If you have a dog, chances are they get to celebrate the holiday too! I have always bought my dogs a few toys, treats and tried to involve them in some special activities. The days are short right now, the weather less than ideal for long walks, so involving them in Christmas events helps to provide some extra stimulation they are missing right now.
Take them to look at Christmas lights
If you’re doing a drive thru Christmas display or checking out some neighborhoods, take the dogs. Most dogs love to ride in the car and they will be extra excited to see things that might be new to them.
Walk through downtown
There are more people out right now so a stroll through downtown might be great for your dog. Make sure your friend is easily controlled on a leash and have some manners. It’s a good training exercise to be around strangers and controlled. Have a dog that might be too excitable for downtown? There are plenty of trails through the woods that offer a safer place to run off some energy.
Treat them to some special foods
Many foods are safe for dogs including cooked chicken, eggs, veggies, pumpkin, apple slices and plain yogurt. So think about creating a special dinner for them too. Just make sure you avoid fats, salt and xylitol artificial sweetener.
New toys always make them happy
My dogs love tearing the paper off their gifts almost as much as they love the toys. I always get the a variety of toys from some new yak cheese chews to a stuffed toy that will last maybe 15 minutes. They make a mess, but oh the fun they have!
Keep them busy while you’re trying to have people time
When I’m having people over, I always freeze peanut butter in a Kong. That way they have something to keep them busy that will last through your dinner. Just remember to use natural peanut butter and check the label to make sure it does not contain xylitol.
And if you’re leaving cookies out for Santa…. Keep them up high. My table bandits will find a way to get them. If they can see them, they will find a way!
Enjoy Christmas with your dogs and remember…. they want more time with you than almost anything. And that is easy and free!
