Have a relaxed Christmas with your dog

Christmas is often unexpected and comes suddenly, which can be stressful for many people. Between the hunt for the perfect presents, decorating the house and the Christmas tree, and the hectic everyday work routine, the contemplative time can quickly turn into stress. This hustle and bustle does not go unnoticed by our dogs. Although they do not understand the reason for the hectic activity, they sense our tension, which can irritate and unsettle them. In sensitive animals, this can even manifest itself in restlessness or gastrointestinal problems. But don't worry, there are ways to keep a cool head despite the hustle and bustle and make the holidays relaxed for you and your dog. We give you tips on how to have a relaxed Christmas with your four-legged friend.

Content: Relaxed Christmas with your dog

• How do you recognize a stressed dog?
• Rest area for the dog
• Preparing children
• Walks are reserved for you and the dog.
• The holiday meal is not for the dog
• No chocolate for the dog
• Better leave the dog at home
• Decoration can be dangerous
• Conclusion

How do you recognize a stressed dog?

Stressed dogs often show restlessness by wandering aimlessly around the house. Other symptoms of stress include excessive barking , panting, noticeably heavy shedding of the fur, or even diarrhea. Stress can also affect appetite, causing dogs to eat less or not at all. Sleep disorders are also possible, especially when unfamiliar situations throw them off their routine. For young dogs experiencing their first Christmas, the sudden change in the behavior of the "pack" and the new surroundings, such as a suddenly appearing Christmas tree, can be confusing. They may wonder why everything is suddenly so hectic and why there is less time for them. Older dogs, especially those who have moved to new families, may be just as sensitive to the unfamiliar Christmas traditions. It is important to pay attention to your dog's atypical behavior and reflect on your own behavior over the last few days in order to identify possible causes for the dog's restlessness.

Rest area for the dog

If you have guests over the holidays, make sure your dog has his own quiet place that he can use at any time. Make it clear to your guests politely but clearly that this area is reserved for the dog and that he should not be disturbed there. If you are going to visit relatives or friends, take a familiar blanket or dog bed for your dog. The familiar smells will help him to adjust more quickly and stay relaxed even in unfamiliar surroundings. Many dogs enjoy being stroked and scratched. If they are looking for attention, they will let you know - let them come to you.

Relaxed Christmas with dog - preparing children

Ask the children to leave the dog alone when it is in its sleeping place. Explain to them that the dog needs peace and quiet there. Show them how to recognize when the dog does not want to be disturbed and stress the importance of respecting its privacy. Encourage the children to give the dog the space it needs and explain that this is a form of consideration and affection.

Walks are reserved for you and the dog.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle and preparations for the holidays, don't forget to plan quiet and relaxed walks with your dog. Avoid rushing off; instead, consciously take time for yourself and your four-legged friend. These moments of peace are not only valuable for your dog. You yourself will find that after the walk you approach your tasks with new energy and more composure. Because truly, there is strength in calmness.

Relaxed Christmas with dog - The holiday meal is not for the dog

Make sure that your dog is not fed roast goose, fatty sauces or desserts unnoticed during mealtimes, especially when there are guests who do not have dogs themselves. What is delicious for us can be too fatty and too spicy for dogs and cause stomach problems. Instead, have special dog-friendly treats on hand. This way, your guests can spoil the dog in a safe way and you do not have to worry about your four-legged friend's health. Another advantage of prepared dog treats is that you can keep an eye on how much your dog is snacking on to avoid overfeeding.

Relaxed Christmas with dog - no chocolate for the dog.

During the Christmas holidays, it is customary in many households to provide a plate of chocolate, biscuits and chocolates. It is important to ensure that this plate is placed out of reach of your dog. Chocolate in particular, especially if it contains alcohol, is dangerous for dogs and can cause poisoning.

Relaxed Christmas with dog - better leave dog at home.

Before you go to visit family or meet friends, consider whether it is better to leave your dog at home. Avoid stressful situations for him, such as the hustle and bustle of the Christmas market or boring visits. If he is used to being alone, he will relax and rest at home. Take him for a long walk beforehand so that he comes home satisfied and tired.

Relaxed Christmas with dog - decoration can be dangerous

Festive decorations are an important part of the holiday season, but as a dog owner, you should make sure they don't pose a danger to your four-legged friend. Be careful with spray-canned snow, glitter, tinsel, poinsettias, scented oils, fairy lights and other decorative items as these will pique your dog's curiosity and could be accidentally ingested. Make sure poisonous plants and sharp objects are out of his reach. Be especially careful if your dog has a tendency to chew on objects. Chewing on fairy lights, especially when they are plugged in, can be dangerous. There is also a risk that the dog could get caught in the cords and panic. You don't have to forgo decorations, but make sure cords are securely routed and not lying loose where the dog can easily access them.

Conclusion

In summary, it is important for dog owners to take extra care of their dog's well-being and safety during the holiday season. Make sure that festive decorations do not pose any hazards and ensure that poisonous plants and dangerous objects are out of reach of your dog. Plan quiet walks and create a safe place for your dog to retreat to to provide peace and relaxation during the holiday hustle and bustle. When visiting family or participating in other activities, consider whether it is better for your dog to stay at home.