THIS holiday is going to be different. We are all going to remember to keep our pups entertained and managed so we can relax while we visit with family and friends. If you take your dog for a long walk and have something for him to do while you chat with your uncle Ned all evening, everyone will be happy.
Also, here are a few other pointers for those of you who still have puppies or young dogs:
Here are a few things you can do differently this year:
- GET A BABY GATE and install it. Put your pup behind the gate when guests arrive and you won’t have to appologize for any jumping… You can let bowser out to say hi AFTER he’s calmed down.
- LOAD UP ON FROZEN KONGS–they last longer. During dinner & arrivals, get a stuffed KONG out of the freezer and deliver it to said pooch. Be sure she is hungry so you can keep the KONGs and food toys coming her way!
- GET YOUR DOG A TOY, and wrap it. Practice “leave-it” once a day, from now until Christmas but then put the present away until Christmas morning.
- ATTACH A TETHER to a heavy couch or dresser and tether pooch when ever you want to relax. That way your hound can be near you, but still under control. Use food toys liberally.
- TEACH BOUNDARIES and use them. Teach your pup that there is an invisible line around the Christmas tree and the front entry. You do this by having him drag a leash and reward him for staying out of those areas. Do NOT let him cross that line! If he does, verbally tell him “uh-oh” and bring him back.
- HOLIDAYS AND GUESTS can be stressful for some dogs or cats. Consider using some calming herbs or flower essences to stave off anxiety.