Holidays can be stressful, and your dog may pick up on that too! New smells, tempting foods and strangers in the home may all lead to higher stress levels for your dog. Our training department put together some helpful tips to help you navigate the day. From all of us at Can Do Canines—dogs included—Happy Thanksgiving!
Toy or Decoration?
A dog most likely can’t tell the difference between toys and decorations. If ingested, decorations can cause blockages or damage to dogs. Keep them out of the dog’s reach and if necessary, block access to your decor.
Tire Out Your Dog Before the Big Event
Be sure to give the dog plenty of exercise and walks before the festivities begin. Exercise is a big stress reliever for them. This can include mental stimulation as well. A well-exercised dog is usually a well-behaved dog.
Some Quiet Time Away
Dogs may not enjoy the hustle and bustle as much as humans do. If the dog does not enjoy a house full of humans, kindly let them be kenneled in a quiet part of the house for some down time.
Beware of Counter Surfing
Guests are visiting and the meal is well underway, but is all of your food out of the dog’s reach? Keep trash cans and recyclables out of reach of the dog and/or covered. A great tip is to use the kennel to secure the dog during meal times if you are unable to watch them while all of the fun is underway.
Common holiday foods that can be toxic to dogs are:
- Avocado
- Bread Dough
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Grapes & Raisins
- Hops
- Macadamia Nuts
- Onions & Garlic
- Moldy food
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free foods and some kinds of peanut butter)
- BONES - Natural bones (especially turkey and chicken bones) are very dangerous to dogs. Make sure all bones are disposed of properly.