How to Prepare Your Dog for the Holidays (and Actually Enjoy Them This Year)
Are you wondering why stores are already swapping out pumpkins for Christmas trees when Halloween candy isn’t even half off yet?
Maybe it’s not just holiday marketing. Maybe it’s the universe reminding us it’s time to start preparing our dogs too.
Because for a lot of dogs, the holidays aren’t exactly relaxing. Guests coming and going, travel plans, new smells, flashing lights, disrupted routines, and unpredictable energy can all pile up fast. But with a little bit of prep (and maybe a Training Retreat to reset things), you can help your dog feel steady, confident, and ready to enjoy the season right alongside you.
Give Your Dog a Decompression Day Before Gatherings
If you’ve got a holiday get-together coming up, build in a quiet, nature-filled day beforehand. Go for a sniff walk, let your dog explore a trail, or take an off-leash decompression hike if that’s something they enjoy. A calm mind and body make it easier for your dog to handle social settings, noise, and change in routine.
Practice Guest Manners Before the Doorbell Rings
If your dog gets extra excited or nervous when people come over, start rehearsing now.
Practice calm door greetings, mat work, or a “go to your place” cue with friends or family before the big day. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s building familiarity and confidence before the real thing.
Create a Safe Zone
Your dog deserves a quiet space away from the chaos.
Set up a comfy retreat with their bed, chews, and maybe a sound machine to buffer the noise. Let guests know that space is off limits. Sometimes the best gift we can give our dogs during the holidays is permission to step away.
Hire Help if You’re Able To
If you already know the holidays are going to stretch you thin, that’s okay. It’s perfectly fair to ask for help.
Consider boarding your dog in a familiar, low-stress environment, hiring a trusted dog walker, or scheduling an adventure outing so your dog gets their needs met while you focus on family or travel. A little outside support can go a long way in keeping everyone balanced.
Keep an Eye on What’s Around the Table
Between dropped food, decorative plants, and helpful relatives sneaking snacks, the holidays come with a buffet of hazards.
Keep chocolate, cooked bones, grapes, onions, and rich foods out of reach. The last thing you want is an emergency vet visit in the middle of dinner.
How to Tell if Your Dog Can Handle a Large Gathering
Some dogs thrive on social energy. Others, not so much.
If your dog struggles with noise, fast movement, or unfamiliar people, consider smaller get-togethers or quiet time away from the action. Watch for signs like heavy panting, pacing, or constant vigilance. Those aren’t “bad manners.” They’re signs your dog is telling you they’re overwhelmed. Listening early helps prevent bigger behavior issues later.
When Your Dog Needs a Little More Support
Some dogs need more than a few practice sessions to feel comfortable with the holidays. That’s where a Freedom Found Training Retreat can make all the difference.
Our multi-week retreats are designed for dogs who need a reset before life gets busy. Each retreat includes:
3+ weeks of personalized training and enrichment
2 take-home sessions to support the transition home
A customized behavior plan to help your dog keep thriving
If your dog could use a calmer, more confident start to the season, now’s the time to book. Contact me here
Final Thought
The holidays are meant to be full of warmth, connection, and joy, not stress. By preparing early, you’re not just setting your dog up for success; you’re giving your whole family a better chance to actually enjoy the moments that matter.