Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and fun, but for dogs, it can be an overwhelming whirlwind of unfamiliar faces, loud noises, and tempting smells. As much as we love to include our furry family members in the holiday celebrations, the excitement can lead to stress or overexcitement for them.
With a bit of preparation and a few thoughtful strategies, you can ensure your dog stays calm and happy while you enjoy the festivities.
6 tips for keeping your dog calm on Thanksgiving
Stick to Their Routine
Dogs thrive on consistency, and keeping their day as predictable as possible can help reduce stress. Try to maintain their usual schedule for meals, potty breaks, and downtime, even if your holiday plans are busy. A sense of normalcy will help your dog feel secure amid the hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving. If their routine needs to shift slightly due to holiday plans, try to make small adjustments now, such as feeding them a little earlier or later, to help them adapt more smoothly on Thanksgiving Day.
Tire Your Dog Out with Exercise
In addition to sticking to their routine, providing extra physical activity earlier in the day can set your dog up for success. A long walk, a fun game of fetch, or a few rounds of tug-of-war can help tire them out before guests arrive. Exercise not only burns off excess energy but also promotes relaxation, making your dog less likely to become overexcited or anxious when your home gets busy. Pairing this with mental stimulation, like puzzle toys or basic training games, can further ensure they’re calm and content for the rest of the day.
Create a Safe Space
One of the best things you can do for your dog on Thanksgiving is to provide a designated safe space where they can retreat if things get too chaotic. Choose a quiet room or area in your home, away from the noise and traffic of guests. Set it up with their bed or crate, favorite toys, and maybe even some calming music or white noise to help them relax. Let guests know this space is off-limits to ensure your dog has a peaceful place to unwind.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to reinforce calm behavior. Keep some high-value treats handy, and reward your dog for staying relaxed while guests arrive or while they behave well around the dinner table. If your dog tends to jump on visitors, teach them an alternative behavior like sitting or lying down. Guests can also be part of the training by offering treats for calm greetings.
Offer a Special Treat
Instead of calming aids, give your dog a special treat that’s safe and engaging. A frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter, pumpkin, or their favorite snack can keep them busy while guests come and go. This treat can also be offered in their safe space, giving them an enjoyable activity that reduces stress and keeps them happily occupied.
Prep treats the night before, while preparing your food, and let your pup enjoy the best part of the holiday, licking the spoon or tasting what's inside of the mixing bowl (with pet-safe ingredients, of course)!
Manage Guest Interactions
Not all guests understand dog behavior, so it’s important to set boundaries. Let visitors know how to interact with your dog, and encourage them to give your dog space if they seem nervous. If your dog doesn’t do well with crowds, consider letting them stay in their safe space with their special treat rather than forcing them to mingle.
By planning ahead and considering your dog’s comfort, you can help them feel secure and calm on Thanksgiving Day. With a relaxed pup, you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday festivities, knowing they’re happy and stress-free. After all, Thanksgiving is about making memories—and your four-legged friend deserves to be part of the joy!