Puppy-Proof Your Holidays: Safe Home Tips for Your ‘Doodle

Decking the halls and preparing for festive gatherings is always exciting! But doing so with a puppy adds an extra layer of magic—and responsibility!

Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore, which means your festive decorations and holiday traditions might look like a playground! To keep your home safe and your puppy happy, here’s a short guide to puppy-proofing during the most wonderful (and potentially hazardous) time of the year.

1. Puppy-Proof Your Space

Think of your home from a puppy’s perspective. They’ll want to explore, chew, and play with anything they can reach. Holiday decor is beautiful, but it can also be dangerous for curious pups. Here’s how to puppy-proof your festive displays: 

• Christmas Trees: Secure your tree to prevent it from tipping over if your puppy jumps or pulls on it. Place fragile ornaments higher up and use shatterproof ones on lower branches.

• Lights and Cords: Keep electrical cords out of reach and use cord protectors. Puppies love to chew, and cords can pose a risk of shock or burns.

• Tinsel and Ribbons: Avoid using tinsel and ribbons, which can be tempting to play with but dangerous if ingested.

• Plants: Many popular holiday plants are harmful to dogs if ingested. A few to keep out of reach include Poinsettias, Mistletoe, Holly, and Amaryllis. Consider using artificial plants or placing real ones in higher spots inaccessible to your puppy. 
• Wrapping Paper: Giving gifts is a beloved holiday tradition, but it can also be a hazard for puppies. Keep gift wrap, ribbons, and bows away from your pup and dispose promptly after use. They can cause choking or digestive blockages if swallowed. Store scissors and tape safely out of reach.

 

2. Set Up a Safe Zone

The holidays can be noisy and busy, which might overwhelm and stress a young puppy. Creating a quiet space away from the husle and bustle will be a real benefit for your pup, as they’ll have a calm, quiet place they can go to when things get a little too much.

Use a crate, playpen, or a designated room with their bed, toys, and water. Even a few baby gates to restrict access to busy areas will do the trick.  And now would be a good time to teach family members to respect this area as the puppy’s retreat! 

A quiet space gives your dog a retreat and offers comfort and security when they feel overstimulated from all the activity.

• Xylitol, or other sugar-free desserts.

• Cooked bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries.

• Alcohol and caffeine, which are highly dangerous for dogs.

Keep food on high counters or in sealed containers, and remind guests not to share table scraps…nobody wants an emergency visit to the vet on Christmas.

 

4. Maintain a Routine

Puppies thrive on consistency. Especially during the holiday chaos, it’s even more important for their well-being and behavior. 

Stick to regular walk and playtime schedules, and feed your dog at the usual time every day. Consistency provides a sense of security and helps minimize stress for your dog.

 

5. Supervise and Train

Supervision is key during your puppy’s first holiday season. Use this time to teach them basic commands like “leave it” and “sit” to help prevent mischief. If you can’t supervise, keep them in their safe space to avoid accidents.

Did I mention that puppies love to chew?! Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys and other mentally stimulating games to keep them entertained and away from dangerous items.

 

6. Provide Puppy-Friendly Alternatives

If you want to include your dog in the holiday feasting, prepare some dog-safe treats such as plain cooked turkey, raw veggies like carrots or green beans, or homemade dog biscuits. Want some more treat ideas? We have a blog about that too! 

More Healthy Treats You Can Give Your Puppy. 

 

7. Introduce Guests Slowly

If you’re hosting holiday gatherings, introduce your puppy to new people gradually. Allow them to approach guests at their own pace, and remind visitors to avoid overwhelming the puppy with too much attention.

It’s always good to supervise interactions, especially with young children.

 

8. Capture the Moment

Your puppy’s first holiday season is a memory you’ll treasure forever. Snap photos, include them in family traditions, and make their experience as joyful as yours! 

Preparing your home for a puppy during the holidays might take a little extra effort, but the reward of having a happy, safe, and loved furry friend is well worth it!

With a little planning and some thoughtful adjustments, your home can be a safe haven for your puppy this holiday season. Happy holidays and happy puppy-proofing!