Tips for a safe holiday with your dog- Tis the season, & our dogs want to know WTH is going on??!!

Trainslation: *Woof the heck*

12/12/20232 min read

Holidays are a time for joy, but for our dogs, they can be a chaotic whirlwind of unfamiliar faces, strange decorations, and disrupted routines. If your dog is already prone to anxiety or nervousness, the festive season can be especially overwhelming. But fear not! With some planning and preparation, you can help your dog navigate the holidays without stress and enjoy the season together.

Creating a Safe Haven:

  • Build a Zen Den: This is a designated retreat where your dog can feel secure and comforted when things get overwhelming. Use a crate, a corner cordoned off with a baby gate, or an exercise pen. Fill it with familiar blankets, toys, and even your old clothes for a comforting scent.

  • Practice Positive Time Outs: Watch for signs of stress in your dog, such as head turning, shaking off, head down, or whale eye (showing the whites of their eyes). If you notice these, gently guide them to their Zen Den for a quiet break with treats and minimal interaction.

Keeping Your Dog Occupied:

  • Engage Their Minds: Provide interactive toys like puzzle feeders, Kongs, snuffle mats, or DIY alternatives like rolled-up towels filled with treats. This keeps them mentally stimulated and prevents boredom, which can lead to anxiety.

  • Exercise & Potty Breaks: Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise through walks, playtime, and regular potty breaks. This helps them burn energy and stay calm throughout the festivities.

Advocating for Your Dog:

  • Respect Body Language: Understand what your dog is trying to communicate through their body language. If they seem uncomfortable, give them space and avoid forcing interaction.

  • Introduce People Gradually: Don't overwhelm your dog with a sudden influx of guests. Allow them to approach new people at their own pace and avoid petting them on the head, which can be intimidating.

  • Set Boundaries: Inform guests not to feed your dog table scraps or holiday treats. Many festive foods, like turkey skin and xylitol, are toxic to dogs.

  • Limit Dog Interactions: During the current respiratory virus outbreak, it's best to minimize contact with unfamiliar dogs to protect their health.

Additional Calming Strategies:

  • Calming Devices: Consider using devices like Calmer Canine or Assisi Loop, which emit gentle frequencies that promote relaxation.

  • Calming Supplements: Just Food For Dogs "Calm" is a veterinarian developed calming supplement (Always Consult your veterinarian about safe and effective calming supplements for your dog)

  • Calming Aromatherapy: Diffuse lavender essential oil in a safe manner to create a calming atmosphere.

Things to Avoid:

  • Reaching Over Their Heads: This can be perceived as threatening and trigger anxiety.

  • Scolding or Punishing: This only reinforces negative feelings and ignores their communication.

  • Forcing Interaction: Respect your dog's boundaries and let them interact with people on their own terms.

  • Isolation: Confining them in a room away from the festivities can make them feel anxious and excluded.

  • Holiday Treats: Avoid giving your dog human food, especially fatty or sugary treats, which can cause digestive issues.

  • Interaction with Unfamiliar Dogs: Due to potential health risks, it's best to avoid close contact with unknown dogs during this time.

Remember:

  • Holidays are for everyone, including your furry family member. By being mindful of their needs and taking steps to reduce stress, you can help them enjoy the season too.

  • Pay attention to your dog's body language and respond accordingly.

  • Plan ahead and make preparations to ensure a safe and happy holiday for everyone.

Additional Resources:

Happy Holidays!

Erin Elizabeth

Pet Parent Life (Dog Training Near You)

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