9 Things You Must Do To Keep Your Dog Safe And Calm During The Holidays: How To Create a Calm Space for Your Dog

The holiday season is an exciting time for many families, but it can be overwhelming for dogs due to increased noise, visitors, and changes in routine. As professional dog trainers at K9 KRAY, we recommend creating a calm, safe space for your dog to help them feel secure during this busy time. We know the holidays can be stressful for dogs, but with a little planning, you can create a safe, calm retreat where they feel secure. By providing consistency, comfort, and reducing potential stressors, you can ensure your dog stays happy and relaxed throughout the season. Here is what K9 KRAY recommends you to do:

1 - Designate a Quiet, Safe Area

• Choose the Right Spot: Find a low-traffic area in your home, such as a bedroom or a corner of a quiet room. This space should be away from the hustle and bustle of holiday activities, like loud gatherings or parties. Make sure it is far away from the entry door.

• Familiar and Comfortable: Use an area your dog is already familiar with to help reduce stress. Introduce them to the space before the holidays to establish positive associations.

2 - Make the Space Cozy

• Add Comfort: Include your dog’s favorite bed, blankets, or crate. If your dog is crate-trained, their crate can be an excellent retreat, as it provides a den-like environment that feels secure.

• Familiar Scents: Place an item with your scent or the dog’s favorite toys in the space to provide comfort and familiarity.

3 - Reduce Noise

• White Noise or Music: Use a white noise machine, fan, or calming music to drown out loud holiday sounds like fireworks, music, or chatter. Many streaming platforms offer playlists designed to soothe dogs. Search “ad free calm music for dogs” on YouTube, they have 10+ hour long playlist + it is free!

• Close Doors and Windows: Keep the area insulated from external noise by closing doors and windows, and consider using heavy curtains to reduce sound.

4 - Limit Access to Stressful Stimuli

• Control Visibility: If your dog is anxious around strangers or new situations, position their space where they can’t see the commotion. Use barriers or cover crate openings with a breathable cloth.

• Avoid Overexposure: Limit your dog’s interaction with visitors if they become overwhelmed. Ensure they can retreat to their calm space when needed.

5 - Stick to a Routine

• Consistency is Key: Dogs thrive on routine, so maintain their regular feeding, walking, and play schedules, even amidst the holiday chaos. Predictability can provide a sense of normalcy.

• Exercise: Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical activity to help burn off excess energy and reduce stress.

6 - Supervise Holiday Interactions

• Child and Guest Education: Teach visitors, especially children, to approach your dog calmly and respect their space. Make it clear that the designated calm area is off-limits to others.

• Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of stress, such as panting, pacing, or hiding, and intervene if your dog needs a break.

7 - Be Mindful of Holiday Hazards

• Secure Decorations: Keep potentially hazardous items like tinsel, ornaments, and candles out of reach.

• Avoid Dangerous Foods: Ensure your dog doesn’t have access to toxic holiday foods like chocolate, grapes, or fatty scraps.

• Supervise Gift Openings: Wrapping paper and small toys can be choking hazards for curious dogs.

  
  

8 - Plan for Fireworks and Loud Celebrations

• Prepare Ahead of Time: If your dog is afraid of fireworks, create their calm space well in advance. Use calming aids as needed.

• Distract with Toys: Provide long-lasting chews or puzzle toys to keep them occupied during loud events.

9 - Show Reassurance and Patience

• Stay Calm: Dogs pick up on their owners’ emotions, so remain calm and composed to help them feel at ease.

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with praise and treats when they use their calm space or display relaxed behavior.

Happy Holidays,

K9 KRAY