Involve your dog in your Christmas day celebrations
Christmas is undoubtedly the most enchanting time of the year, woven with warmth, cherished memories, and heartfelt connections. So, who better to celebrate with than your loyal friend and much-loved companion?
Whether your Christmas Day unfolds quietly by a crackling fireplace, your dog by your side, or amongst the hustle and bustle of a big family filled with love, sharing those moments with your adored pet is something truly irreplaceable.
Experts in showing our dogs the love they deserve, we’ve lovingly curated our advice to help you and your dog celebrate the season, with festive joy considered at every step.
Start Christmas Day with a walk in nature
Before the festivities get underway, why not enjoy a few quiet moments together and embark on an early morning winter stroll?
Time spent together, rambling through crisp, frost-kissed leaves and wintry paths, with the nippy but charming chill of the season, is a blissful experience not to be missed.
The exercise will of course allow them to burn off some of that happy Christmas excitement and help make them more relaxed during the celebrations that are to come. But more importantly, it’s a great way to spend some time together in what is considered to be the most beautiful time of the year.
If you’re not so much of a morning person, why not gather your loved ones for a post-lunch family walk instead and create a new Christmas tradition?
This is also a wonderful chance to let them wear something seasonal such as this lovely snowflake quilted waterproof dog coat, creating picture-perfect moments all round.
Gift them their own Christmas stocking
For devoted dog owners, spoiling your furry best friend is a necessity, especially at Christmastime.
This year, why not gift your darling pup a special stocking of festive delights just for them? There are some wonderful, personalised stocking options such as this one from Ivy & Duke, which can be customised just for your dog.
Fill it with indulgent goodies such as this Kong Holiday Reindeer Shaker and Sidney Snuffle & Sneak Toy. And of course, no dog stocking is complete without our luxurious Ruffingtons treats – ideal for showing your dog just how much you love them. Our Canine Cupcakes and Dog Eclairs make for ideal fillers and are such a special treat for your beloved companion.
Or for something truly special, gift them one of our seasonal sets such as our Luxury Gift Hamper? They deserve it, after all.
When creating your dog’s stocking, remember to avoid anything not made specifically for them. And we would also recommend supervising closely to ensure they don’t accidentally nibble on any wrapping paper or ribbons.
Prepare a pet-friendly Christmas lunch to satisfy the senses
Family and friends may be tempted to offer your dog little tastes from their own plate, but many of the delicious foods we indulge in over the holidays can actually leave them feeling under the weather.
Instead, why not make a Christmas lunch just for them, with plain, skinless cooked turkey and add some simple cooked vegetables such as green beans, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes?
Naturally, dessert should be something delightfully decadent – such as our Marbled Dog Snaps or Terrier Truffles. As the saying goes, ‘qu’ils mangent de la brioche’, or ‘let them eat cake’ (well, a dog-friendly version).
And always remember to steer clear of toxic foods such as onions, leeks, chocolate, and anything seasoned with salt or garlic — and double check any meat for bones too as they can cause serious harm.
Create a quiet space, just for them
Christmas can sometimes be an overwhelming time for humans, and with all the commotion and new faces, there’s a chance it could all get a bit too much for your pets too.
So, as we head into the festive period, a great way to keep your dog feeling calm is by creating somewhere in your home where they can safely retreat to if they need a break from the festivities. In this, you can include a comfy, cosy bed, their favourite toy or teddy, and some calming music such as this playlist from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
You might also like to consider a water bowl to keep their them hydrated, and perhaps some toys such as this Christmas Peace in a Pod Plush or Mr Crumbles Gingerbread Tug Rope Squeaky Dog Toy to keep them entertained.
Have a wonderful, dog-inclusive Christmas
Taking these steps to ensure your beloved companion enjoys all the Christmas celebrations to come, is all about keeping them calm, comfortable and of course, well fed, during the family festivities. And with a sprinkle of planning, a dash of creativity, and lots of love, you can create heartwarming yuletide memories together that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Read more about pet care and bonding here.
