The holidays are a joyful season filled with gatherings, food, and celebrations—but for many pets, especially dogs with anxiety, this time of year can feel overwhelming. Changes in routine, unfamiliar visitors, travel, and exposure to dangerous holiday items can all increase stress levels for your dog. As your calendar fills with cooking, shopping, and social events, it’s important not to overlook your pet’s needs. The tips below are designed to help you enjoy a calm, safe, and pet-friendly holiday season—this year and well into the future.
To start, consistency is key. Dogs thrive on routine, and sticking to their regular schedule can significantly reduce anxiety. Try to keep feeding times, walks, playtime, and potty breaks as close to normal as possible. Even during busy days, maintaining this structure provides comfort and stability for your dog. If you expect to be away from home for extended periods, leave behind interactive toys or long-lasting treats to keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated until you return.
Planning ahead is especially important if you’re hosting guests. Dogs that are sensitive to noise or unfamiliar people can easily become overstimulated. If you know your dog gets nervous around strangers, prepare a quiet retreat where they can decompress. This might be a crate or a cozy corner in a separate room, stocked with familiar bedding and favorite toys. Let your guests know that your dog may need space and ask them not to disturb your pet while they’re resting.
It’s also important to manage expectations around social interaction. Some dogs simply don’t enjoy meeting new people, and forcing interaction can increase fear or defensive behavior. Respect your dog’s boundaries and allow them to choose whether or not to engage. On the flip side, overly friendly dogs who jump on visitors may need some training or management before guests arrive. Addressing this ahead of time can make gatherings more enjoyable for everyone involved.
With doors opening and closing frequently, there’s also a higher risk of pets slipping outside unnoticed. Make sure your dog is wearing a secure collar with up-to-date identification tags at all times. This simple precaution can make a huge difference if your dog accidentally wanders off. Taking these steps helps create a calmer, safer environment for both your guests and your pet.
Holiday foods and decorations pose another serious concern. Many seasonal treats are toxic to dogs and should always be kept out of reach. Grapes, raisins, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, and rich table scraps are especially dangerous, with chocolate being potentially fatal even in small quantities. Decorative items like tinsel, ornaments, and breakable decorations should be placed high on the tree or secured to prevent chewing or accidental ingestion. A little extra caution can prevent a trip to the emergency veterinarian.
If your holiday plans include traveling or attending events away from home, consider your dog’s care carefully. Research your options in advance and choose what best supports your pet’s well-being. While hiring a pet sitter may seem convenient, dogs are social animals and may struggle if left alone too long. Quality pet sitters can also be costly, and the level of care may vary.
Boarding your dog at a veterinary clinic or reputable kennel is often a reliable alternative, especially during the holidays. Be sure to book early, as availability can fill up quickly. If the facility is new to you, schedule a tour beforehand to ensure it’s clean, safe, and well-staffed. Keep in mind that most boarding facilities require dogs to be current on vaccinations, so plan accordingly.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, we wish you and your pets a peaceful, healthy, and happy holiday season. Thank you for being part of our community, and we look forward to sharing more helpful pet tips and stories with you in the year ahead.
This post is brought to you by Rocky Mountain Pooper Scoopers. They proudly serve the Greater Salt Lake City area, including Sandy, West Jordan, and Taylorsville, offering dependable and affordable pet waste removal services. Call (385) 392-0791 today for your free estimate—weekly rates start at just $18.00. Visit their website at rockymountainpooperscoopers.com to read reviews and learn more.
Happy Tails!
