How to keep your dog calm and happy this Christmas

The festive season is upon us and many dog owners like to let their beloved pets in on the action. We’ve put together a few tips to help you and your dog have a relaxing Christmas.

Don’t break their routine

Try to stick with your dog’s normal routine – feed them at the same times each day and don’t neglect their walks.

Don’t slip into bad habits with your dog’s training and behaviour amongst all the excitement. It will be confusing for your dog and may be difficult to break later on.

We recommend taking your dog for a nice long walk on Christmas morning to tire them out after all the present-opening excitement and to avoid any ‘accidents’ in the house later on.

Keep decorations out of your dog’s reach

There will lots of new and sparkly things in the house over Christmas, which will be very interesting for your dog and could be a hazard.

Keep chocolate decorations out of reach and try putting your Christmas tree on a stand or leaving the bottom braches free of baubles.

The pine needles from your tree can be sharp and cause harm to your dog’s paws or eyes – artificial or non-shedding trees are much safer.

Other festive plants that pose a danger to canines are holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and berries.

Food

Much of the food we enjoy at Christmas may be dangerous if ingested by your dog.

A little bit of turkey is fine, but refrain from giving your dog any other treats especially chocolate or nuts. The food that we find delicious may not provide the nutrition that your dog requires and are likely to be high in calories and could make your dog ill.

During mealtimes ensure that your dog is content in their bed and don’t encourage them to beg at the table.

Visitors

Most dogs enjoy human company and will love having lots of visitors and friends to play with.

However, every dog needs a quiet area to retreat to, away from all the bustle and noise. Ensure that any children that visit your home know the correct way to behave around your dog and do not leave them together unsupervised.

Also, be aware that loud bangs from fireworks, crackers and even champagne corks can cause your dog distress.

Santa visits dogs too!

It is a great treat to buy your dog a present at Christmas, just make sure that they don’t eat or chew any plastic packaging, cellophane or ribbons!

We recommend buying a good quality toy made from sturdy rubber or knotted rope which will keep your dog entertained for hours.

Merry Christmas from all at WKD Trained Dogs!