Make Christmas Day Fun, Not Stressful, for You and Your Dog
Christmas Day presents unique challenges with a dog – especially if it’s a dog that’s new to your home. There is tons of activity going on that may not normally be around, lots of yummy new smells, and an abundance of new things on the floor. Let’s break down some scenarios to try and help you navigate the day so you can make happy memories!
T’was the Night Before Christmas…
Yes, I’m starting with the night before. Here are a few ideas to help prep for the big day:
- If you’re doing a “stocking” for them, put all the items in the stocking. Once it’s filled, be sure to put it up where they can’t sneak into it overnight 😉
- Put some peanut butter in a Kong, and freeze it. Do more than one if you are going to have a long day of activities.
- If you’re in warmer climates (or your dog just likes cold treats), freeze some treats or food in water to make an ice toy.
Related: 5 Tips to Help You Prepare for Christmas with a Dog
Christmas Morning – Santa Paws Came!
Whether you have kids that open presents, or it’s just you and your fur-baby, these tips can help you get through the morning a little smoother:
- When you’re ready to start opening festivities, pull out their stocking. DON’T GIVE THEM EVERYTHING AT ONCE! Give one toy or treat at a time over the course of the morning. That way they don’t get “bored” too quickly (like the kids can get sometimes!). You may also want to save one for later when you eat…
- Get the frozen Kong out and give it to them if you need them to stay occupied for a longer period of time. Whether that is while you’re opening presents or having Christmas breakfast.
- If the weather’s nice, and you want your dog outside for awhile, get the frozen treat out and let them play with it outside (it might get too messy in the house).
- If your dog really can’t keep their nose out of presents, put them in their kennel if you’re worried about them swallowing something they shouldn’t.
- Use the “Place” command if you need to keep them out of the middle of things. Give them one of their treats or toys to keep them occupied.
Christmas Goodies – Time to Eat!
If you’re like our family, meals (and mealtimes) are a little different on Christmas Day. Whenever you are eating, these tips can help keep your dog from getting in trouble:
- Use the “Place” command to keep your dog away from the table, and any food that may fall. Some of the foods we treat ourselves to this time of year can be harmful to your dog.
- Give them something to do while you eat. One of their new chewable toys, a Kong filled with frozen peanut butter, an interactive toy (snuffle mat, for example).
- If your dog is really persistent, you can always put them in their crate with a treat.
Need a list of foods that can be harmful to your dog? Find one here.
Here We Come a-Wassailing – When Friends and Family Stop By
If you’re having friends and/or family stop by this year, whether for a meal or just to drop in, be sure your dog is ready.
- Use a “Wait” or “Place” command and keep them back away from the door as guests come in.
- Keep them on a leash if you don’t have a “Wait” command established so they don’t run out.
- Make them sit/stay before getting any attention to prevent jumping.
- Keep your dog off the furniture so guests have a place to sit. If they want to invite your dog up, leave it up to them.
We hope these tips will help make your Christmas holiday a safe and happy one!
Need help with teaching any of these tips? Give us a call!
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