Christmas is such a magical time of year, but it can also bring its fair share of challenges—especially if you live with multiple dogs. Between the excitement of visitors, the change in routine, and the added hustle and bustle, it’s easy for things to get overwhelming for both you and your dogs. But with a bit of planning and preparation, you can make sure everyone has a happy, calm, and festive holiday season.
Here’s how you can keep your multi-dog household harmonious this Christmas.
1. Create Calm Spaces
With all the comings and goings of the festive period, your dogs need somewhere quiet to escape to when it all gets too much. Whether it’s a crate, a gated-off room, or just a cosy corner, having a safe retreat is essential.
Make these spaces extra inviting with blankets, favourite toys, or even a chew or Kong to keep them relaxed. The key is to make sure they have access whenever they need it, so they always know there’s a place to recharge.
2. Supervise Multi-Dog Interactions
Even the closest of doggy friends can get a bit grumpy when there’s a lot going on. Increased activity, new people, and even extra smells in the air can all heighten emotions. Pay close attention to how your dogs interact and watch for signs that they may need a break.
Here are some quick tips:
- Remove any high-value items like chews or toys that could spark a squabble.
- Supervise during busy times like meal prep or present unwrapping (ribbons can look like irresistible chew toys).
- If things start to feel tense, give your dogs some time apart to settle.
3. Stick to Their Routine
We all know how much dogs thrive on routine, and Christmas is no different. While it’s tempting to get caught up in the festivities, sticking to your dogs’ normal feeding, walking, and training schedules will help them feel secure and less stressed.
Make Time for Rest:
One thing that’s easy to forget, especially with all the excitement, is that dogs often don’t know when enough is enough. Overexcitement can lead to overtiredness, which then risks arguments or unwanted behaviours. Build in regular quiet times where your dogs are “forced” to relax, whether that’s in a crate or another room, to let them properly unwind.
4. Introduce Decorations Gradually
Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and shiny baubles—what’s not to love? Well, for your dogs, these new additions can be as confusing as they are exciting. Let them get used to the changes slowly, and supervise while they investigate.
Safety First:
- Keep fragile ornaments, fairy light wires, and tinsel well out of reach.
- Avoid chocolate decorations or toxic plants like poinsettias.
- Anchor your tree securely—just in case someone decides to get a closer look!
5. Manage Guest Interactions
If you’ve got visitors coming over, it’s important to manage how your dogs interact with them. Not everyone understands dog body language, and things like squealing children or overly enthusiastic greetings can overwhelm your dogs.
Top Tip for Families with Children:
If kids are coming, it’s a good idea to keep your dogs in their quiet space until after the presents are opened and everyone has calmed down. Once the house is a bit quieter, bring the dogs out to meet everyone in a more controlled, less chaotic environment.
Guest Guidelines:
- Encourage guests to greet your dogs calmly, avoiding eye contact or overly excited voices until the dogs feel comfortable.
- Discourage rough play, especially in a multi-dog setting.
- Teach children to respect boundaries—no chasing, hugging, or pulling on tails!
6. Be Cautious with Festive Foods
The smell of Christmas dinner is irresistible for dogs, but many festive foods can be dangerous for them, including turkey bones, stuffing (which often contains onions or garlic), and Christmas pudding.
Festive Treat Ideas:
Instead of sharing your plate, prepare dog-friendly treats like a small platter of carrots, green beans, or a bit of plain cooked turkey. You could also fill a lick mat with dog-safe peanut butter or yoghurt as a festive snack.
7. Keep Their Minds Busy
Mental stimulation can be just as tiring as physical exercise and is a great way to keep your dogs happy during busy days. Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, and short training games can all help channel their energy constructively.
Festive Fun:
Why not teach your dogs a new Christmas-themed trick? Something like “unwrap the present” (using dog-safe paper) or “find Santa” (hiding a festive toy) can keep things fun and festive.
8. Prepare for Fireworks and Noise
Christmas and New Year’s Eve often bring unexpected bangs and loud celebrations. If your dogs are sensitive to noise, planning ahead can help keep them calm.
What You Can Do:
- Play calming music or white noise to muffle outside sounds.
- Consider using calming aids like a snug-fitting vest or pheromone diffusers.
- Make their quiet space as cosy and comforting as possible.
9. Plan Walks and Playtime Wisely
Christmas walks are a great way to burn off energy, but the holidays can also bring unexpected challenges. On days like Christmas afternoon, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, you’ll often see people out walking their dogs who don’t venture out regularly. These dogs may be excitable, under-socialised, or unfamiliar with polite greetings.
What to Watch For:
Be cautious when meeting unfamiliar dogs and keep greetings short and controlled, especially if you’re managing multiple dogs at once. A little bit of extra distance can go a long way in preventing unnecessary drama.
Winter Walking Tips:
- Protect their paws with dog-safe wax or boots if it’s icy.
- Stay on lead near unfamiliar decorations or displays that could spook them.
10. Celebrate Together
Christmas is all about family, and that includes your dogs. Let them join in the festivities in a way that suits their personalities. Maybe they’d enjoy wearing a festive bandana, having their own stocking filled with toys, or posing for a family photo under the tree.
Remember:
The best gift you can give your dogs is your time and attention. A cuddle on the sofa with your furry family members might just be the highlight of your Christmas.
Final Thoughts
Christmas with a multi-dog household can feel a bit like juggling baubles, but with some planning and a focus on your dogs’ needs, it’s entirely possible to have a calm and joyful holiday. By building in quiet times, managing excitement, and sticking to their routines, you can ensure that everyone—both two- and four-legged—has a brilliant Christmas.
Here’s to a holiday full of wagging tails and festive cheer! 🎄🐾
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