A Dog Friendly Christmas

By Shelley Heading

Whilst we're busy getting wrapped up in the festive fun, we may forget to think about the effect Christmas can have on our canine companions

From your dog's perspective, this is a time of the year when lots of unusual and exciting things are brought into your home, making it a very tempting time for them to get up to all sorts of mischief. Interesting foods, unusual plants and trees, flashing decorations and Christmas presents will all be of great interest to your dog!

First you put a huge, great tree in the house and expect him not to investigate it, let alone pee up it! Then you add lots of shiny baubles, tinsel and lights. Then there's the oodles of super tasty treats lying around, along with visitors coming and going, interrupting the usual quiet routine of your dog’s day.

You have oodles of super tasty treats lying around, along with visitors coming and going, interrupting the usual quiet routine of your dog’s day.

Dogs like routine. Lack of routine and change can cause your dog to become unhappy. Your dog can become shutdown or super-excited depending on his personality. If your dog’s behaviour or personality changes during the holiday it is your responsibility to help them cope. Here are some ways to help them:

Daily Routine

Maintain their routine as much as possible, keep their walk and feed times the same. Ensure they have a quiet, safe place to sleep.

Stick to his diet

Don’t be tempted to feed him lots of human food titbits. Buy or make suitable healthy treats, but don't overdo it!

Maintain your physical contact/play

Your dog gains a lot of comfort and reassurance from you. If you cuddle your dog and they like it, continue to make time to do this. It release oxytocin, a great feel good chemical for both of you. If you play with your dog, make time to do this as it forms part of their routine and routine is good.

Try and add some extra walks

Walks are a great way to help your dog cope with all the holiday changes. Sniffing combined with physical exercise will help your dog relax.

Rules

Allow your dog to choose if he interacts with visitors or takes himself off to his bed. His bed or safe place is just that - no one bothers him there! If he is asleep, children and visitors must leave him be

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