Holidays are a time for joy, togetherness, and special memories—and naturally, you’ll want your new puppy to be part of those moments. But with all the excitement, decorations, and guests, holiday celebrations can be overwhelming for a young pup. By planning ahead and creating a puppy-friendly environment, you can include your puppy in the festivities while keeping them safe and stress-free.
Start with a Calm Introduction to Decorations
Holiday decorations are fun for people, but they can be confusing or even dangerous for puppies. Introduce decorations slowly and make sure your puppy doesn’t have access to cords, tinsel, candles, or glass ornaments. Place fragile items out of reach and avoid anything that can be easily chewed or swallowed. Consider using soft or fabric-based decorations in areas your puppy can access.
Set Boundaries During Gatherings
If you’re hosting guests or visiting others, set clear boundaries for your puppy. Use baby gates or playpens to create safe zones where your puppy can relax without getting underfoot. Let visitors know your puppy’s rules—especially if there are children who may be tempted to play too rough or feed them table scraps.
Stick to Your Puppy’s Routine
Holidays can throw off regular schedules, but puppies thrive on routine. Try to keep your puppy’s feeding, bathroom, nap, and playtimes consistent, even during a busy celebration. If your puppy knows when to expect meals and quiet time, they’ll be less likely to become overstimulated or anxious.
Watch for Holiday Foods That Can Harm Puppies
Many holiday dishes contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs, including chocolate, onions, grapes, cooked bones, and rich or fatty foods. Politely remind guests not to feed the puppy from the table, and consider giving your puppy a safe holiday treat of their own, like a chew toy or a puppy-safe biscuit, so they can join the fun without risk.
Provide a Quiet Escape Space
Even the most social puppies can get tired during loud or crowded events. Set up a quiet room with your puppy’s bed, water, and a favorite toy where they can go to rest. Keep the door open so they can come and go as they please. This allows them to feel secure and prevents stress from too much stimulation.
Supervise Gift Unwrapping and Festive Activities
Gift wrapping, ribbons, and packaging materials can pose choking hazards if left on the floor. Keep an eye on your puppy during these activities and clean up scraps promptly. If your puppy likes to “help,” offer them a wrapped toy of their own to open under supervision.
Celebrate with Puppy-Friendly Traditions
Including your puppy in holiday moments can be both fun and safe. Take a family photo with your puppy, go for a winter walk, or let them open a stocking with pet-safe items. These small touches help your puppy feel like part of the family while keeping the celebration stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Including your puppy in holiday celebrations is a wonderful way to bond and create memories. With a few simple adjustments and a focus on safety, your puppy can enjoy the holidays right alongside you. As you build these early traditions, you’re also helping your puppy grow into a well-adjusted and social companion.