(Updated November 2024) Christmas is widely celebrated as a time of joy and excitement for many of us. However, this festive period can be quite overwhelming for our canine companions. The hustle and bustle of family gatherings, the constant noise, and the break from routine can lead to dog anxiety at Christmas. Preventing dog anxiety during all this madness can be tricky, to say the least!
But fear not! As a responsible pet owner, you have numerous strategies at your disposal to ensure your dog remains calm and happy during the Christmas festivities – which we’ll explore in this article!
1. Create a comforting safe space
Much like the Halloween period, creating a designated safe space for your dog is crucial during the busy Christmas period. This area should be quiet and removed from the festive activities, providing a sanctuary where your dog can retreat when the celebrations become too intense.
Enhance this space with your dog’s favourite soft blankets and pillows, and perhaps include a familiar-scented item, like a piece of your clothing, to add an extra layer of comfort. Consider also adding white noise machines or calming pheromone diffusers for an added sense of security. This haven will not only help reduce your dog’s anxiety but also prevent any disruptive behaviour that might arise from stress.
2. Maintain regular routines
The Christmas season often disrupts our normal routines, but it’s important to maintain consistency for your dog. Stick to their regular schedule for walks, meals, and bedtime. This may mean sacrificing those holiday lie-ins or adjusting your plans, but it’s a small price to pay.
A consistent routine provides your dog with a sense of security and predictability, which is particularly comforting during times of change and can be instrumental in keeping anxiety at bay. Also, if guests are staying over, ensure they are aware of your dog’s schedule to minimise disruptions.
3. Gradually introduce festive changes
The festive season introduces lots of changes to your dog’s environment, from sparkling decorations and unfamiliar faces to unusual smells and loud noises. These changes can be unsettling for your dog, potentially triggering anxiety and fear.
To help, introduce Christmassy changes gradually. Let your dog explore and become accustomed to new decorations at their own pace, and try to minimise sudden loud noises or disruptions. This approach allows your dog to adapt slowly to the new environment, reducing the likelihood of stress and ensuring they remain calm while you and your guests have some mulled wine!
4. Manage noise and distractions
Loud noises and boisterous activities are common during Christmas celebrations – especially when an aunt or uncle has had an extra G&T! You can help manage these disturbances by soundproofing your dog’s safe space using blankets and curtains. These materials can absorb sound, creating a quieter environment.
Additionally, provide your dog with engaging toys to keep them distracted from the noise. Playing soft, soothing background music or white noise can also help mask disruptive sounds, offering a calming effect for your anxious pet.
5. Encourage play and physical activity
Regular exercise and play are vital for your dog’s mental and physical well-being, especially during the holiday season. Engage your dog in outdoor activities, like long walks or games in the park. These activities release endorphins, which naturally alleviate stress. A tired dog is also more likely to sleep through noisy gatherings, providing you and your pet with a peaceful evening!
Also, if you’re fortunate to experience a snowy Christmas, seize the opportunity for some unique playtime, like frolicking in the snow or enjoying dog-friendly sledging. Just be careful and make sure all humans and dogs alike are strapped in safely! Just remember to rinse off any salt or grit from your dog’s paws after outdoor activities to avoid irritation.
6. Play interactive games and puzzles
Using brain games and puzzles is an excellent way to reduce your dog’s anxiety during Christmas. These activities are not only engaging but also help channel your dog’s energy positively. Simple treat-based games or puzzles can keep your dog mentally stimulated and focused, a godsend during the busy festive season!
You can either create DIY puzzles or opt for store-bought toys. For example, treat-dispensing toys that challenge your dog to release a reward can provide hours of entertainment. These games not only divert your dog’s attention from stressors but also promote mental fatigue, leading to a calmer and more relaxed pet. Consider also rotating toys throughout the holiday season to keep your dog engaged and prevent boredom!
Try our Serene Calming range this festive season!
Let’s not forget our four-legged family members in the holiday hustle and bustle! Thankfully, we here at VETIQ have a few helpful products to ensure your dog wags its way through the festive season with ease and joy:
- Serene Calming Ointment is designed for all dog breeds and ages, releasing calming pheromones upon application to the nose and offering rapid relief within 20 minutes. This all-natural, sedative-free solution is ideal for dogs experiencing anxiety during the hectic festive period. Its patented formula is scientifically proven to calm and settle your pet quickly and effectively. Fast-acting and safe, it can be used as needed without limitations and alongside other calming products. Help your dog stay calm this Christmas with our award-winning Serene Calming Ointment. Voted PetQuip Product of the Year 2024, it’s the perfect calming aid to keep on hand for the festive season!
- Serene Calming Drops offers a perfect solution for a stress-free holiday for your pet. Enriched with a special blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, they target everyday anxieties related to noise, travel, and separation. Easily mixed into your pet’s food or water, they provide consistent, non-drowsy calmness – it’s like a little daily dose of holiday cheer for your furry friend!
- Serene Calming Tablets are natural dietary supplements that are packed with a unique blend of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. These tablets work by naturally calming and soothing your pet and are an invaluable aid for the anxiety they may experience during fireworks, thunderstorms, travel, hyperactivity, or when left home alone. Serene Calming tablets truly are a crucial step towards a more peaceful pet this yuletide!
With the dynamic trio of Serene Calming at your side, your dog’s holiday season is set to be as bright and merry as yours. Whether it’s the everyday calm of the drops or the quick fix of the ointment, your pet is covered for a tail-wagging, jolly Christmas!
Finally, we at VETIQ want to wish you and your beloved canine companions a magical and happy holiday. May your days be filled with joy, laughter, and lots of cosy cuddles with your furry friends – Merry Christmas!
