How to Include Your Dog in Your Festive Celebrations

Christmas is all about family, and for many of us that includes our four-legged besties. Whether you're planning a cosy day at home or hosting a bustling holiday gathering, there are plenty of ways to make sure your dog feels included, safe and loved. Here is your guide to creating a magical, memorable and stress-free Christmas.

Festive Food: What They Can and Can't Eat

Food is a huge part of our celebrations, and naturally our dogs want in on the action! While it's tempting to slip them a few treats from the table, not everything is safe.

Safe Snacks

• Plain turkey or chicken, no skin or seasoning
• Vegetables like carrots, green beans and sweet potato
  
• Special dog treats - a lovely natural treat such as rabbit ears or a fish skin chew
  

Foods to Avoid

• Stuffing
• Chocolate and sweets
• Christmas pudding, mince pies and fruitcake 
• Gravy (too salty/fatty)
• Bones

Dog-Friendly Gift Under the Tree

Dogs love presents as much as we do, especially if it squeaks!

How to Wrap Gifts for Dogs

• Use tissue or kraft paper ( I like to save packing paper from delivery boxes!)
• Avoid glitter paper, glossy paper, ribbons and plastic
• For ultimate fun factor, nestle small treats in layers of paper
• Keep wrapped gifts out of reach to avoid early unwrapping

Gift ideas

• A lovely new paracord collar or lead ( from Barkshire Braids of course 😉 )
• Snuffle mat or a puzzle toy
• Soft plush toy
• A cosy blanket

Keeping Them Happy During the Chaos

Christmas can be overstimulating. New sounds, smells, visitors and disrupted routines. Here are some tips to help keep your dog relaxed.

Stick ( mostly ) to their routine

Dogs thrive on structure. Try to keep:

• Their feeding times
• Walks
  
• Playtime

As close to normal as possible. A settled routine = a calmer dog.

Managing a busy house

If you're having guests:

• Create a safe space - crate, bed, quiet room, where your dog can retreat
  
• Ask visitors not to overwhelm them and respect their boundaries 
  
• Use enrichment toys such as a lick mat, stuffed Kong or a long-lasting chew

Festive Activities

• Make a paw print ornaments, use salt dough or you can buy a ready made kit
  
• Dog advent calendar - a DIY one is even better 
  
• Family photos - matching pyjamas? Cute bandanas? Yes please!
  
  

Keep Them Safe Around Christmas Decorations

Dogs can be mischievous!

• Keep wires and fairy lights out of reach
• Avoid low-hanging delicate baubles
  
• Skip edible decoration
  
• Secure your tree well
  
• Never leave candles unattended 

 

Remember: Not Every Dog Loves Festive Fuss

Some pups thrive on activity and excitement, while others prefer peace and quiet. Watch their body language and adjust your plans as needed. Encourage them to their safe retreat.  The best gift you can give is a Christmas that suits their personality.

 

Wishing you all a magical and safe Christmas