The holidays can be a hectic and stressful time for everyone, including our furry friends. Dogs are incredibly attuned to their owner’s emotions and can pick up on stress, which can lead to anxiety and behavioral problems. Here are some tips on how to make sure your dog has a happy and safe holiday season.
If you’re having holiday guests over, introduce your dog to them gradually so they can get used to each other
Holidays are a stressful time for humans and animals alike. If you have company staying over, make sure to introduce your dog to them in a slow, controlled way. Have your guests say hello one-by-one, and use helpful dog training commands like “sit” or “stay” so your pup knows that you are in control of the situation. This will reduce the anxiety for both the pup and the guest and minimizes the chances of anything happening that could harm either one of them. With some patience and guidance from you, their transition should be smooth with everyone getting along before long!
Keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible during the holidays – don’t change their eating or walking schedule
The holidays are a busy and exciting time of year, but don’t forget that your dog relies on routine to feel secure and happy. Structured walks, eating schedule, and other habits will help provide comfort to them during this period. Try your best to keep their routine as normal as possible – try not to be tempted by lots of special treats, outdoor excursions for minutes longer than usual, or feeding at different times. Keeping their routine consistent will ensure your dog feels secure in the midst of all the festive chaos.
Be mindful of what food and drink you’re giving your dog – some human foods can be toxic to dogs
Holidays are a time for celebration but it’s important to take extra care of your furry family members, especially when it comes to the food you give them. Whilst some human foods like lean proteins and veggies can be beneficial to dogs, you need to be mindful of what table scraps could potentially be toxic – think chocolate, macadamias, onions, garlic and raisins. Holidays are often laden with cookies and other desserts that may contain these ingredients so extra vigilance is key – keep Fido’s tummy safe by making sure they’re only eating approved treats and meals!
Make sure your dog has a quiet place to retreat to if they start feeling overwhelmed
Providing a safe and quiet place for your dog is essential for their mental wellbeing, especially when faced with lots of potential triggers. Crate training can be a great tool for helping them feel secure and limit their exposure to overwhelming moments. This is especially true when it comes to holiday gatherings that can often involve more people, noise, and other animals than they’re used to. Everyone wants their four-legged family member to feel included but sometimes, it’s best to give them some extra space when it all becomes too much. Establishing a special place in the house where your pup can retreat if needed will make all the difference in helping them feel relaxed during busy times – and you’ll get peace of mind knowing they’re taken care of!
The holidays can be a difficult time for both humans and animals, but with a little preparation you can make sure your furry friend has a safe and happy season. By following these simple tips, you can keep your dog’s routine consistent, introduce them to new people gradually, and most importantly – keep an eye on what they’re eating! With a little bit of extra care, your pet will be ready to enjoy the festivities just like everyone else.
Happy Holidays!
