Christmas time is fun, exciting and very stressful with a lot of chaos and changes in decor around the house.
For puppies it can be fun but also stressful which can lead to anxiety.
In this guide we will give you 15 tips on how to help your puppy cope through this period of festivity
- Create a Safe Space:
Designate a quiet, calm area for your puppy to retreat to when the festive activities become overwhelming. - Maintain a Routine:
Try to keep your puppy’s eating and walking times consistent, even amidst the holiday chaos. - Limit Decorations:
While Christmas decorations are beautiful, they can be confusing and even hazardous to puppies. Keep them minimal and out of reach. - Supervise:
Keep a close eye on your pup amidst the festivities to prevent them from getting into trouble. - Socialize Gradually:
Introduce your puppy to small groups of people first to help them get used to larger crowds. - Use Calming Aids:
Consider using puppy-friendly calming aids if your pet shows signs of anxiety. - Avoid Festive Foods:
Many Christmas foods are harmful to dogs. Keep them out of your puppy’s reach. - Exercise:
A tired puppy is a happy puppy. Regular exercise will help keep your pet calm. - Provide Chew Toys:
Chew toys can help distract and soothe an anxious puppy. - Use Soft Music:
Soft music can help calm your puppy and drown out potentially stressful festive noises. - Training:
Prepare your puppy for the festive season with basic training commands. - Control Visitors:
Too many people can overwhelm your puppy. Control the flow of visitors in your home. - Distract With Games:
Keep your puppy engaged with games and toys to distract them from the chaos. - Use a Comforting Blanket:
A blanket that smells of you can be comforting to your puppy. - Get Professional Help:
If your puppy shows severe signs of anxiety, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
