8 Ways to Spend the Holidays With Your Dog

It’s the holidays and the most wonderful time of the year for everyone.

But no matter if the weather outside is frightful or not, your energetic pooch is ready to play. Spending the holidays with your furry bestie is a gift in itself, and of course, you want to make every minute special!

We’ve compiled 8 ways to make it a holly jolly Christmas, happy Hanukkah or cool Zwanza for your pupster. Read on to find out how!

A staycation is always a blast! Pack up your pooch and head to a local hotel for a well-deserved rest in a big king-sized bed. Plan on watching movies while cuddling and feasting on special snacks. Bring along yummy holiday-inspired dog treats for your furry four-legger, their favorite toys, and blankets so they feel right at home.

Is your pupster photogenic? Grab cute costumes and playful props for your pooch to pose with. Tips for getting great photos:

• Keep the guest list small and a reasonable size
• Make sure the dogs on the list are socialized
• Start the festivities with a walk so that the dogs can get accustomed to each other
• Play fetch with snowballs as opposed to tennis balls where possessiveness may be a factor
• Not all dogs get along when food is involved, so give out doggy bags as the guests leave
  

Has your woofer been well-behaved this year? Reward them with a fun shopping spree for new toys, a sparkling leash, and a new collar. Keep your pupster on the leash while in the shop and practice their socialization and manners as you navigate the store aisles.

Make your pup’s day by setting out on a stroll to a nearby holiday parade. Is Old St. Nick in town? Cheer Santa on as he moves by on a festively decorated parade float.

Dog walking is one of the best activities at holiday time. Winter walks are exhilarating and tons of fun for your tail-wagger. Trekking in winter conditions? Keep your pooch safe and healthy when walking in winter. Protect your dog’s paws and keep them warm with a jacket.

Do you have furiends with party-minded pooches? Hold a backyard party for the pups in your neighborhood. To ensure success, keep these tips in mind:

• Keep the guest list small and a reasonable size
• Make sure the dogs on the list are socialized
• Start the festivities with a walk so that the dogs can get accustomed to each other
• Play fetch with snowballs as opposed to tennis balls where possessiveness may be a factor
• Not all dogs get along when food is involved, so give out doggy bags as the guests leave
  

Take your dog for a walk or a drive in the car to enjoy the holiday light displays. Dress your pupster for the weather, with a cozy coat and booties for the feet if you are on foot. Good places to look for displays are at Christmas markets and outside shopping centers.

What could be better than watching your furball tear through paper to find a yummy homemade dog biscuit or a squeaky new toy? Making your pooch dog-approved Christmas cookies is loads of fun, and no doubt your dog will happily taste test a sample or two!

If your wanderings take you out amidst the crowds, be vigilant, and make sure your furry companion is not nervous or feeling overwhelmed. Watch for these signs of distress:

• Ears flattened back
• Tail tucked in
• Not making eye contact
• Licking their lips
• Yawning or panting
• Not willing to walk
• Shaking
• Pacing

Remember your dog may be feeling cold without you realizing it. If they attempt to lie down, are slowing down, shivering, or whining, head for the warmth of home.

Is your dog shy or timid? Do they mind the chilly weather? Don’t be afraid to spend the holidays close to home, either doing activities like indoor games, baking, or watching a holiday movie. Spending time with your pupster is the main focus and you want them to have the happiest holiday pawsible!