The holidays bring a lot of wonderful things. Time with family, festive food, full calendars, and a break from the usual routine. They also bring noise, visitors, schedule changes, and plenty of excitement. As humans with a full understanding of what’s going on, we can feel overwhelmed. Imagine being your dog!? Hello, confusion and overstimulation!

Even dogs who are typically not phased by guests can struggle during the holiday season. This does not mean your training has failed or that your dog is being difficult on purpose. It means their environment has changed and they need a little extra support.

The good news is that a few thoughtful adjustments can go a long way. Here are five practical ways to set your dog up for success and help everyone enjoy a calmer, more manageable holiday season.

1. Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible

While it may be unrealistic to keep your entire schedule the same during the holidays, maintaining a few predictable routines can make a big difference for your dog.

Dogs thrive on consistency. Regular mealtimes, walks, potty breaks, and rest periods help them understand what to expect, even when the rest of the day feels busy or unpredictable. If guests are coming over or your household is more active than usual, try to stick to familiar routines when and where you can.

For example, If you normally have a dog walker come by, don’t feel like you need to change the schedule just because you have an extra day off from work! Your dog will appreciate the consistency and exercise and you’ll get a chance to get a few things done!

A predictable routine gives your dog moments of normalcy in an otherwise busy environment and helps reduce stress before it turns into unwanted behavior.

2. Manage the Environment

One of the most common holiday mistakes is expecting dogs to handle the changes and excitement without support. Management is not a failure. It is a proactive and smart choice that will make your life much easier and your pup much happier!

If your dog struggles with guests, noise, or constant movement, consider setting up a quiet space away from the action. This could be a bedroom, crate, or gated area with comfortable bedding, enrichment toys, and familiar smells. Playing soft music or using a box fan as white noise can help reduce reaction to guest noises.

If your dog wants to be part of the party, using baby gates, pens, leashes, and/or closed doors can prevent rehearsing unwanted behaviors like jumping, barking, or counter surfing. Helping your dog make a good decision before they have a chance to make a “bad” one will get you far!

Putting dogs behind baby gates can help prevent unwanted behaviors, like jumping, before they happen.

3. Prepare for Guests Ahead of Time

Many challenging holiday moments happen at the front door. Excited greetings, door dashing, or anxious barking can quickly turn stressful.

Instead of addressing these behaviors in the moment, work on them ahead of time. Practice calm door routines when there is less pressure. Reinforce behaviors like sitting, going to a mat, or staying behind a barrier while the door opens.

If these are brand new skills you likely won’t make training progress to perfect them before the holiday. But don’t worry! During gatherings, use those management tools we mentioned earlier to keep your dog comfortable and preserve your sanity. Leashes, gates, and structured greetings help set clear expectations for your dog and your guests.

Preparation and practice can make a huge difference between chaos and an enjoyable experience.

4. Advocate for Your Dog

Not every dog enjoys hugs, attention from children, or constant interaction with unfamiliar people. Advocating for your dog is one of the most important things you can do during the holidays.

It is okay to ask guests not to pet your dog. It is okay to keep your dog separated during meals or high energy moments. It is also okay to say no to interactions that make your dog uncomfortable.

Advocacy protects your dog’s emotional well being and prevents situations that could lead to fear, stress, or defensive behavior. Clear boundaries help everyone feel safer, including your guests.

One of our favorite techniques is to give humans something else they can do besides reach out and pet the dog. For example, avoiding eye contact and tossing high value treats over a baby gate will give your guests something to do feel like they’re interacting with your pup, while your dog gets to watch from afar and build positive associations.

5. Reinforce Calm and Have a Backup Plan

Calm behavior is a skill that needs reinforcement, especially in stimulating environments. Take notice of quiet moments and reward them. If your dog chooses to lie down, disengage from chaos, or relax in their space, reinforce that choice generously.

At the same time, have a backup plan. The holidays are busy, and even the best plans do not always go perfectly. Long walks, enrichment activities, food puzzles, or professional support can help meet your dog’s needs when life feels extra full.

Having to pivot or needing support does not mean you have failed – far from it! It means you are being realistic and thoughtful about what your dog can handle.

Setting Everyone Up for a Better Holiday

A successful holiday with your dog does not require perfection. It requires awareness, preparation, and compassion. Small changes in routine, environment, and expectations can significantly reduce stress for both you and your dog.

If you would like additional support this season, our trainers at Where Sit Happens are here to help. Whether your dog needs one-on-one training for behavioral concerns or can benefit from our group class program to learn foundation behaviors and learn how to work around distractions, we have a program for everyone!

With the right tools and support, the holidays can be enjoyable for everyone, including your dog.