How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Holiday Gatherings
The holiday season can be exciting for everyone, including our furry canine friends. But excitement can all too easily swing into stress for dogs. There’s an overwhelming array of new faces, noises, smells, sights, and activities to deal with. How can a dog stay calm throughout the most festive of holiday gatherings?
The team at The Bark Park Pet Resort and Daycare has 3 dog holiday tips to keep your pet—and you!—calm, cool, and collected during the holiday season.
3 Tips to Keep Dogs Calm During the Holidays
1. Brush Up on Dog Training
Has it been a little while since you and Fido had a training sesh? Before the holidays, go back to the basics. Use positive reinforcement to help your dog internalize basic commands like “sit,” “lie down,” “stay,” and “go to your bed.”
If your pup can reliably follow these commands, you can help rein her in when things get chaotic. When your dog is around guests, these well-worn commands will give her the structure she needs to keep her body calm.
Of course, make sure you give your dog a formal introduction to each guest—and advise eager children of the most respectful way to approach your pet. Keep an eye on how your dog interacts with guests, especially unfamiliar ones. Watch for signs of anxiety, such as pacing or whining, and give your pet breaks if needed.
When everyone’s on their best behavior, a jolly time can be had by all.
2. Create a Calm Space
One of the easiest ways to make sure your dog can stay calm during the holidays is to set up a quiet, safe space away from the fray.
If your pet is crate trained, put her crate in the quiet room with a special treat or toy. Play calming music or background noise your dog likes. Consider adding a pet-friendly, calming scent to the room.
When your dog gets overwhelmed—or if your younger guests get overly touchy—you can bring your dog to his safe space.
For best results, though, start practicing spending time in the safe room a few weeks before the holidays. This gives your pet plenty of time to adjust to spending time on her own there—it’ll feel familiar, safe, and comfortable by the big day.
3. Plan for Walks and Breaks
Dogs thrive on routine, so maintain her regular feeding, bathroom, and exercise schedules. Keeping things predictable helps reduce stress and keeps your dog calm during gatherings. As much as possible, take your dog on her usual walk, jog, or romp in the yard just like you do on non-holiday days.
You might even consider giving your pet extra mental stimulation and physical activity around the holidays. A tired dog is a calm dog, after all!
Happy Dog, Happy Holidays
If your furry friend needs extra stimulation around the holidays—or you’re struggling to find time for that crucial exercise routine—it might be time for something new. Like our doggy daycare at the Bark Park Pet Resort and Daycare, where your pup will enjoy activities tailored specifically to his needs.
From puzzles and agility courses to one-on-one attention and playtime with other pups, there’s something for every dog!
Call our energetic team of Dog Gurus at 916-459-3030 to learn more or book your pet’s first session today.