Christmas is a time for celebration, and we want our best friends to join in the joy! But the festivities can sometimes be overwhelming or even dangerous for our pups if we’re not prepared. Here are my top tips to ensure your dog has a happy and safe Christmas.
Stick to a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, and sticking to their usual walk, meal, and sleep times can help reduce stress during the festive chaos.
If you are normally going out to work, simply being home all day can mean they get much less rest. Less sleep can mean increased irritability and a decreased coping ability, a few days of this can have a big impact on your dog’s mood and behaviour.
Create a Safe Space
Every dog deserves a cosy haven where they can retreat when the festivities become too much. This could be their bed, crate, or favourite spot in the house. My own dog loves her safe spot under the kitchen table—especially when I’m cooking Christmas dinner.
- Add comfy bedding or blankets to make it snug.
- Build positive associations by offering toys, chews, or puzzle feeders in this space beforehand.
- Ensure all family members and visitors, especially children, understand that this is your dog’s place to relax undisturbed, and that they are not allowed to approach the dog while in there.
Dressing Up: Just Say No!
As tempting as it is to pop a Santa hat on your pup for the perfect photo, many dogs find dressing up stressful. Even taking photos can be unsettling for some dogs, so always ensure they’re comfortable.
Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards
Poisonous Plants
Festive favourites like holly, mistletoe, ivy, poinsettias, lilies, amaryllis and pot-pourri are all toxic to dogs. Keep them out of reach!
Alcohol
Even small amounts of alcohol can be extremely harmful to pets. Ensure no glasses or bottles are left unattended.
Christmas Trees, Decorations, and Wrapping
- From dropped pine needles to shiny wrapping paper and batteries, there are countless potential dangers.
- Protect the tree and gifts with a puppy guard or keep your dog on a lead in the room.
- Consider more pet friendly tree varieties such as white pine or Douglas fir – they don’t’ stick to paws as much.
- Don’t use the preservatives to extend the tree’s life – these are very toxic to animals.
- Keep an eye on electrical cables, candles, and other decorations.
Foods to Avoid
Many holiday treats are toxic to dogs, including:
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is poisonous. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.
- Dried fruits and nuts: Raisins, sultanas, currants, and macadamia nuts can cause severe health issues.
- Sweets: Xylitol, a common sweetener, is highly toxic to dogs.
Visitors – possibly the biggest stressor of all
Extra people visiting, especially children, can be a real struggle for some dogs.
- Use that Safe Haven – your dog may prefer being in a different, quiet room, even if it’s just some of the time.
- Noisy and boisterous young children can be quite frightening to our more introverted pooches.
- Watch out at the door, all the comings and goings means it would be easy for your dog to slip out unnoticed – always make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date.
Sensory overload
If you have a reactive or sensitive dog, Christmas time can easily create sensory overload, for example:
- Sights – lights, decorations, tree, visitors moving around, lots of cleaning beforehand, hoover etc., moved furniture
- Smells – Cooking, scented candles, cleaning products, perfume
- Sounds – talking, laughing, music, TV, bells, door bell/knocking
Think ahead about how best to manage this for your dog – it’s their home too.
Safe Festive Fun
Good news—your dog doesn’t have to miss out on all the fun! They can enjoy a small portion of Christmas dinner. A little turkey meat (no bones!), veggies, and onion-free gravy will make their day extra special.
Provide safe presents for them to unwrap, using plain paper only (no glitter or tape).
A Merry and Safe Christmas for Everyone!
With a bit of planning and these tips in mind, your dog can enjoy a stress-free, fun-filled Christmas alongside the whole family.
Have a great one!!
