The holiday season in Raleigh brings joy, lights, and celebration, but it also introduces new risks for your dog. From festive foods and decorations to unfamiliar guests and routines, December can be a stressful and even dangerous time for pets.
As a professional trainer, I’ve seen many preventable accidents happen during the holidays. The good news is that with a little awareness, structure, and training, you can keep your dog happy and safe while enjoying every festive moment.
The Most Common Holiday Hazards
1. Toxic Foods
Some of our favorite treats are dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts can lead to serious illness.
Keep your dog away from:
- Chocolate, especially dark or baking chocolate
- Grapes, raisins, and currants
- Foods with onions or garlic
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods)
- Alcohol, rich sauces, and leftover turkey bones
Instead, offer dog-safe alternatives like plain pumpkin or cooked sweet potato without seasoning.
2. Dangerous Decorations
Holiday décor can be irresistible to curious dogs. Ornaments, candles, and lights pose multiple risks.
Watch for:
- Electrical cords that invite chewing
- Tinsel, garland, and ribbon that can cause blockages if swallowed
- Fragile ornaments that can shatter
- Snow globes containing toxic antifreeze
- Pine needles from real trees that irritate stomachs
Secure decorations and keep candles or breakable items out of reach.
3. Overwhelming Guests and Noise
Holiday gatherings can overstimulate your dog with constant activity and unfamiliar faces. Training calm behavior beforehand makes all the difference.
Our Basic Obedience Program teaches commands like place, sit, and stay to help your dog remain relaxed during parties and celebrations.
If your pup struggles with excitement or anxiety around visitors, our post on how to teach your dog to stay calm when guests visit provides techniques that work perfectly for the holiday season.
4. Routine Disruptions
Dogs thrive on consistency. When schedules shift for shopping, travel, or events, they can develop anxiety or regress in behavior. Maintaining daily walks, meal times, and training sessions keeps their confidence steady throughout the holidays.
Checklist: Holiday Safety for Dogs
- Keep toxic foods out of reach
- Secure Christmas trees and decorations
- Supervise dogs around candles and lights
- Maintain consistent feeding and exercise schedules
- Give dogs a quiet retreat space during gatherings
- Reinforce obedience commands daily
- Avoid giving leftovers or fatty foods
With these habits, you can enjoy the holidays knowing your dog is safe and relaxed.
External Resource: AKC’s Health Guide for Pet Owners
For additional safety tips, the AKC’s health benefits of dog ownership article reminds us that pets enhance our well-being, and in return, we owe them attentive care. Keeping your dog safe during the holidays is one of the best gifts you can give them.
FAQ: Dogs and Holiday Hazards
1. Can my dog eat a little turkey?
Yes, plain cooked turkey meat is fine, but avoid bones, skin, or seasoning.
2. What should I do if my dog eats chocolate or tinsel?
Call your vet immediately. Both can cause serious complications.
3. How can I stop my dog from jumping on guests?
Use a leash during greetings and redirect them to a sit or place command.
4. My dog gets anxious with decorations and noise. Any tips?
Desensitize gradually before the holidays by introducing decorations slowly and playing soft background music.
5. Should I stop training during the holidays?
No. Even short daily sessions help maintain calm, structured behavior when routines change.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Safely, Train Consistently
The holidays are meant for joy, not stress. By keeping your dog’s training sharp and environment safe, you can focus on making memories instead of managing chaos.
If you’d like help reinforcing obedience before the holiday rush, our team at Off Leash K9 Training Raleigh can help. Contact us today through our website to schedule your next session.
