The holiday season is a joyful time, often filled with family gatherings, friends visiting, and lively festivities. But while we humans may love these celebrations, they can be overwhelming for our dogs. The added noise, new faces, and bustling environment can make even the calmest dogs feel anxious. In this post, we’ll explore why the holidays can be stressful for dogs and share practical tips to help your furry friend navigate the season with ease. We’ll also discuss training methods to help your dog feel more comfortable around holiday guests.
Disclaimer: I am not a certified professional; all information provided is based on my personal experience and research. If you have specific questions or concerns regarding your dog, please contact your vet or a certified trainer. This post may include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase from these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you in advance for your purchases.
Are Holidays Stressful for Dogs?
Yes, holidays can be stressful for dogs, especially when large gatherings, unfamiliar faces, and new sounds disrupt their usual routines. Like people, dogs thrive on consistency. Here are some common reasons dogs might feel uneasy during the holidays:
- Unfamiliar People and Smells
Your dog may be used to seeing the same people every day, so meeting new people or reuniting with family they only see occasionally can be intimidating. Dogs are highly attuned to scents and may become overwhelmed by new smells in their environment. - Loud Noises and Holiday Music
From Thanksgiving feasts to New Year’s celebrations, gatherings often come with music, laughter, and even fireworks. Loud noises are a common trigger for canine anxiety, making gatherings particularly stressful for noise-sensitive dogs. - Disrupted Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, so any deviation from their routine can cause stress. Family gatherings can interfere with their regular eating, walking, and sleeping schedule, which can lead to anxiety and even behavioral issues. - Overstimulation from Guests
Family gatherings mean lots of people, children, and energy—something that can easily overstimulate a dog. Some dogs may feel uneasy around people they don’t know well, while others may become overly excited, leading to accidents or excessive barking. - Space Invasion
If your dog is accustomed to having their own space or a quiet spot in the house, the influx of guests can feel like an invasion. Some dogs may become territorial or anxious when they feel their space is compromised.
Tips for Helping Your Dog with Holiday Stress
Now that we understand why the holidays can be challenging for dogs, let’s look at some ways to ease their stress:
1. Create a Safe, Quiet Space
Set up a “safe zone” for your dog—a quiet, cozy area where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. This could be their crate, a favorite room, or even a spot in a less trafficked part of the house. Consider placing their favorite blanket, toys, and a water bowl nearby to make it comfortable and reassuring.
2. Maintain a Consistent Routine
Try to stick as closely as possible to your dog’s regular schedule, including feeding times, walks, and bedtime. Even if you’re busy preparing for guests, maintaining a routine helps signal to your dog that everything is normal.
3. Exercise Before Guests Arrive
A tired dog is usually a relaxed dog. Taking your dog for a walk or engaging them in a play session before guests arrive can help expend excess energy, making them less likely to act out due to pent-up excitement or anxiety.
4. Use Calming Tools
If your dog tends to get anxious, consider using natural calming aids like dog-appeasing pheromones, which can be found in sprays or diffusers. Other options include calming treats that contain ingredients like chamomile or CBD, which may help ease anxiety.
5. Keep Introductions Calm and Positive
When introducing your dog to guests, keep the atmosphere calm. Have your guests avoid overwhelming gestures like bending down suddenly or petting the dog too forcefully. Encourage guests to let your dog come to them, allowing your dog to sniff and get acquainted at their own pace.
6. Avoid Sharing Table Scraps
Many foods served during the holidays are unsafe for dogs (think chocolate, onions, garlic, and fatty foods). To avoid health issues, let guests know that they should not feed your dog any table scraps, as some well-meaning guests may try to “treat” your dog. This can also help reduce begging behavior.
7. Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior
Pay close attention to your dog’s behavior around guests. If you notice signs of stress, such as whining, pacing, or excessive panting, it may be time to let them retreat to their safe space. Sometimes a short break can make all the difference. For more ways to help your dog stay calm, check out our post on Calming Techniques for Anxious Dogs for additional strategies.
Training Your Dog for Holiday Gatherings
Preparing your dog for the holidays doesn’t have to wait until the day of the gathering. Training in advance can go a long way in ensuring that your dog is ready to handle the excitement. Here are a few training tips to help:
1. Practice “Place” Training
Teaching your dog to go to a designated spot, such as a bed or mat, on command can be extremely helpful. This command, often referred to as “place” training, helps reinforce the idea that they have a spot to relax, even if guests are present. Reward your dog when they stay on their mat, especially if they remain calm when guests enter.
2. Work on “Leave It” and “Quiet” Commands
Two useful commands to practice are “leave it” and “quiet.” The “leave it” command can prevent your dog from eating something they shouldn’t, while “quiet” can help manage excessive barking. Start with short training sessions using treats as positive reinforcement, and gradually practice in more distracting environments.
3. Socialization Practice
If your dog is not used to being around many people, arrange for friends or family to come over for short visits in the weeks leading up to the holidays. Begin with one or two guests and gradually increase the number of visitors. Make each visit a positive experience by rewarding your dog for calm behavior.
4. Teach “Wait” at the Door
Holiday gatherings often mean people coming in and out of the house. Teaching your dog to wait at the door can prevent them from accidentally escaping or rushing to greet each guest as they enter. Start by practicing with one person at the door and gradually work up to multiple people.
5. Reinforce Crate Training
If your dog is already crate-trained, reinforce positive associations with their crate in the weeks leading up to the holidays. Use treats, toys, and calming music to make the crate feel like a safe retreat. Crate training can be especially helpful if your dog needs a break from guests. For more tips on crate training, check out our post on A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Crate Training.
Additional Tips for a Dog-Friendly Holiday Season
- Give Your Dog Their Own Entertainment
Provide toys or interactive puzzles to keep your dog occupied while guests are over. Long-lasting chews or puzzle toys filled with treats can keep them entertained and distracted. - Consider Hiring a Dog Sitter or Boarding
If your dog is particularly anxious around people or large gatherings, it may be best for them to stay with a trusted sitter or at a doggy daycare during the event. This is a good option for dogs who might feel more comfortable in a quiet environment. - Stick to a Dog-Safe Holiday Menu
It’s tempting to give your dog a taste of holiday foods, but certain foods, such as chocolate, grapes, and fatty meats, can be harmful. Stick to dog-safe treats, and if you want to share the holiday spirit, prepare a dog-friendly dish made from safe ingredients like sweet potatoes or plain pumpkin. - Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
With all the activity, your dog may get thirsty. Ensure that their water bowl is refilled regularly to keep them hydrated and comfortable.
Conclusion
Preparing your dog for the holidays can make a huge difference in how they experience the season. By creating a safe space, practicing positive training techniques, and offering reassurance, you can help your dog stay calm and relaxed during family gatherings. Remember, the holidays should be enjoyable for everyone, including your furry family member. With these strategies, you’ll be ready to make this season a positive experience for your dog.