Christmas is a time for family, food and festive fun, and our dogs are very much part of the celebration. Whether it’s their first Christmas or they’re already an expert at sniffing out hidden presents, there are so many simple ways to include your dog in the holiday spirit.
Here are seven ideas to help make this Christmas magical for your four-legged friend.
1. Make a Dog-Friendly Christmas Dinner
Your dog can enjoy a festive meal too, but keep it safe and simple. Offer a small portion of lean turkey with cooked vegetables like carrots, green beans or peas. Avoid gravy, stuffing, bones and anything that contains onions, garlic or rich sauces.
You can even serve it in a slow feeder or puzzle bowl to make it more interesting.
2. Create a Cosy Christmas Spot
Give your dog a calm, quiet place to relax when the house gets busy. A comfy bed away from the noise, with their favourite blanket and toy, can help them feel safe and settled.
If you’re expecting visitors, let your dog retreat to their cosy corner if they need a break.
3. Wrap a Present Just for Them
Dogs love to unwrap presents too. Wrap up a new toy or some treats in newspaper or brown paper and let your dog have fun tearing it open. Just be sure to avoid ribbons, sticky tape or anything they might accidentally swallow.
4. Include Your Dog in Family Traditions
Whether you take a Christmas Eve walk, wear matching pyjamas or open stockings in the morning, find ways to include your dog. A festive walk in the frost is a lovely way to burn off some excitement before the main event.
And yes, a family photo with your dog in a Christmas jumper is always encouraged.
5. Watch Out for Festive Hazards
There’s plenty around at Christmas that can be dangerous for dogs, including:
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Chocolate, mince pies and Christmas pudding (all toxic)
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Cooked bones from meat
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Tinsel, baubles and wrapping materials
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Batteries and small toys left within reach
Keep food and decorations out of paws’ reach and make sure visitors know not to feed treats under the table.
6. Keep to a Routine
With all the excitement of the holidays, your dog will feel more relaxed if mealtimes and walk times stay consistent. Try to stick as closely as possible to their usual schedule, even if things get busy.
This also helps prevent any unwanted accidents or overly excitable behaviour.
7. End the Day with a Snuggle
After the excitement of Christmas morning, the wrapping paper chaos and a few sneaky bits of turkey, there’s nothing better than curling up on the sofa with your dog. They don’t care about gifts or decorations, they just want to be with you.
A warm blanket, a few gentle strokes and some well-earned rest is the perfect way to end a special day.
Final Thoughts
Christmas is a time for togetherness, and there’s no better companion than your dog. With a little thought and care, you can make the season safe, joyful and full of tail wags.
If you’re thinking of treating your dog to something useful this year, a Walk Your Dog With Love no-pull harness makes a brilliant gift. It helps make walks more enjoyable, gentle and relaxed for both of you, perfect for starting the New Year on the right foot (and paw).
From all of us at Brian and Bob, we wish you and your dog a very merry Christmas filled with love, laughter and plenty of biscuits.
