The holidays are a time for joy, laughter, and gatherings—but for our dogs, all the extra noise, visitors, and excitement can quickly become overwhelming. From creating a cozy space to introducing calming activities, there’s plenty you can do to help your pup handle the festive chaos. Start preparing today, and make this holiday season stress-free for both you and your dog.
Why the Holidays Can Be Stressful for Your Dog
While we may love the hustle and bustle of the season, dogs thrive on routine and calm. Changes like:
✦ Loud noises (conversations, kids playing, holiday music)
✦ Unfamiliar guests coming and going
✦ Overstimulating environments with too much activity, can fill up your dog’s stress bucket, leaving them anxious and overwhelmed.
The good news? With a little preparation, you can make the holidays calm and manageable for your pup.
Start Preparing Today!
Prepare Enrichment Activities Ahead of Time
A happy dog is a calm dog! Get ready with activities that engage your dog’s mind and keep them busy when visitors arrive.
✦ Stuffed Toys: Use treat-stuffed toys like Kongs or Toppls. Fill them with raw dog food, plain yoghurt, or mashed pumpkin, and freeze them for a long-lasting distraction. (if you have had a training session with me, refer to your Ditch The Bowl eBook for ideas)
✦ Frozen Bones: Have a few safe, raw bones ready in the freezer—great for chewing and releasing calming endorphins. (read Safety Tips for Feeding Bones blog here)
✦ Rip-Apart Boxes: Save empty cardboard boxes and hide treats inside. Let your dog tear them apart to satisfy their natural instincts.
✦ Exciting New Toys: Introduce a few new toys in the lead-up to Christmas to keep their focus off the chaos around them.
Create a Cozy, Quiet Space to Help Your Dog Stay Calm
Give your dog a safe retreat away from the noise and visitors.
✦ Choose a quiet room or area where they feel secure.
✦ Add familiar items like their bed, blanket, and favourite toys.
✦ Play calming music or white noise to drown out unfamiliar sounds.
Teach your dog in advance that this is their “safe space” where they can relax and recharge. Reward them when they settle in this spot, so they associate it with calm and positive vibes.
Help Them Empty Their Stress Bucket
Remember, it’s not just about Christmas Day—it’s about managing stress in the days leading up to it. If your dog’s stress bucket gets too full, they’ll find it harder to cope with holiday chaos. Here’s how you can help:
✦ Plenty of Rest: Make sure your dog gets enough downtime and quiet time to recover.
✦ Calming Activities: Include gentle enrichment activities like sniffy walks, licking mats, or chew toys that relax their mind.
✦ Avoid Overstimulation: Skip high-energy play, noisy events, or chaotic environments that might add to their stress.
Explore Calming Therapies
Some dogs need a little extra help to stay calm during busy times. Here are a few calming options to explore:
✦ Aromatherapy Calming scents like lavender and chamomile can help reduce anxiety. Use a pet-safe diffuser in your dog’s safe space to create a soothing environment.
✦ Mindfulness and Your Energy: Dogs mirror our emotions, so if you’re stressed or frantic, they’ll feel it too. Take a deep breath, stay calm, and move with intention. A calm owner = a calm dog.
✦ Calming Treats or Supplements: Consider treats or natural supplements designed to promote calmness. In extreme cases, speak to your vet about safe, high-quality options for your dog.
Game to Try: 'Find It'
This fun, low-energy game keeps your dog’s mind engaged without overstimulating them.
How to Play:
Grab some of your dog’s favourite treats (Busy Pawz Premium Treats are perfect!)
Scatter the treats around a safe space or use a snuffle mat (or simply throw a handful into the grass if appropriate)
Say “Find it!” and let your dog sniff them out.
This game is calming because sniffing lowers your dog’s heart rate and reduces stress, while keeping them focused on a positive activity.
Read More Helpful Articles
Here are a few more blogs you might find helpful to keep your dog happy, calm, and entertained this holiday season: How To Safely Feed your Dog Raw Bones
Don’t forget to check out our range of premium training treats and handmade dog gear for the perfect gift for your furry pal this Christmas!
Final Thought
The holidays can be a lot for your dog, but with the right preparation, you can help them stay calm, happy, and stress-free. Start today—get those stuffed toys ready, stock up on enrichment activities, and create a cozy retreat for your pup.
A little planning goes a long way in helping your dog enjoy the season as much as you do!
Thanks for reading! I hope you found this post helpful. Don’t forget to throw your dog a treat from all of us 🐶
Deb & the Busy Pawz Crew
P.S. Got a question or topic you’d like us to cover? Let me know in the comments or send me a message!
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