The holiday season is a time of joy, festivity, and celebration. However, the new sights, sounds, and smells that come with seasonal decorations and gatherings can be overwhelming or even dangerous for your furry friend. From shiny ornaments to glowing candles, these elements may add sparkle to your home but can pose risks to curious pets. Here’s a guide on how to keep your dog safe and comfortable around holiday decorations and events, ensuring the season is merry for both you and your pup!
- Decorating with Your Dog in Mind
While holiday decor can bring warmth and beauty to your home, some items may be risky for dogs. Here are a few things to watch out for and tips to make your decor pet-friendly:
Avoid Breakable Ornaments
Shiny glass ornaments can look like toys to a curious dog, but they are a hazard if broken. If your dog knocks one down or tries to play with it, it could shatter, causing cuts or swallowing hazards. Opt for shatterproof decorations and consider placing any fragile items high on the tree, out of your dog’s reach.
Keep Cords and Lights Secure
Twinkling holiday lights add magic to any room but can be tempting for a pet that enjoys chewing. Chewing on electrical cords can lead to electric shock or burns. Secure all cords and lights by taping them down or covering them with cord protectors, and keep them tucked away as much as possible.
Be Cautious with Candles and Open Flames
Candles create a cozy ambiance but can be dangerous if your dog bumps into them or tries to investigate the flame. Instead of traditional candles, consider using battery-operated LED candles to avoid the risk of burns or fires.
Skip the Tinsel and Fake Snow
Tinsel is shiny and alluring but can be dangerous if ingested, leading to digestive issues or intestinal blockages. Similarly, fake snow and other holiday sprays can be toxic if inhaled or ingested by pets. Stick with safe, dog-friendly decorations, and if you do use items like tinsel, keep them out of reach.
- Introducing Your Dog to Holiday Decor
Dogs are creatures of habit, and any changes to their environment can cause curiosity, excitement, or anxiety. Here’s how to help your dog acclimate to your holiday decor gradually.
Set Up Slowly
Instead of decorating all at once, try introducing holiday items gradually. Start with one or two decorations at a time and give your dog a chance to explore each new addition. Allowing them to sniff and observe the decorations can help reduce their curiosity and lower the risk of them trying to play with the decor later.
Provide Positive Reinforcement
If your dog shows calm behavior around the new decorations, reward them with treats or praise. This reinforces the idea that they should stay calm and respectful around holiday items. Avoid scolding or raising your voice if they show interest; redirect their attention to something appropriate instead, like a favorite toy.
Create Boundaries Around High-Risk Areas
If you have certain decor that you want to keep entirely off-limits, consider using baby gates or training mats to create physical boundaries. For example, if you have a Christmas tree, you may want to set up a gate around it or train your dog to stay out of the room where the tree is placed.
- Managing Excitement and Anxiety During Gatherings
The holiday season often brings friends and family together, which can be exciting yet overwhelming for dogs. Managing their energy and keeping them calm during gatherings is crucial for a harmonious holiday.
Create a Safe Space for Your Dog
With new people and activity around, your dog may feel overstimulated or anxious. Set up a quiet, comfortable space for them away from the main party area. This can be their crate, a cozy corner with their bed, or a separate room where they can retreat if they need a break.
Practice Calming Commands
Before the holiday season kicks into high gear, reinforce basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “place” to help your dog remain calm when guests arrive. Teaching your dog a “place” command can be especially helpful in guiding them to a designated spot during gatherings.
Provide Mental Stimulation to Tire Them Out
A tired dog is often a well-behaved dog. On days when you’re expecting guests, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A long walk, playtime, or engaging puzzle toys can help expend some of their energy and keep them relaxed during the festivities.
- Holiday Food & Treat Safety
Food is a big part of holiday celebrations, but many traditional holiday treats can be harmful to dogs. Here’s how to keep your dog safe from potentially dangerous food.
Keep Dangerous Foods Out of Reach
Many holiday foods are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, and anything with artificial sweeteners (like xylitol). Remind guests not to feed your dog from the table, and make sure food platters are kept out of reach.
Offer Dog-Safe Treats Instead
To keep your dog included in the festivities, have dog-friendly treats on hand that you can give them when you’re enjoying your own holiday treats. You can even bake them special holiday-themed dog treats to make them feel like part of the family!
Use Trash Bins with Secure Lids
Curious dogs may be tempted to sniff through the trash, especially with the exciting smells of holiday leftovers. Make sure trash bins are secure and out of reach to avoid your dog ingesting harmful scraps.
- Additional Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Season
Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible
Dogs thrive on routine, and the holidays can often disrupt their schedules. Try to stick to regular feeding, walking, and sleeping times as closely as possible to give your dog a sense of stability amid the holiday chaos.
Consider Calming Aids if Necessary
If your dog is particularly anxious around large gatherings or new decorations, consider using calming aids like anxiety wraps, calming treats, or pheromone diffusers. Consult your vet to see if these options would be beneficial for your pet.
Keep an Eye on Their Behavior
Lastly, always monitor your dog’s behavior for signs of stress or discomfort. If they’re showing signs of anxiety, such as whining, pacing, or excessive licking, remove them from the situation and let them relax in their safe space.
Enjoying a Safe & Happy Holiday Season Together
With a little planning and preparation, you can help your dog navigate the holiday season with confidence and ease. By making mindful choices about decorations, creating a safe environment, and managing their interactions with guests, you’ll ensure your furry friend feels secure and happy during this festive time. After all, holidays are about spending quality time with loved ones — including our beloved pets!