Safe Paws

December brings warmth‭, ‬lights and celebration into our homes‭, ‬but for dogs‭, ‬it can also be a time of overstimulation‭, ‬unpredictable noise and disrupted routines‭. ‬Even the calmest dogs can feel unsettled when their familiar environment suddenly becomes busier‭, ‬brighter and noisier‭. ‬With a little preparation‭, ‬you can ensure your dog feels secure‭, ‬confident and deeply loved throughout the festive period‭.‬

Protect the routine as much as possible

Dogs rely on predictability‭, ‬and Christmas often disrupts the usual flow of life‭. ‬Keep mealtimes‭, ‬walks and bedtime consistent‭, ‬even on busy days‭. ‬If you know a particular day will be hectic‭, ‬plan a calm‭, ‬grounding walk earlier to help your dog burn off energy and reduce stress‭.‬

Create a designated calm space

Set up a cosy retreat away from visitors‭, ‬wrapping paper‭, ‬deliveries and party sounds‭. ‬Use your dog’s favourite bed‭, ‬soft blankets and a comforting item that smells like you‭. ‬A pheromone diffuser or calming room spray can help reinforce a sense of safety‭. ‬Some dogs prefer a covered crate‭ ‬‮—‬‭ ‬a‭ ‬“den”‭ ‬effect can block out visual stimulation and create a peaceful sanctuary‭.

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Introduce festive changes thoughtfully

Christmas decorations can be confusing for dogs‭: ‬flashing lights‭, ‬new scents and unusual shapes‭. ‬Decorate gradually‭, ‬allowing your dog to sniff and understand new items‭. ‬Avoid placing fragile‭, ‬edible or tempting decorations at dog height‭. ‬If your dog is anxious around the tree‭, ‬consider placing a baby gate or decorative barrier to create safe distance‭.‬

Support your dog around guests

Not all dogs enjoy the excitement of visitors‭. ‬Let your dog choose how and when to socialise‭. ‬Ask guests to greet calmly‭, ‬avoid‭ ‬crowding‭, ‬and let the dog come to them‭. ‬Keep treats handy so positive experiences are easily reinforced‭. ‬For dogs who prefer quiet company‭, ‬schedule breaks in their safe space throughout the day‭.‬

Manage festive noise

Fireworks‭, ‬Christmas crackers‭, ‬loud laughter and clinking glasses can startle even confident dogs‭. ‬Close curtains early‭, ‬put on‭ ‬gentle background music and create a cocooned atmosphere‭. ‬You can mask unpredictable noise with a white noise machine or calming‭ ‬playlist designed for dogs‭. ‬A well-fitted anxiety wrap or calming supplement recommended by your vet may help further‭.‬

Give your dog festive-friendly outlets

Stimulation doesn’t always mean excitement‭ ‬‮—‬‭ ‬dogs also need calm‭, ‬structured activities‭. ‬Rotate long-lasting chews‭, ‬snuffle mats‭, ‬puzzle feeders and lick mats throughout December‭. ‬These encourage relaxation through nosework and chewing‭, ‬both of which naturally reduce stress‭ ‬hormones‭.

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Prioritise exercise and mental enrichment

A mentally and physically satisfied dog is far more resilient during busy seasons‭. ‬Add variety to walks‭: ‬explore a new route‭, ‬practise obedience in a quiet field or let your dog enjoy extra sniffing time‭. ‬Sniffing is one of the easiest‭, ‬most powerful ways‭ ‬to calm the canine brain‭.‬

Travel thoughtfully

If travelling‭, ‬pack familiarity‭: ‬bedding‭, ‬toys‭, ‬food‭, ‬bowls and a favourite jumper of yours for comfort‭. ‬When arriving somewhere‭ ‬new‭, ‬show your dog where they can rest undisturbed‭. ‬Introduce new environments slowly‭ ‬‮—‬‭ ‬don’t overwhelm them with immediate socialising‭.

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Watch for subtle signs of stress

Panting‭, ‬pacing‭, ‬yawning‭, ‬hiding‭, ‬licking lips‭, ‬refusing food‭, ‬or becoming clingy are all indicators your dog needs a break‭. ‬Respond early and gently‭ ‬‮—‬‭ ‬prevention is far easier than trying to soothe a distressed dog‭.

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Keep the focus on connection

Amidst presents and parties‭, ‬what your dog values most is your calm presence and consistent reassurance‭. ‬Slow‭, ‬gentle interactions‭, ‬quiet cuddles and peaceful evening walks can make Christmas magical for both of you‭.‬