Navigating Holiday Hurdles: A Guide to Keeping Your Pup Jolly and Calm
As we embrace the festive spirit of the holidays, our furry companions may face a few challenges in the joyful hustle and bustle. I'm here to share insights and detailed tips on why your dog might be acting out and how you can ensure a harmonious holiday season.
Changes in Routine:
The weather transforms, leading to changes in daily routines. Even in the chilly weather, don't skimp on walks or rush through potty breaks. Dogs can adjust, so stick to your usual times and habits. Embrace the cold with a positive attitude to maintain a happy and calm energy. If you're anxious, your dog might hesitate— not because they're cold, but because their leader seems fearful. Give your furry friend a break if there's a bit of hesitation or an accident – they're doing their best to follow you. Strive to keep routines as normal as possible, and while shorter walks are okay, skipping them is not the solution.
Increased Guests:
Homes are opened to a greater number of guests, potentially causing disruptions. Designate a special "spot" for your dog during the holidays. Instead of isolating them or shutting them away, provide a secure room untouched by human traffic. If your dog isn't comfortable around people, consider a festive muzzle, employing the same methods mentioned earlier. For dogs who prefer closed kennels, keep them away from guests. Kindly ask guests and children not to tap on, feed, or engage in conversation through the kennel or designated "spot." Ensure your dog can always see you – avoid kenneling behind closed doors to prevent unnecessary stress.
Limited Food Samples:
Maintain the joy of sharing holiday meals with your dog by introducing a fun tradition. Create a special plate for your furry friend, allowing both you and guests to serve delightful hand samples. This way, you can carefully curate the offerings on your dog's plate, ensuring a mix of dog-friendly human foods and steering clear of any potential hazards. Place the plate in your dog's designated "spot" or a safe area, away from the hustle and bustle. This not only keeps the pack dynamic intact but ensures safety for everyone involved.
For those who typically don't share human food with their pets, there's no need to banish all the tempting smells. Treat your dog in their cozy "spot" with an abundance of their favorite high-value treats. For instance, if your pup usually enjoys a rawhide stick, consider swapping it out for a rawhide bone this time around.
Isolation or Neglect:
Dogs may find themselves separated, kenneled, or overlooked more than usual. In moments when doors need closing, kennels come into play, or our dogs embark on a winter camp adventure at a boarding facility, remember that, in their world, this is a brief separation from the pack. Approach these decisions with a joyful spirit and words that resonate with positivity. Introducing sadness, sorrow, or anxiety to a dog already feeling a bit "exiled" can adversely impact their experience. Whether it's a quiet time in their room or kennel, a stay with Auntie So and So, or a boarding facility, frame it as an exciting part of their routine – similar to when you head off to work. Instead of tears, share your departure with enthusiasm, conveying a message of love and anticipation for the joyful reunion. Dogs comprehend in terms of forever, lacking the emotional intelligence to draw their own conclusions. Guide them to part with happiness, sustain their stay with joy, and welcome them back home with gladness.
Elevated Energy and Noise:
People's vibes become amped up, resulting in a noisier environment. Get the paw-ty started before your guests arrive! Crank up the tunes, bust a move, and show your dog that louder is way more fun. Amp up the volume of your voice, throw in some hearty laughs. This pre-party dance routine will prep your pup for the incoming excitement. Avoid the sudden shock of silence turning into a fiesta, which might trigger some unexpected barking or jumping. Be the trendsetter and kick off the celebration with your fur babies first!
Owner Stress and Communication Challenges:
Embrace the holiday season with positivity and guide your furry friends through potential communication challenges. Acknowledge that stress might arise as we navigate the festivities, and that's perfectly okay. Share your genuine feelings—whether it's excitement or stress—with your dog. Dogs value authenticity, and your openness creates a positive atmosphere. Remember, managing stress is crucial. Own your emotions to strengthen your own well-being and balanced behavior. By doing so, you not only lead with positivity but also provide your dog with the guidance and reassurance they need during the holiday season.
Neglected Habits and Disregarded Boundaries:
Upholding established habits is crucial to prevent any unwanted antics from our furry companions. You've put in consistent effort throughout the year, especially in ensuring your dogs refrain from things such as; kitchen escapades. Now, with guests around, it's normal to have a momentary lapse in those routines. The remedy? Once you recall or notice your dog in the kitchen (for example), reinforce their standard "out," "get out of the kitchen," or "go to place" command. Changing it up just to save face with guests may lead to confusion for your dog. Whether you typically use a firm tone or opt for a gentler approach, stick to your usual script. Consistency is the cornerstone. Don't overlook those regular commands that help your dog navigate their everyday boundaries at home. These gentle corrections foster a sense of harmony and comprehension in your dog's world during the holiday hustle. So, in the midst of change, stick to your routine – your pup will appreciate the stability!
These are the most common factors that contribute to dogs becoming mischievous during the holiday season. All these little missed steps by us humans or our energy changes are what contribute to our dogs misbehaving during the holiday season.
Remember, these tips aren't just for the holidays; they're versatile strategies for handling any deviation from the daily routine. Embrace the joy, be authentic, and let your dog be your guide to a stress-free season.
Wishing you and your furry friends a paw-sitively wonderful holiday season!
“Seek balance, cultivate calm, and let authenticity light up this holiday season.”
