WEEK 29
Helping Your Dog Navigate Holiday Chaos
The holidays are a time of togetherness, gratitude…
And, if we’re being honest, a bit of chaos. Between the smell of turkey roasting, guests coming and going, and the general buzz of activity, it’s easy to forget that our dogs experience this whirlwind differently.
For some dogs, holidays mean overstimulation—jumping on guests, counter-surfing for treats, or barking when the doorbell rings. For others, the excitement (or the sheer number of strangers) can trigger anxiety and fear.
The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can help your dog sail through the holidays feeling calm, confident, and safe—while keeping your mashed potatoes free of paw prints.
1. Create a Holiday “Zen Zone”
Give your dog a quiet, safe space away from the hustle and bustle.
- Set up a crate or cozy room with their bed, favorite toys, and calming chews.
- Play soothing music or white noise to drown out the commotion.
- If your dog struggles with guests, consider a frozen Kong or puzzle feeder to help them relax.
A quiet break isn’t a punishment—it’s an essential decompression tool.
2. Manage the Doorway Drama
Excited dogs and a constant stream of guests can be a recipe for chaos.
- Use baby gates or a leash to prevent door-dashing or overzealous greetings.
- If your dog loves to jump, redirect that energy by having guests toss a few kibble/treats on the floor as they enter your home. This simple game of 'find-it' (when repeated by all humans) reinforces your dog for keeping four paws on the floor when guests enter your home.
For nervous or reactive dogs, plan ahead: have them enjoy a stuffed Kong in their safe zone when guests arrive, then reintroduce them once the room is calmer.
3. Keep Human Food Off Limits
Turkey, gravy, pie… all delicious for us, but some holiday foods can be toxic for dogs.
- Set a “no feeding scraps” rule for guests.
- Keep tempting foods pushed to the back of the counter or table.
- Offer safe alternatives—like a special holiday chew or their own dog-friendly “feast” (think pumpkin puree or a bit of plain turkey).
4. Stick to Their Routine (as Much as Possible)
Dogs thrive on predictability. While holidays are anything but predictable, try to keep feeding times, potty breaks, and walks close to normal.
- A pre-dinner walk or sniffari can help burn off energy and calm the mind.
If you can’t manage a walk or if your dog struggles on walks, play a game of tug or fetch, or hide n' seek (whatever activity they find enjoyable and allows them to work their body and mind). You can also use part of their meal in a foraging activity before guests arrive.
5. Watch for Stress Signals
The holidays can be overwhelming, even for social dogs. Look for signs like:
- Lip licking, yawning, or turning away.
- Pacing, hiding, or excessive panting.
- Sudden clinginess or growling.
These are early indicators that your dog is uncomfortable. Give them a break before stress escalates.
6. When in Doubt, Call It
Your dog doesn’t have to be part of every gathering. If the environment is just too much, it’s okay to set them up in a quiet, secure space with a calming, long-lasting activity while you enjoy your guests.
Managing triggers isn’t “giving up”—it’s smart dog parenting.
Final Thought
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The holidays should be joyful for everyone—including your dog. With a little preparation and understanding, you can set them up for success, reduce stress, and prevent those “oops” moments (like the dog snagging the turkey).
If you’d like help preparing your dog for holiday visitors, food temptations, or new environments, I’d love to support you.