Turkey time is getting closer, and you may even be ready to just hear those sleigh bells jingling–ring-ting-tingling too!
The holidays are exciting, busy–and stressful. With your schedule completely upended and a sudden influx of visitors, it is all too easy to experience some festive frustration.
Have you ever thought that your dog might feel the same way? Holidays can be a confusing, stressful time for pets, but a few dog training tips and tricks can go a long way to keeping them comfortable and happy.
Luckily, Top Dog is here to help! Top Dog Training and Resort is the best dog trainer near me in Durham, NC, Chapel Hill, NC, and Mebane, NC.
Our state-of-the-art K9 boarding and training facility offers grooming, board dog training, and a dog day training center with a lifetime guarantee!
Our certified dog trainers have compiled their best advice for helping your dog with seasonal anxiety so that they can have happy, healthy holidays!
Why Do Dogs Get Stressed During the Holidays?
Before you can help your furry friend, it’s important to think about the causes and signs of holiday anxiety. Big events like Thanksgiving often overstimulate your dog, which can lead to fear and stress.
Holiday anxiety triggers for pets include:
- Routine changes
- New decorations
- Extra visitors
- Increased energy but decreased exercise
- Sensing stress their owners’ stress
If your pet is panting, pacing, barking excessively, digging, rubbing their nose on the floor or furniture, not eating, or having sudden accidents, they may be experiencing anxiety.
Recognizing these triggers and symptoms is the first step to easing your dog’s seasonal stress!
Dog Training Tips for the Holidays
Even if your dog isn’t exhibiting any anxiety symptoms, it’s a good idea to take preventative measures and address triggers either before or as soon as they arise.
The biggest thing that might frighten your dog is a change of routine. Holidays will necessitate routine changes, but if you can stick to your dog’s normal schedule as much as possible, they will feel more comfortable.
If you are hosting a big holiday event, like Thanksgiving or a holiday party, it’s a good idea to do some prep work:
- Set a consistent schedule that your dog can trust.
- Slowly introduce your dog to visitors and strangers, starting with one person and then adding smaller groups.
- Get your dog groomed so that they feel clean and relaxed.
- Consider enrolling your pet in a dog day training center or board dog training in the weeks leading up to the event.
On the day of the party, be sure to:
- Stick to your dog’s normal routine as much as possible.
- Give your dog enough exercise, such as adding an extra walk or play time to relieve excess energy.
- Create a safe space, away from guests and activity, where your dog can be during the party. Make sure it’s stocked with water, treats, toys, and a comfortable bed.
- Give your dog some attention, even when the party is in full swing so that they don’t feel neglected
If your dog experiences extended anxiety outside of normal holiday triggers, it might be time for a visit to your veterinarian.
K9 Training and Boarding with a Lifetime Guarantee
To help your dog feel safe and comfortable during the holiday season and beyond, reach out to Top Dog. We are the premier dog trainer near me in Durham, NC, Chapel Hill, NC, and Mebane, NC.
Top Dog’s dog training comes with a lifetime guarantee. Once your dog completes our program, we will give them one-on-one lessons with our certified trainers whenever they need some extra help, for the rest of their life.
Don’t wait! Contact us
