Holiday Manners & Merry Moments
Helping your dog (and you!) enjoy the holidays with calm confidence
The holidays bring a lot of excitement with guests, decorations, and delicious smells but for our dogs, it can feel like a lot all at once. A few small changes can make a big difference in keeping everyone happy and relaxed.
Pro Tip: Skip the turkey bones and say yes to long-lasting chews instead!
Calm greetings start with clear plans.
Before guests walk in, think about what you want your dog to do, not just what you don’t want.
Practice a simple “sit to say hello” or “go to your spot” cue, and remind guests how to greet politely. (I always tell mine, “Ignore the wiggle at first, then reward the calm while they are in their spot.” It works!)
Keep things safe and simple.
Twinkling lights and shiny ornaments are beautiful but can be tempting for curious noses. Skip edible décor, real candles, keep cords tucked away, and give your dog space to watch the action without being in the middle of it.
Make rest part of the plan.
Even social dogs need breaks. A cozy spot with a favorite chew or snuffle mat lets them recharge while you visit. Sometimes a little quiet time is the best gift of all.