Preparing Your Dog for the Holidays: A Guide to Stress-Free Celebrations

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and festivities, but for your dog, the season can bring new challenges. From noisy gatherings to unfamiliar decorations, it’s important to prepare your dog to ensure they feel safe and happy during the celebrations. Here’s how to set your furry friend up for holiday success.  

 1. Create a Safe Space  

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be overwhelming for dogs. Create a quiet, comfortable retreat where your dog can relax away from the action. Stock it with their favorite bed, toys, and perhaps a calming diffuser. Let your dog access this space at their own will—it’s their sanctuary when things get too noisy or crowded.  

 2. Introduce Decorations Gradually  

Holiday decorations can be confusing for dogs. Introduce them slowly, especially if they’re shiny, noisy, or have moving parts. Allow your dog to sniff and investigate the new items at their own pace, and supervise them to ensure they don’t chew or ingest anything harmful.  

 3. Plan Ahead for Guests  

If you’re hosting guests, prepare your dog for increased activity in the house:  

• Practice polite greetings: Work on calm behavior when guests arrive, such as sitting instead of jumping.  

•  Set boundaries: Use baby gates or playpens to create guest free zones if needed.  

• Notify visitors: Inform guests about any rules for interacting with your dog, such as not feeding them table scraps or approaching them while they’re resting.  

 4. Stick to a Routine  

Amid the holiday excitement, try to maintain your dog’s usual feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule. A consistent routine provides structure and reassurance, especially when everything else seems different.  

 5. Be Mindful of Holiday Foods  

Holiday treats may be tempting for your dog, but many can be dangerous. Keep chocolate, alcohol, cooked bones, and rich foods like stuffing and gravy out of reach. Instead, offer dogsafe holiday treats like a Kong stuffed with peanut butter or a frozen bone broth cube.  

 6. Offer Mental Enrichment  

Keep your dog entertained during busy times with mental stimulation activities, such as:  

• Puzzle toys  

• Snuffle mats  

• Short training sessions  

These can help tire them out and reduce stress.  

 7. Prepare for Travel  

If you’re traveling with your dog, ensure they’re comfortable with the mode of transportation and the destination. Pack their essentials—food, water, medication, and comfort items—and make sure their ID tags and microchip information are up to date.  

 8. Know the Signs of Stress  

Dogs show stress in different ways, including:  

• Pacing or panting  

• Yawning or licking lips excessively  

• Tucked tail or pinned back ears  

If you notice these signs, remove your dog from the situation and allow them to decompress in their safe space.  

 9. Consider Professional Help  

If your dog has specific behavioral challenges, such as reactivity or fear around guests, consider reaching out to a certified dog behavior consultant. They can help develop a tailored plan to make the holidays enjoyable for everyone.  

 10. Practice Self Care  

Finally, remember that your dog picks up on your emotions. Take time to care for yourself and manage holiday stress—it’ll help create a calmer environment for your dog, too.  

By preparing your dog for the holidays, you can create a joyful and stressfree experience for the whole family. With a little planning, your furry friend can join in the festivities while staying happy and safe.  

Do you have questions about preparing your dog for the holidays? Reach out to Sits 'n Wiggles Dog Training for personalized support!