Christmas can be a stressful time for a lot of people, but at least as people, we know what’s going on. To our poor pets, there’s just a load of excitement, more food and smells, wrapping paper, more people, and no idea why, so the least you can do is prepare them for it, but how?
Stick to your normal routine
Dogs love their routine, and while things might be different for you over the Christmas period, and you think nothing of feeding them at a different time or missing the morning walk, they will certainly notice it. Try to keep the routine and feed your dog at their normal time, take them for their normal walk and give them as much attention as you would on any other day.
Make sure your dog has a safe space
If you are having people over for Christmas, then make sure your dog has a safe space to go to and get away from all the noise. Visitors can be exhausting for you and your dog, but you can’t just go and lie down in bed, but it’s important that they can. If your dog gets quite stressed, then it’s important that they have this space as well as some hemp dog treats, which will keep them feeling relaxed and loved.
Beware of toxins in wrapping paper
While your dog may love nothing more than to play with the excess wrapping paper that’s strewn all over the floor, be aware that some wrapping paper contains harmful chemicals such as bleach and chlorine, which can be dangerous to dogs when ingested. It’s probably best to leave your dog’s presents unwrapped or use a very simple paper if they love unwrapping.
Give them a good Christmas dinner
It’s perfectly fine to give your pup a special Christmas dinner, but just be careful what you give them and don’t give them exactly the same as you would have. White turkey meat and some veg are absolutely fine, but onions and even onion powder, which is used in gravy or stuffing mixes, can cause liver damage. Also, remember that cooked bones are too soft for them to chew and can splinter and cause internal damage.
Keep chocolate in a safe place
Chocolate is one of those things that is everywhere at Christmas, and while it would be devastating for you if your dog ate all your chocolate but it will also be devastating for them because chocolate is very dangerous for dogs to ingest. You could, however, buy them some dog-safe chocolate to enjoy on the day but make sure you keep yours out of reach.
Buy fun dog toys
If everyone else is getting toys and presents, then it’s only fair that your dog does too, and having some new dog toys will also keep your pooch busy and occupied with all the hustle and bustle going on around them. Get them something that they love, and make sure you get a chance to play with them during the day.