitor access to flowers and bulbs
• Clear away packaging promptly
• Supervise dogs during Easter activities

The goal is straightforward: a calm, uneventful weekend where your dog can enjoy the extra time outside without getting into anything they shouldn't.