How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Happy This Christmas

Christmas is a magical time, filled with joy, celebration, and special moments with family and friends. However, as wonderful as it can be for us, the festive season can be overwhelming for our dogs. From bustling holiday gatherings to new decorations and the unusual presence of boxes and presents, Christmas can sometimes create stress for our furry friends. 

To help, our blog looks at some of the reasons why dogs can feel stressed during the Christmas period, how to recognise signs of overwhelm, and, most importantly, how you can help your dog feel more relaxed and included.
 

Is Christmas Stressful for Dogs?

Many owners ask, “Do dogs enjoy Christmas?” While some dogs take the festivities in stride, others can feel anxious or even frightened. Imagine your home through your dog’s eyes: a previously calm space now has blinking lights, unusual sounds, and sometimes overwhelming scents. Additionally, the sudden influx of guests or the absence of their owners can further contribute to stress and anxiety.
 

Common Triggers for Dogs at Christmas

Here are a few common sources of Christmas-related stress for dogs and why they might react negatively:
 

New Decorations

Christmas trees, lights, and other decorations can seem strange and even threatening to dogs. It’s common to hear questions like “Why is my dog barking at the Christmas tree?” Dogs may feel wary of unfamiliar objects, especially if they move, light up, or have strong scents.
 

Unfamiliar Boxes and Gifts

Dogs often feel uncertain around piles of boxes and wrapped presents. Many dogs are naturally cautious about things they don’t understand, which is why some are afraid of boxes. Leaving presents alone can also be challenging, especially if they’re wrapped in enticing paper and bows!


 

Guests and Social Gatherings

For dogs, the hustle and bustle of Christmas guests can be intimidating. If your dog isn’t used to lots of people in the house, this influx can lead them to feel cornered or overstimulated. Additionally, their regular routines can get disrupted, making them feel anxious.
 

Owners Going Away

For those who go on holiday, the sudden change in routine and potentially being left in a new environment can heighten anxiety. Searching for ‘dog-friendly Christmas hotels’ or ‘dog-friendly Christmas breaks’ can be a great way to ensure your dog isn’t left out.
 

How to Recognise When Your Dog is Overwhelmed

One of the best ways to help your dog during the Christmas period is by learning how to spot signs of stress. Common indicators include:

•    Excessive barking
•    Pacing or hiding
•    Tail tucked or ears held back
•    Panting or drooling more than usual
•    Shaking or trembling

If you’re noticing these signs, it’s likely your dog feels overwhelmed by the Christmas atmosphere. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to create a more calming environment.


 

Tips to Help Your Dog Enjoy a Calm Christmas

1. Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can retreat if they feel anxious. Include their favourite blanket, toys, and perhaps a treat or two. This gives them a sense of security when things get busy.
2. Introduce Decorations Gradually: If possible, put up decorations slowly rather than all at once. Let your dog sniff and explore them before they’re fully set up. This can help reduce fear or curiosity-driven behaviour, like barking at the tree or trying to chew on ornaments.
3. Maintain Routine: Dogs thrive on consistency, so try to stick to their regular schedule, even with Christmas holiday plans. Keep mealtimes, walks, and play sessions as consistent as possible.
4. Dog-Friendly Christmas Breaks: If you’re travelling, consider looking into dog-friendly Christmas hotel packages or searching ‘Christmas holiday cottages dog-friendly’. These accommodations are specifically designed with pets in mind, so you won’t need to leave your dog in an unfamiliar environment.
5. Avoid Flashing Lights and Loud Noises: Flashing lights or loud Christmas music can be overwhelming for dogs. Opt for static lights and keep noise levels moderate.
6. Train ‘Leave It’ for Holiday Decor: Teaching your dog commands like “leave it” can be very helpful to ensure they keep a safe distance from decorations and presents.
7. Engage with Dog-Friendly Christmas Activities: Instead of keeping your dog out of the festivities, why not include them? Look for dog-friendly Christmas events in your area or explore Christmas breaks with dogs to make holiday memories together.

Learn More About Canine Behaviour

Understanding how dogs respond to changes in their environment can make all the difference in keeping them happy and stress-free. If you want to delve deeper into the fascinating world of canine psychology and learn how to help dogs navigate challenges, consider studying canine behaviour with Animal Courses Direct. Our online qualifications in canine behaviour provide the knowledge you need to better understand, support, and communicate with dogs in all kinds of environments.

View our online canine behaviour courses on our website today to get started.