The holiday season is full of excitement, family visits, and changes. It can be quite stressful for a dog, whether it’s their first holiday season as part of your family or they’ve seen many. From all the new sights and smells to loud fireworks on New Year’s Eve, your dog could be in for a stressful time in December. Here are some tips on preparing your dog for the holidays and for keeping them happy and calm during the holiday season.
How to Prepare Your Pup for the Holidays
Before the decorations go up and before the guests arrive, take the time to prepare your dog for the changes.
Anticipate your Dog’s Needs
Some dogs adapt to change very well. Others, not so much. Consider your dog’s personality and look for what they need. If your dog is anxious about changes, slowly set up decorations to get them acquainted with change. If your dog is nervous around guests, consider daycare or boarding as an option to ensure they have a positive environment to stay calm.
Purchase Supplies Ahead of Time
During all the holiday shopping, it can be difficult to remember the regular household items you need during the season. Ensure you are stocked up with everything your dog needs, from food and treats to waste bags.
Brush Up on Their Training Skills
Even if your dog is well-behaved, preparing for the holidays by brushing up on their training skills can help them be prepared for guests and the craziness of the holidays.
Tips on Keeping Your Dog Calm
When your dog is anxious, they may show signs by pacing, barking, whining, or trembling. Each dog is different, but these are some of the most common ways you can keep your dog calm during the holidays:
- Maintain a consistent schedule: ensure your dog gets enough playtime and exercise and sticks to their feeding schedules. Keeping your dog stimulated can help them adapt to changes around them.
- Music: some dogs respond well to music to stay calm. Others may like calming channels on the TV.
- Create a safe environment: While your entire home could make your dog comfortable, a smaller zone where they can enjoy peace and quiet away from guests or during New Year’s fireworks could help them adapt during the holidays. Build a pillow fort or lay down their favorite blanket in a space they love.
How to Get Your Dog Involved in Holiday Cheer
Even for a stressed pup, you can have them get in on holiday cheer this year.
Check out Local Pet Activities
Many local businesses get involved with pet-themed holiday events, like pictures with Santa or pet parties, where your dog can enjoy holiday cheer and socialize with other dogs.
Holiday-themed Dog Treats
Your dog already loves treats, so why not make them holiday-themed? Try a home recipe for a holiday dog cookie, or grab a holiday-themed bag of treats at the grocery store. Just make sure they are safe for dogs to eat.
Holiday Costume Fun
If your dog likes to dress up, this season is the perfect time for a costume party! They can dress as snowmen or elves or even wear matching pajamas with the family!
Holiday Movie Night
If your dog enjoys watching TV, then cuddle up with a warm blanket and throw on one of your favorite holiday movies.
Take Them on a Trip to Look at Lights
Drive around the neighborhood or attend a holiday light spectacle with your pup so you can all enjoy the bright lights of the season.
Make Dog Ornaments
Have a fun DIY ornament night and get your dog involved with pet-safe personalized ornaments, such as paw prints.
What to Know If Adopting a Puppy This Month
For some lucky families, you may be bringing in a new bundle of joy for your family, perhaps as a gift for a loved one. The holidays are stressful, especially for a new puppy.
- Puppy-proof your home
- Decorate responsibly: don’t have any decorations that they can easily chew and potentially swallow.
- Supervise them with care, especially in the kitchen
- Stick to routines
If your puppy is too stressed during the season, then consider boarding as an option during the holidays.
How K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Can Help This Season
The holidays are a time for the whole family to share love and joy with each other. For your dog, this may be the best time for them to get the extra care, socialization, and attention they need boarding at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel. With a highly-trained staff and state-of-the-art facilities, you can rest assured your dog is happy and safe during the holidays, whether you are traveling or need to find them a relaxing place away from the stress at home.
Find your local K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel here and get in contact with us today to learn more.
Happy Holidays!