Preparing Your Dog for Holiday Guests
Holiday Prep for Your Pup: A Stress-Free Guide
The holidays can be overwhelming—for both you and your furry friend! Thanksgiving often means a house full of guests, lots of excitement, and tempting smells from the kitchen. For dogs, these changes can trigger stress, overexcitement, or even unwanted behaviors. To help your dog (and your guests) have a positive holiday experience, we’ve compiled expert tips for preparing your dog for holiday guests.
1. Brush Up on Basic Training
Before guests arrive, make sure your dog is comfortable with essential commands like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “place.” These commands can help keep your dog calm during moments of chaos, like when the doorbell rings or when guests are seated at the table.
Pro Tip: If your dog needs a refresher, check out our Dog Training Programs to sharpen those skills before the holiday rush.
2. Create a Safe Space
Even the most social dogs need a break from time to time. Designate a quiet area where your dog can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Include their favorite bed or crate, toys, and maybe some calming music.
Need guidance on crate training? Read our Crate Training Guide for step-by-step tips.
3. Introduce Your Dog to Guests Slowly
If your dog is nervous around strangers, give them time to adjust. Allow your dog to approach guests on their terms rather than forcing interactions. Reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
For more help with nervous or reactive behavior, explore our Behavioral Training Services.
4. Manage Overexcitement at the Door
One of the most common challenges during the holidays is managing a dog that gets overly excited when guests arrive. To prevent jumping or barking at the door, keep your dog on a leash or ask them to “sit” or “stay” while you greet your guests.
Learn more about correcting jumping behavior on our Jumping Solutions Page.
5. Keep Your Dog Occupied
A bored dog is more likely to get into trouble. Provide engaging toys, puzzle feeders, or long-lasting chews to keep your dog busy while you entertain guests.
Don’t Forget the Fun!
The holidays are a time for fun, and your dog should be included in the festivities! Stock up on some special holiday-themed chew toys or treats. You can even incorporate them into a fun game of fetch or hide-and-seek. Remember, a happy and engaged dog is less likely to act out due to stress.
Here are some additional tips for preparing your dog for holiday guests:
- Introduce guests outside the house first. This allows your dog to meet them on neutral ground in a less overwhelming environment.
- Don’t force your dog to interact if they’re not comfortable. Give them the space they need to adjust to the new faces.
- Maintain your dog’s regular feeding and walking schedule as much as possible. This will help them feel more secure and less stressed.
- Consider hiring a pet sitter or sending your dog to daycare if you’re expecting a large crowd or if your dog struggles with anxiety.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your dog has a positive and stress-free holiday season, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories with loved ones.