Those of us who consider our pups family members are eager to include them in holiday festivities – especially when you see other families, including their pups, in real life or on social media. But should you include them? And what are some great ways to include them?
Considerations
The most important thing is to consider your dog’s personality, training, and preferences. Some dogs are social butterflies that thrive being around people and other dogs. Others, like Cookie, may enjoy going out but prefer limited interactions. Most importantly, while your dog may have the personality for it, will they behave around others?
These are important questions, particularly when contemplating social activities such as seeing Santa and attending holiday parties.
Beyond your dog’s preferences, consider the venue. An important note with Santa photos is that not every event with Santa is dog-friendly. Each year, there seem to be more events with dog-friendly opportunities to take a photo with Santa. Be sure to research in advance and plan accordingly. The Santas at these events are more likely to be dog lovers and have experience with various dog personalities.
Many community holiday events and happenings may be dog-friendly, especially outdoors, but check beforehand.
If you want to bring your pup to a family or friend’s holiday party, ask the host if your pup is welcome. Even if they are, consider the venue and personalities. Has your pup been there before? Is there a space for your dog to escape the crowd if they are overwhelmed? For outdoor events in warmer climates, is the yard fenced in? Will there be other dogs there, too? Have your pups met before? If not, and they don’t get along, how will you handle it? (Don’t assume that if the other pup is “trouble,” the other pawrent will leave or crate their dog.)
Hosting a party? Check out the below post from behaviorist Renee Rhodes on Instagram for great tips on prioritizing your pup’s needs when hosting.
Advent calendar
Anyone following us on Instagram may have seen us doing an advent calendar with the pups this year. I purchased the bone-shaped calendar on clearance after Christmas last year.
You can fill each pocket with an activity to do with your pups or insert a treat. Next year, I may alternate an activity day with a treat day!
Some activities that you can include are:
- Having a pup cup
- Making dog biscuits
- Taking a photo with Santa
- Christmas shopping
- Having a howliday pawty
- Watching howliday movies
Better yet, you can buy a pre-made advent calendar! After planning our custom advent calendar, I found the above advent calendar from ZippyPaws (https://amzn.to/47PdbdQ – I’m an Amazon affiliate and can earn from qualifying purchases).
I had to get it because Chip LOVES their burrow toys. So, since yesterday, we’ve also been opening up this calendar. There are also pre-made ones with treats. What I like about this ZippyPaws calendar is that it has toys (I haven’t seen many). Plus, the box seems sturdy enough that I can save it to reuse in another year, potentially mixing it up with toys and treats one day (toys for Chip and treats for Cookie) with an activity the next – plus, have a shorter advent season!
‘Tis the season
The bottom line is to remember your pup’s preferences and to HAVE FUN no matter what you do (or don’t do).
We wish you happy howlidays! I’ll be back in two weeks with the next new post!
Merry Woofmas!
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