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Writer's pictureBelinda N. Ahern

OH BEHAVE!

Christmas excitement and overwhelm exists for you & your dog.


Here are some tips to help you proactively navigate the stressors this holiday season.

 

When decorating for Christmas it is easy to overlook the fact that our dogs get curious about anything new in their environment. The tree lights, decorations, and moving furniture disrupts their flow.  Dogs can get overstimulated with all the holiday activities. We love their curiosity but need to let them know what to do in these times of change.

 

We love to teach cues such as "Leave it", "Stay" or Go to your Mat("place")

These basic cues should be taught prior to the season so they know what is being asked. If we haven't taught them then they aren't going to be able to learn amidst all the commotion. It is less optimal to teach while in the middle of trying to accomplish another task. If you are stressed or highly on to another task save the training for later.

 

Here are a few simple exercises to implement before guests arrive:


MAT - PLACE

Start with a mat or a dog bed and reward your dog for going to their mat on command during quiet times. You can gradually introduce the excitement of walking around, leaving the room or someone else coming in. Try using treats, praise, or even a favorite toy to reward calm behavior. You can work up to the doorbell or the arrival of family or friends.

 

SETTLE

Teaching your dog to settle down and relax in a designated spot is great in so many instances.

Begin by just noticing when your dog is calm in their designated relaxation area (like a crate or a bed), reward them with gentle praise or a treat.

Reinforcing calmness can turn down their hype and encourage the wind down.

 

LEAVE IT

Food is everywhere and tempting for dogs. Avoiding temptations is simple when we teach a pup to leave it. We can randomly reinforce the “leave it” cue by putting down your dog's bowl and making them sit and wait until you signal it’s okay. You can reward your dog when they begin to ignore the food by releasing them and allowing them to eat. You can do this with treats and toys so that they generalize the leave it to anything. The more challenging you make it the easier it will be for your dog to understand that they cannot have something in times of danger.

 

PREVENTION & PREPARATION

· Dogs thrive on consistency, even during the holiday season. Try to keep feeding, walks, and training times regular.

· Reward your dog for settling into their usual routine and remain calm when things get busy.

· Avoid Overwhelming Your Dog, look for signs that your dog has had enough.

· If your dog is sensitive to loud noises or gets anxious, create a quiet, cozy space for them to retreat to.

· Reward them for choosing to stay in their safe spot.

· Make sure they have a quiet, comfortable space to retreat to when they need a break. Just like some of us, we need to be allowed to rest and recharge to behave calmly and appropriately.

· With family and friends visiting, your dog may get overly excited when guests arrive.

· Teach calm greetings. Reward your dog when they stay calm and sit when people enter.

· Teach them to greet guests with a “sit” rather than jumping and reward them with attention when they do so.

 By applying these positive reinforcement techniques, you’ll help your dog have a fun, safe, and enjoyable holiday season while strengthening your bond and ensuring good behavior!

 

NEED HELP?

 

The Best Christmas for You and Your Pup!

 

This Christmas, create memories that will last a lifetime with a well-trained dog by your side!

 

This holiday season give the gift of stress-free gatherings while enjoying a stronger, happier pup bond.

 

🎁 Holiday Special! Sign up for a Christmas Training Package or a Private in-home consultation with a FREE follow up zoom session!

 

Great for teaching greetings, walking politely on a leash, or any festive goal that needs tending to.

 

Seasoned dog owners & a new pet parents can get a happier, harmonious pup with good manners, tricks & the essentials for interactions!

 

Book your training today

and give the gift of

LOVE, JOY, PEACE, AND MANNERS!




visit bnadog.com or call us at 860-304-1447

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