It’s hard to believe the holidays almost upon us! Between now and the end of the year, we will be mingling with friends, coworkers, and families while indulging in food and drink. That means also keeping pets safe while hosting in our homes. Using management, obedience cues, and enrichment are ways to do just that.
Management
Management is a great way to help set a dog up for success. This is especially important for puppies who are still learning, or for dogs of any age who simply need their own space. Think of it like baby gates for toddlers—it keeps them safe and under supervision while giving them room to grow.
For your dog, a “managed” space might be a spare bedroom, a mudroom, or their crate. Does your dog already have a safe space they can retreat to when things get overwhelming? If not, now’s the time to start building that habit.
Waiting until the week before Thanksgiving isn’t ideal. Begin now by having your dog spend short, positive sessions in their designated area. Make it enticing with a stuffed Kong, Pupsicle, or a favorite chew (a safe one, of course!).
Some dogs can be overwhelmed by sudden activity or unfamiliar guests. A cozy retreat offers them a haven from the chaos—and it can also protect them from well-meaning visitors who love to sneak rich holiday foods to your pup.
Obedience Cues
Obedience cues are a great way to set expectations—for both humans and dogs—and keep holiday gatherings fun for everyone.
Are you hosting this year? Think about where you’d like your dog to be when you’re carving the bird or when guests are enjoying hors d’oeuvres in the family room.
Love to decorate? Make sure Fido doesn’t love to do his own decorating to the tree.
Helpful Cues. Teaching a dog “Place” can be very effective in preventing him from being underfoot. “Leave It” is helpful when she’s gazing a little too long at the bowl of mashed potatoes.
How about teaching “Wait” or “Stay”? These cues can make it easier for visitors to enter your home without being ambushed at the door.
Teaching these cues in advance—and using them consistently—provides the predictability your dog wants and needs.
Enrichment
Providing enrichment for your dog is a way to ensure your dog has a positive outlet to burn energy, build confidence, and enjoy a well-balanced life. Learning what works for your dog and trying new things will keep it fresh. These include physical and mental activities.
Physical Activities. Walks, swimming, play dates, day care, fetch, other sports, and tug are all ways to help your dog stay healthy and burn off energy. Keeping them on a consistent schedule during the holiday season will also help you enjoy less stressful holidays.
Mental Stimulation. This includes training, food puzzles, scent work, ball pits, and more. There is an endless supply of puzzles including Kongs, Pupsicles, Licky mats, and snuffle mats. Most of these can be frozen in advance and will come in handy when you need Fido occupied for a moment.
Holidays are busy times for everyone and can lead to stress. Working with your dog now can help reduce your stress, and theirs.