How to keep your dog calm when the house feels a little crazy!
Christmas time can get a little stressful around the house for us, so imagine what it must be like for our pets! Things are being moved around, bright flashing trees are going up, and lots of visitors are coming and going. It can all be very exciting for our dogs, but also a little intimidating at the same time.
Here are some tips to help keep your dog calm and comfortable and ensure everyone enjoys the festive season 🎅🐶
Tip 1 – Keeping Your Dog Calm During Christmas
🕒 Stick to Their Routine
Try to keep your dog’s routine as regular as possible. If you’re planning on having guests over, make sure to give your dog plenty of exercise beforehand. The more energy they burn off, the less they’ll have to burn when the guests arrive!
Tip 2 – Keeping Your Dog Calm During Christmas
🗑️ Watch That Trash!
When preparing food, remember it smells amazing to your pets! Even once the rubbish is thrown out, make sure it’s secure! Even the sneakiest pets can sniff it out and help themselves.
Something as small as mesh netting around a roast can cause serious problems if ingested, potentially leading to intestinal blockages, pancreatitis or even fatal bloat. You can never be too careful!
Tip 2 – Keeping Your Dog Calm During Christmas
🎄 Tree Safety
If your pooch is an indoor dog, be mindful when decorating your tree. If they have a favourite spot near a window or in the living room, try placing the tree elsewhere, or risk it coming down when they go for their usual perch!
To minimise temptation, place decorations higher up the tree and leave the lower branches bare. Those shiny baubles can be very tempting to curious paws and noses!
Tip 3 – Keeping Your Dog Calm During Christmas
🌲 Live Trees & Water Hazards
If you have a real Christmas tree, make sure to regularly change the water at the base and block your dog from accessing it. The water can contain pine tar and other chemicals, which are toxic to dogs. A simple barrier can prevent a lot of trouble!
Tip 4 – Keeping Your Dog Calm During Christmas
🎁 Beware the Wrapped Treats
Keep an eye on wrapped gifts under the tree, especially if they contain food! 🎁 Dogs have incredible noses and may not wait until Christmas morning to unwrap something tasty (and possibly dangerous). They’ll eat the packaging and all!
Tip 5 – Keeping Your Dog Calm During Christmas
🍷 Mind Your Guests (and Their Drinks)
Let your guests know that Fido is around. Something as simple as a glass of wine left on the floor or a dropped cigarette butt can cause serious internal issues for your dog. Keep an eye on where drinks and other hazards are placed during your celebrations.
With a little bit of caution and plenty of love, you and your furry family members can enjoy a safe and yappy Christmas together! 🐾🎅🎁 Be sure to share your pooches Christmas photos with us - we love to see them!
