Events such as Christmas upset routines for all of us, so don’t be surprised if your dog shows some odd behaviours. All those decorations, glitter, lights and visitors can be too much for some dogs
Does your dog enjoy a regular routine?
Gus has a regular routine. He knows when things are due to happen – and lets us know if we forget something!
In the mornings we got out for him to toilet and me to feed the birds, then we settle down in my study for an hour where I write these emails, or some of my next book, or do some other computer-based work before breakfast.
Then it’s walk time, followed by coffee and either a doggy visit or more study work – for Gus it’s snooze time. He wakes up when I start to prepare lunch so he can beg shamelessly at the table (yes, our fault, but he will go and lie down when told!).
There’s a similar pattern in the afternoon, of a walk or some training or nosework then after dinner Gus and I settle in the sitting room to watch TV, craft or otherwise relax. At 8pm it’s Dentastix time, then he will start pestering for his night-time biscuits from around 10.15pm. He likes an early night!
Like Gus, most dogs love a regular routine and some easily get worried by changes to that comfortable, regular, expected series of events.
Such as Christmas.
Upsetting their routine can result in odd behaviours
Events such as Christmas upset routines for all of us, so don’t be surprised if your dog shows some odd behaviours. All those decorations, glitter, lights and visitors can be too much for some dogs.
Your task today is to work out a plan to help your dog stay settled and happy over Christmas.
We have some ideas to help your dog settle
1. 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
2. Enjoy your walks together. Himself grabs the chance to take Gus out on Christmas day to get away from the hassle and dinner preparations. Getting away from any noise and bustle is soothing and calming for both of you. And there’s something special about walks around Christmas – people smile and interact more, so walks feel even more companionable and fun.
3. 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. A new toy as a present can while away a happy half hour as you encourage your dog to have fun playing with you. Although, like children, they may prefer to play with the packaging it came in.
4. Make sure your dog has a quiet place where they can go to relax away from any noise and hubbub. Overtiredness can lead to your dog becoming crotchety and then behaving badly. Again, just like children. Come to think of it, it’s not a bad idea to have a nice quiet place for yourself, too…
Whatever your plans, think of your dog and how best to help them stay calm and relaxed.
Of course having a well-trained dog helps too – and we’ve got our next Perfect Pet classes set up for January, if you want help to learn to control your chaotic canine.
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol
