We’ll be having a quiet Christmas. We were going to have my mum and dad round for the first time since March, but my dad feels too unsafe, so they’ll stay at home and I’ll bring their Christmas dinner to them.
So our Christmas will be quiet with just us and Daughter no 1 who’ll be bringing my grand-dog, Pepper.
Even with just that, it is a change in routine for us and for Gus. Most dogs settle well into your home routine and events such as Christmas upset things, so don’t be surprised if your dog shows some odd behaviours.
Here’s some ways you can help your dog stay settled and happy over Christmas:
- Try to keep as close to your usual routine as much as you can. Walk your dog at the same times of day, feed them at the same times and so on.
- Make sure your dog has a quiet place where they can go to relax away from any noise and hubbub. A bed or crate in a quiet room, or under the stairs, or in a bedroom all work well.
- Enjoy your walks together. Himself grabs the chance to take Gus out on Christmas day to get away from the hassle and dinner preparations.
- Be prepared with things to entertain your dog – filled Kongs, a snuffle mat or other food toys all work well to keep them calm when children are tearing around and over-excited.
Finally, please keep your dogs safe from the toxic dangers of Christmas. Check out our Free stuff for a list of foods poisonous to dogs, which also includes foods that should only be fed in moderation and those that are fine for dogs to eat.
Poisonous foods include chocolate, dried fruit, grapes, blue cheeses, macadamia nuts and alcohol. Remember that tinsel and other decorations are dangerous, too if eaten by your dog. An emergency vet visit will mess up your plans and be an expensive unexpected extra you don’t need.
With only a week to go I hope you are better prepared than I feel – I must get on now and wrap some presents.
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol