Prepare Your Dog for a Calm and Happy Christmas

The holiday season is a magical time filled with decorations, gatherings, and festive cheer. But for our dogs, all the excitement can sometimes be overwhelming. The sudden changes in environment, an influx of visitors, and new routines can disrupt their sense of calm. However, with a bit of preparation and a focus on positive exposure and experiences, you can ensure your best friend feels safe, happy, and included in all the festivities.

1. Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

During the holidays, having a calm retreat where your dog can relax is essential. Whether it’s their crate, a quiet room, or a cozy corner with their favourite bed and toys, this space should be free from holiday chaos.

Tips for Creating a Safe Space:
• Introduce the space early: Start guiding your dog to their designated calm area well before Christmas. Reward them with treats and praise when they choose to rest there, so they associate it with positive feelings.
• Maintain familiarity: Use their favourite blanket or toy to make it extra comforting. The familiar scent will help your dog feel secure amidst the holiday changes.

2. Practice Positive Reinforcement with New Experiences

The holiday season introduces new sights, sounds, and smells that can be overwhelming for dogs. Instead of forcing your dog to interact with unfamiliar decorations, guests, or costumes, use positive reinforcement to make these experiences enjoyable.

How to Use Positive Reinforcement:
• Introduce decorations gradually: Let your dog sniff new decorations before putting them up. Praise and reward them with treats for calm behavior around these new items.
• Sound desensitisation: Play holiday music or sounds like doorbells at a low volume, gradually increasing it over time. Reward your dog for staying calm, helping them get used to the noise before the big day.

3. Set a Routine for Calmness

While the holidays are a time for fun, maintaining a routine helps your dog feel grounded. Regular walks, playtime, and feeding schedules provide a sense of normalcy and prevent stress.

Tips for a Calm Routine:
• Exercise before events: A tired dog is a calm dog. Take your dog for a walk or engage in a fun play session before guests arrive. This will help burn off excess energy, making them more likely to relax later.
• Incorporate relaxation time: Set aside quiet moments throughout the day where you can practice calm behaviors with your dog. Use treats and soft praise to reward them for sitting quietly by your side.

4. Prepare Your Dog for Guests

If you’re expecting visitors, prepare your dog in advance to help them feel more comfortable with new faces. Not all dogs are naturally social, and even those who are may feel anxious with a sudden influx of people. Likewise, prepare your guests for how you would like your dog to be treated-ie, if you want your dog to practise clam greetings explain to guests that until your dog is calm they cant say hi.

Steps for Success:
• Practice greetings: Invite a few friends over in the weeks leading up to Christmas and practice calm greetings. Reward your dog for sitting or staying calmly when the doorbell rings or guests enter.
• Teach a ‘go to bed’ command: This command can be invaluable during busy times. Use positive reinforcement to train your dog to go to their designated calm space on cue when things get hectic.

5. Holiday Treats: Safety and Positive Rewards

The holidays often mean more food around the house, but not all of it is safe for dogs. Chocolate, grapes, mince pies and Christmas cake are very toxic and would require a trip to the vets if injested. Instead, prepare special dog-friendly treats to include your pup safely in the festivities.

Dog-Safe Treat Ideas:
• Frozen dog friendly peanut butter bites: Mix plain yogurt with peanut butter and freeze it in small molds. These treats can be a delicious and calming distraction.
• Christmas-themed puzzle toys: Stuff a toy with healthy treats like carrots, apples, or home made dog treats. This keeps your dog engaged and provides a positive outlet for their energy.

6. Give Your Dog Plenty of Attention

Amidst all the holiday preparations, it’s easy to get caught up in the to-do lists and forget to spend quality time with your dog. Ensure they get plenty of love and attention to help them feel secure during the festivities.

Ways to Show Extra Love:
• Cuddle sessions: Set aside time each day to cuddle, brush, or simply sit quietly with your dog. It’s a great way to bond and helps keep them calm.
• Engage in positive training: Incorporate short training sessions using treats to reinforce basic commands. This mental exercise can help tire them out and create a sense of accomplishment.

7. Watch for Signs of Stress

Dogs often show subtle signs when they’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Watch for signals like excessive panting, yawning, pacing, or lip licking. If you notice these behaviours, it’s time to give your dog a break in their calm space.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Stressed:
• Remove them from the situation: Guide them gently to their calm space with treats and soothing words. Let them relax and don’t force interactions if they seem uncomfortable.
• Offer a calming treat or toy: Chewing can be a natural stress reliever for dogs. Provide a chew toy or a safe treat to help them self-soothe.

Final Thoughts

The holidays are about making memories and sharing joy with loved ones, including our canine family members. By focusing on positive reinforcement and creating a calm, predictable environment, you can help your dog feel safe and happy during this busy season. With a bit of preparation, you can ensure a festive, stress-free holiday where everyone can relax and enjoy the celebration together.

Wishing you and your pup a wonderful and calm Christmas!