How to Prepare Dogs for Stress-Free Holidays

The holiday season brings joy, gatherings, and the excitement of family reunions or vacations. But with all the changes, this festive time of year can also be overwhelming for our dogs. Whether your dog will be joining you on the road or staying home with new visitors, some simple preparations can ensure they feel safe, comfortable, and part of the celebration. Here’s how to get your dog holiday-ready, stress-free.

Start with Basic Training Refreshers

Holiday events often mean lots of activity, new people, and unfamiliar settings—all of which can make even well-trained dogs act out or feel nervous. Before the holiday season kicks off, give your dog a quick refresher on the basics:

• Recall (“Come” command): Make sure they reliably come when called, especially around open doors or busy areas.
• Polite Greetings: Practice keeping your dog calm when meeting new people, especially if they’re prone to jumping on guests.
• Settle Command: Teach or reinforce a “settle” or “place” command. This skill will help them relax on a bed or mat when things get busy.

Spending a few minutes each day practicing these commands can be a big help. A little effort can make the holidays safer and more enjoyable for both your dog and your guests.

Prepare a Safe Space

During gatherings, it’s easy for dogs to feel overwhelmed by the commotion. Set up a quiet “safe zone” in your home—a familiar room, crate, or cozy corner—where they can retreat if they need some downtime. This spot should be off-limits to visitors, stocked with your dog’s bed or favorite blanket, and include comforting toys or chews.

If you’re traveling, bring along familiar items, like a portable bed, toys, or even something with your scent on it. This small reminder of home can ease any stress they may feel in a new environment.

Plan for Dog-Friendly Activities

When family gatherings are spread over hours or days, your dog will need outlets for energy, just like any other day. Here are a few holiday-friendly ideas to keep them engaged:

• Brain Games: Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys keep them mentally occupied, especially while you’re busy with guests.
• Scent Work Games: Simple hide-and-seek games, where they search for treats. These games can keep their mind active without needing a lot of space.
• Quick Walks or Play Sessions: Make sure your dog gets regular breaks from the action with walks or short play sessions to reduce any pent-up energy.

These breaks not only keep your dog entertained but also help prevent them from getting overly excited or stressed during gatherings.

Introduce Visitors Gradually

For dogs not used to frequent guests, an influx of new people can be unsettling. A gradual introduction process can make a big difference:

• Arrival Introductions: When guests first arrive, keep your dog on a leash or in a separate area. Allow them to approach people calmly, rewarding them for polite greetings.
• Keep Things Calm: Encourage guests, especially children, to greet your dog calmly, avoiding rough play or loud interactions.
• Reward Good Behavior: Keep treats on hand to reward your dog for staying calm and polite, reinforcing that positive behavior gets them attention and praise.

If your dog is particularly wary of strangers, you may consider allowing them to greet guests from a safe distance or after they’ve had some time to adjust to the new energy in the house.

Prepare for Pet-Friendly Travel

If your holiday plans involve traveling with your dog, advance preparation can make the journey much easier:

• Health Check and Records: Make sure your dog’s vaccinations and health check-ups are up to date. Carry a copy of their medical records if traveling out of state or internationally.
• Comfortable Travel Crate or Carrier: For car or plane rides, a secure, comfortable crate or travel-safe carrier is essential. Include a cozy blanket and some chew toys for long journeys.
• Rest and Exercise Breaks: If driving, plan stops for bathroom breaks, fresh air, and exercise to help keep them comfortable and calm.

Monitor Holiday Foods and Decorations

The holiday season often includes foods and decorations that can pose risks for curious dogs. Here’s a quick checklist to keep your dog safe:

• Avoid Toxic Foods: Many common holiday foods, like chocolate, onions, grapes, and certain spices, can be toxic to dogs. Make sure guests know not to feed your dog anything from their plate, and keep food out of reach.
• Secure Decorations: Tinsel, candles, or small ornaments can be tempting to chew or swallow, which can lead to emergencies. Place decorations out of reach, and consider dog-safe alternatives for holiday decor.

Setting clear boundaries can prevent potential hazards, keeping the festivities stress-free and safe for your dog.

Maintain a Routine

Amid the holiday excitement, it’s easy to overlook your dog’s regular schedule. But keeping their routine intact as much as possible is one of the best ways to prevent stress. Try to stick to your dog’s usual feeding, walking, and bedtime schedule. This routine consistency gives them stability, even when things around them feel different.

Give Extra Love and Patience

Holiday gatherings bring extra noise, activity, and change, which can be challenging for many dogs. Extra patience and affection go a long way—give your dog some quiet time, gentle petting, or play sessions where they’re the center of attention.

If you notice signs of stress, like pacing, excessive barking, or hiding, respect their needs by giving them space or removing them from overwhelming situations. Reassuring your dog with calm, positive attention reminds them that you’re there to support them, even when things get hectic.

Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday with Your Dog

The holidays are a special time for connecting with family and creating memories, and with a bit of planning, they can be just as enjoyable for your dog. By preparing in advance and keeping their needs in mind, you’re helping them feel safe, comfortable, and included. Here’s to a joyful, stress-free holiday season for both you and your furry friend!