Home / Blog / Holiday Season with Your Dog: Safe Celebrations & Calm Planning

Dec 8, 2025

Holiday Season with Your Dog: Safe Celebrations & Calm Planning

Introduction

The holidays are magical. Lights, gatherings, special food, and excitement fill every corner of your home. But for your dog, all this change can be overwhelming, stressful, or even dangerous.

You want to include your furry friend in holiday celebrations. You're shopping for gifts, planning menus, and inviting family over. But worry creeps in: Is this food safe for my dog? Why is she so anxious around all these people? Are the decorations toxic? Will he get enough exercise?

Here's the good news: all of these challenges are preventable. With thoughtful planning and no rush, you can keep your dog safe, healthy, and happy during the holidays. That's the YMOAs philosophy: make decisions that work for your whole family, including the four-legged members.

This guide explores five major holiday challenges for dogs and the practical solutions to address them:

Food Safety – What's toxic, what's safe, how to protect your dog
Anxiety & Stress – Managing schedule disruptions and new people
Holiday Hazards – Decorations, plants, and safety risks
Routine & Activity – Maintaining exercise and mental stimulation
Health Monitoring – Watching for stress-related issues

Each challenge has real, actionable solutions you can implement today.

Why Holidays Are Different for Dogs

"Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. The holiday season disrupts both. Increased household activity, schedule changes, new people, and unfamiliar foods create stress that manifests in anxiety, behavior changes, and even health issues. Understanding these challenges is the first step to a calm holiday season."

For most of the year, your dog knows what to expect: feeding times, walk schedules, quiet evenings, and the same familiar people. The holidays shatter this predictability. Relatives visit. Decorations appear overnight. The kitchen fills with smells your dog has never encountered. Noise levels increase. The routine your dog depends on becomes fragmented.

This disruption affects dogs differently depending on their age, temperament, and health. But every dog feels it. Your calm, predictable household suddenly becomes a place of uncertainty, and dogs don't handle uncertainty well.

The five challenges we'll explore aren't separate problems. They're interconnected. A stressed, anxious dog is more likely to eat something toxic. A dog with reduced activity becomes more anxious. A dog with arthritis struggles more in cold, stressful conditions. Understanding this helps you create a complete plan, not just isolated fixes.

Challenge 1: Holiday Food Safety – What's Safe, What's Toxic

"The holiday kitchen is dangerous for dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine, a toxin that affects the heart and nervous system. Grapes and raisins cause kidney failure. Xylitol (found in sugar-free products) causes severe hypoglycemia. Fatty foods trigger pancreatitis. Even small amounts can require emergency vet visits. This is not exaggeration. It's veterinary reality."

The holidays mean more food than usual, and much of it is toxic to dogs. Your well-meaning guests will want to share their plate. Your kids might sneak treats under the table. Your dog's nose will be drawn to smells she's never encountered. Managing food safety is your most critical task.

Toxic Foods – Never Give Your Dog These

Chocolate (all types, dark is worst)

Contains theobromine, which dogs can't metabolize
Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, heart problems
Even small amounts of dark chocolate are dangerous

Grapes & Raisins

Cause kidney failure in dogs
No one knows why they're toxic, just that they are
Even a handful can trigger serious problems
Symptoms appear within 24 hours: vomiting, lethargy, kidney damage

Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

Found in sugar-free baked goods, candy, peanut butter
Causes rapid insulin release and severe hypoglycemia
Can lead to liver failure
Symptoms: weakness, collapse, seizures (immediate, often fatal)

Fatty Foods (turkey skin, prime rib, gravy, butter)

Trigger acute pancreatitis
Painful and potentially life-threatening
Symptoms: vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy

Alcohol (wine, beer, spirits, even small amounts)

Affects dogs much faster than humans
Can cause intoxication, respiratory depression, coma
Keep all drinks out of reach

Other Toxic Foods:

Macadamia nuts (cause weakness, tremors, hyperthermia)
Onions & garlic (damage red blood cells)
Avocado (persin toxin)
Mushrooms (some varieties are deadly)

Safe Foods – You Can Share These

Plain Turkey (unseasoned, no skin, boneless)

Safe in small amounts
Remove all bones, skin, and seasoning
Good protein source

Sweet Potato

Great nutrition, high in fiber
Cooked or raw, plain only
Can be frozen as a treat

Carrots

Low calorie, good for teeth
Raw or cooked
Safe to give freely

Apples (without seeds)

Remove all seeds (contain cyanide)
Slice and serve plain
Good fiber

Pumpkin (unsweetened)

Great for digestion
Pure pumpkin only, not pie filling
Can help with constipation or diarrhea

Green Beans

Plain, steamed or raw
Low calorie, safe snack
Many dogs enjoy them

Plain Rice

Good for upset stomachs
Cooked with no seasoning
Can be mixed with regular food

Management Strategies: How to Actually Keep Your Dog Safe

Strategy 1: Create a Food-Free Zone

During holiday meals when toxic foods are being served, keep your dog in a separate room with a closed door. This isn't punishment. It's protection. Your dog can't accidentally eat something dangerous if she's not in the room. Set her up with:

A comfortable bed or crate
Her regular meal (served at the same time your family eats)
Water
A puzzle toy for distraction

Strategy 2: Brief Your Guests

Family and friends mean well, but they don't know what's safe. Create a simple written list of toxic foods and post it on the fridge. Or tell people directly: "Please don't feed the dog human food. She has a sensitive stomach." Most people will respect this boundary, especially when you explain it's for her health.

Strategy 3: Secure Your Trash

Put all food scraps in a trash can your dog can't access. Wrap toxic foods in sealed bags inside the can. Use a can with a locking mechanism if possible. More dogs end up in emergency clinics eating holiday garbage than any other single cause. Trash is the number one danger in your home.

Strategy 4: Know What to Do If Ingestion Happens

If your dog eats something toxic:

Don't panic – panic helps no one
Call your vet or poison control immediately
Have this number ready:
- Netherlands: Dutch Animal Poison Control
  Local: (030) 2748888 | International: +31-30-2748888
  
  Belgium: Belgian Antipoison Centre
  Local: (070) 245 245 | International: +32-70-245-245
Be prepared to tell them:
- What was eaten
- When it was eaten
- How much
- Your dog's weight

They can tell you if it's an emergency. Some things need immediate treatment; others are fine in small quantities.

Challenge 2: Holiday Anxiety – Managing Stress During Celebrations

"Holiday stress affects dogs the same way it affects people: disrupted sleep, elevated cortisol levels, changes in appetite, and behavioral shifts. Dogs with anxiety disorders or noise sensitivity are especially vulnerable during the holiday season. The disruption to their world is real, and their anxiety is valid."

The holidays trigger anxiety in many dogs. Some show obvious signs. Others withdraw quietly. Either way, your dog is stressed, and you can help.

If your dog has [separation anxiety], the holiday season can be especially challenging. Either way, your dog is stressed, and you can help.

Recognize Stress in Your Dog

Behavioral Signs:

Excessive panting or drooling
Pacing or restlessness
Excessive barking or whining
Destructive behavior (chewing, scratching)
Hiding or withdrawal
Loss of appetite
Excessive licking or grooming
Aggression toward family or other pets

Physical Signs:

Trembling or shaking
Dilated pupils
Raised hackles (hair standing up)
Tail tucked between legs

When Stress Often Occurs:

During large gatherings or parties
When doorbells ring or strangers arrive
During loud noise (fireworks, music)
When normal schedule changes dramatically
At night (disrupted sleep patterns)

Management Strategies: Reducing Holiday Stress

Strategy 1: Maintain Routine (Most Important)

This is the single most powerful thing you can do. Keep feeding times, walk times, and bedtimes consistent, even during holidays. Your dog's routine is an anchor in a sea of chaos.

Same feeding time: Feed at the exact same time every day
Same walk schedule: Walk before guests arrive and after they leave
Same bedtime: Consistent sleep schedule helps regulate stress hormones
Quiet time blocks: Even one hour daily of quiet time helps

When everything else is changing, one consistent routine gives your dog something to depend on.

Strategy 2: Create a Safe Space

Designate a quiet room where your dog can retreat when overwhelmed. Stock it with:

Comfortable bedding or blankets
Familiar toys
Fresh water
Access to a bathroom or pee pad (if needed)
A closed door for sound dampening

Tell guests: "This room is the dog's safe space. Please don't open the door or call her out." Most guests will respect this if you explain it's for her wellbeing.

Strategy 3: Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Exercise burns stress and anxiety. Even if it's cold outside, a good walk before guests arrive helps significantly. Indoor play also works:

Hide and seek with treats
Puzzle toys
Training sessions (short 10-minute sessions)
Tug of war
Indoor fetch

A mentally stimulated, physically tired dog is a calm dog.

Strategy 4: Calming Tools & Support

White noise or dog-specific music: Masks party sounds and creates a familiar environment
Puzzle toys: Mental distraction helps with anxiety
Long-lasting chews: Kong, bully stick (keeps them occupied)
Professional help: Consider a trainer or behaviorist if anxiety is severe
Medication: Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication (not a long-term solution, but can help during high-stress periods)

Challenge 3: Holiday Hazards – Decorations, Plants & Safety

"The average holiday home contains dozens of hazards for dogs: tinsel causes intestinal blockages requiring surgery; mistletoe is genuinely toxic; ornament hooks are choking risks; Christmas tree water contains preservatives. A prepared owner prevents emergencies. An unprepared home means holiday trips to the emergency vet."

Your home suddenly transforms into a place full of dangers. Most are easily prevented once you know what to watch for.

Main Hazards & Solutions

Tinsel & Garland – Major Danger

Tinsel is beautiful but highly dangerous. If your dog eats it, the tinsel can wrap around the intestines and cause a blockage. This requires emergency surgery.

Don't use tinsel if you have dogs (seriously, skip it)
Use alternative garland (ribbons that are tied securely, fabric strips)
Keep artificial garland tied tightly to prevent access
If you already have tinsel, keep it completely out of reach

Christmas Tree – Multiple Hazards

Your tree presents several dangers:

Tree water contains fertilizers and preservatives (toxic if drunk)
Pine needles can cause GI upset or blockage if swallowed
Tree can tip if a dog pulls it or jumps on it
Lights can cause electrocution

Safety tips:

Secure your tree to the wall with fishing line or a tree stand weighted at the base
Prevent all access to tree water (use a tree skirt that covers the water bowl)
Use LED lights instead of incandescent (safer, less heat)
Keep electrical cords behind furniture or protected with cord covers
Check lights for damage before use

Toxic Plants – Know Which Are Dangerous

Mistletoe (truly toxic, even small amounts)
Poinsettia (irritating to mouth and stomach, causes vomiting but rarely fatal)
Holly (berries are toxic)
Christmas cactus (actually safe)
Amaryllis (toxic)
Narcissus/Daffodil (toxic)

Know which plants are in your home and keep them completely out of reach. If your dog eats a toxic plant, call your vet or poison control.

Ornaments & Decorations

Glass ornaments break and cut
Plastic ornaments can be chewed and swallowed
Ornament hooks are choking hazards
Lights should be checked for damage and kept out of chewing range

Use plastic ornaments instead of glass. Secure ornament hooks so they can't be pulled off. Keep fragile decorations high and out of reach.

Candles & Scents

Open flames are fire hazards, especially with an excited dog running around. Scented candles and essential oil diffusers can be toxic.

Use battery-operated candles instead of real flames
Avoid essential oil diffusers (many oils are toxic to dogs)
If you use diffusers, choose dog-safe options
Keep all scented products out of reach

Pre-Holiday Safety Checklist

Before you decorate, go through this checklist:

Secure or completely skip tinsel
Tie garland securely or skip it
Secure Christmas tree (wall and weighted base)
Move toxic plants out of reach
Use LED lights (safer than incandescent)
Prevent all access to tree water
Use pet-safe candles (battery-operated)
Secure ornament hooks
Keep electrical cords protected
Remove breakable decorations from dog-height areas

Challenge 4: Maintaining Activity & Routine – Fighting Holiday Boredom

Cold weather plus holiday busyness equals reduced outdoor activity. Your dog gets less exercise, becomes bored, and stress increases. Boredom is a major cause of behavior problems during holidays. Dogs with reduced activity gain weight, develop anxiety, and engage in destructive behavior.

The Solution: Maintain Exercise & Stimulation

Daily Walking Schedule

Even if it's cold, maintain your regular walk schedule. A 30-minute walk does wonders for stress and boredom. Cold weather isn't an excuse to skip walks. Just adjust with a dog coat if needed. A tired dog is a well-behaved, calm dog.

Indoor Exercise Games

Hide and seek: Hide treats around the house and let your dog find them
Indoor fetch: Down a hallway or in a large room
Tug of war: Use a durable toy like our NOMI Quirky Tug Dog Toy for good bonding and physical activity
Stairs: Running up and down stairs (if you have them) burns energy fast
Chase games: Structured play where you chase and they chase back

Mental Stimulation

Puzzle toys: Kong, puzzle feeders, snuffle mats
Sniff games: Hide treats in cardboard boxes, blankets, or under cups
Training sessions: Short 10-minute sessions learning new tricks
Nosework: Encourage sniffing. It's mentally tiring
Interactive toys: Toys that dispense treats as they play

Structured Play Time

Set aside 15 to 30 minutes daily for interactive play with your dog. This gives your dog something to look forward to and burns significant energy. Play together, not just near each other.

Quick Reference: Minimum daily activity = 30 minutes walk plus 15 to 30 minutes active play or mental stimulation. Adjust based on your dog's age and energy level.

Challenge 5: Health Monitoring – Watch for Holiday-Related Issues

If your dog has pre-existing health conditions, holiday stress can exacerbate them. Common issues include arthritis flare-ups, increased UTI symptoms, kidney problems, and anxiety disorders becoming more severe.

If Your Dog Has a Condition

Arthritis:

Cold weather makes pain worse
Reduced activity increases stiffness upon movement
Maintain gentle exercise (short, frequent walks better than long ones)
Keep your dog warm (dog coat, bed near heating)
Consider supplements or medication (ask your vet beforehand)

Kidney Disease:

Stress can increase thirst and urination (monitor)
Holiday diet changes can worsen symptoms
Keep regular vet schedule, don't change diet during holidays
Ensure consistent water access

Anxiety Disorders:

Holiday stress triggers episodes in susceptible dogs
Work with your vet on management plan beforehand
Medication might be appropriate (anti-anxiety medication)
Consider a professional trainer or veterinary behaviorist

Digestive Issues:

Stress triggers diarrhea or vomiting in many dogs
Don't let guests feed table food (enforce strictly)
Maintain regular diet consistency
Monitor for changes; call vet if diarrhea persists beyond 1 to 2 times

When to Call Your Vet – Warning Signs

Call immediately if you notice:

Excessive vomiting or diarrhea (more than 2 to 3 times)
Not eating for more than 12 hours
Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness
Difficulty breathing or excessive panting (beyond normal)
Signs of pain or severe limping
Inability to urinate or defecate
Seizures or loss of consciousness

Pre-Holiday Vet Check

Before the holidays begin:

Schedule a wellness check-up
Discuss any concerns with your vet
Ensure all medications are refilled
Get your vet's holiday contact info and emergency vet location
Ask your vet for personalized advice for your dog's specific health needs

Your vet can provide guidance tailored to your dog's age, health status, and specific risks.

Your Holiday Dog Care Action Plan

You now understand the five main challenges. Here's how to create your personal holiday plan:

Two-Week Countdown (Now through Dec 15)

Schedule vet check-up
Get medications refilled
Plan your dog's safe space location
Order puzzle toys or calming products if needed
Tell family and guests about food restrictions
Test your emergency vet contact information
Review toxic foods list and post on fridge
Plan your dog's exercise schedule

One Week Before (Dec 15-22)

Finalize decorations (secure tree, remove tinsel, etc.)
Practice the routine you'll maintain during holidays
Review toxic foods list with your family
Prep your dog's safe space (bed, toys, food, water)
Establish exercise schedule with specific times
Brief guests about food rules
Check all lights and cords for safety

During Holidays (Dec 23-Jan 1)

Maintain routine (feeding time, walks, bedtime)
Daily exercise (no matter the weather)
Monitor stress signs hourly during parties
Keep guests informed and enforce food boundaries
Watch for health changes or concerning behaviors
Provide quiet time and safe space access
Enjoy celebrations (calmly)

After Holidays (Jan 2+)

Return to normal routine gradually
Monitor for prolonged stress symptoms
Schedule follow-up vet visit if needed
Clean up decorations safely
Celebrate successfully getting through the holidays

Remember the philosophy: You don't need to rush or stress during the holidays. The holidays aren't about filling your calendar with activities. They're about thoughtful time with people and pets you love. Make decisions that keep everyone calm. That's what Calm Days is all about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: My dog has separation anxiety. How do I manage during holidays?

"Separation anxiety is triggered by your absence, and holidays often mean schedule changes and different alone times. Maintain your regular routine as much as possible. Create a safe space with toys and white noise. Don't make a big fuss when leaving or returning home. Act casual. Consider working with a professional trainer or behaviorist before the holidays if anxiety is severe."

Sources: ASPCA Anxiety Guidelines, VCA Animal Hospitals

Q: Can my dog eat turkey at Christmas dinner?

"Plain, unseasoned turkey meat is safe for dogs in small amounts. However, avoid turkey skin (too fatty, causes pancreatitis), bones (choking hazard and splinter risk), and any seasoning or gravy. The safest option is to give your dog her regular meal and skip the table scraps entirely, even if she begs. Your dog doesn't need human food to have a happy holiday."

Sources: ASPCA Pet Food Safety, Cornell Veterinary Health Center

Q: Is my Christmas tree safe for my dog?

Christmas trees themselves aren't toxic, but they present several hazards. Tree water contains preservatives and fertilizers that are toxic if ingested. Pine needles can cause gastrointestinal upset or blockage. Decorations can be choking hazards. The tree can tip if pulled. Solution: Secure your tree to the wall with fishing line, prevent all access to tree water with a tree skirt, use LED lights, and keep ornaments and decorations out of reach.

Q: My dog is shaking and hiding during parties. What should I do?

These are clear signs of anxiety and fear. Create a safe quiet space and let your dog retreat without any fuss. Don't force interaction or try to "socialize" during a party. Your dog needs safety, not exposure. If the anxiety is severe, talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication for the event. Some dogs genuinely can't handle large gatherings, and that's okay. Work with a professional trainer or behaviorist for long-term anxiety management.

Q: How much exercise does my dog need in winter?

At minimum, 30 minutes of daily walking plus 15 to 30 minutes of active play or mental stimulation. Cold weather shouldn't eliminate exercise. Adjust for your dog's age and health status. Puppies and young dogs may need more; senior dogs may need shorter, more frequent walks. Exercise is essential for stress management during the holidays.

Q: What if my dog eats something toxic?

Call your vet or poison control immediately. Don't wait to see if symptoms develop.

Netherlands: Dutch Animal Poison Control
Local: (030) 2748888 | International: +31-30-2748888

Belgium: Belgian Antipoison Centre
Local: (070) 245 245 | International: +32-70-245-245

Have ready:

What was eaten
When it was eaten
How much
Your dog's weight

Different toxins require different responses. Some need immediate emergency treatment; others require observation. Let the professionals guide you.

Q: What kind of Christmas gifts should I get for my dog?

Choose gifts that are safe and appropriate for your dog's size and chewing style. Avoid toys with small parts, bells, or squeakers that can be choking hazards. Avoid rawhide (choking risk). Good options include puzzle toys, long-lasting chews like bully sticks, durable balls, ropes, and quality chew toys like our NOMI Hexa Bone Chew Toy. Make sure any treat is safe and appropriate for your dog's digestive system. The best gifts are ones that keep your dog mentally and physically engaged.

Sources & Expertise

This guide is based on information from recognized veterinary authorities:

Cornell Veterinary Health Center

Institution: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Authority: 50+ years of peer-reviewed pet health research
Referenced for: Food toxicity, health conditions, stress effects on dogs
Why we trust them: Academic institution with rigorous research standards
Website: www.vet.cornell.edu

ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)

Authority: 150+ years of animal welfare expertise
Referenced for: Toxic substances database, pet safety guidelines, holiday hazards
Why we trust them: Evidence-based guidelines and safety recommendations
Website: www.aspca.org

VCA Animal Hospitals

Authority: Network of veterinary specialists across North America
Referenced for: Clinical recommendations, health management, behavioral guidance
Why we trust them: Veterinarian-written content, peer-reviewed medical information
Website: www.vcahospitals.com

All medical recommendations in this guide are cross-referenced against these authoritative sources.

Author & Fact-Checking: This guide was created by the YMOAs team, bringing together practical pet care advice with veterinary authority. We update our guides seasonally to reflect current best practices.

Published: December 6, 2025 Last Updated: December 6, 2025

A Calm Holiday Starts with Planning

The holidays don't have to be stressful for your dog. With thoughtful planning and these five key strategies, you can create a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season for your entire family. Furry members included.

Remember:

Food safety is non-negotiable. Keep toxic foods away
Anxiety is real. Maintain routine and create a safe space
Hazards are preventable. Secure decorations and remove toxic plants
Exercise matters. Cold weather doesn't eliminate walks
Health monitoring is important. Watch for stress signs

Coming Up

This is just the beginning. We have more detailed guides coming in the next few weeks:

Pet-Safe Holiday Treats & Recipes: Learn to make homemade holiday treats your dog will love, safely
Holiday Anxiety Management: Expert Strategies: Detailed guides for managing anxiety during parties
Creating a Pet-Safe Holiday Home: Complete room-by-room safety checklist
Winter Indoor Exercise & Enrichment: Keep your dog active and happy all winter long

Final Thought

This holiday season, keep things calm. Make thoughtful decisions. Include your dog in celebrations in ways that are safe and stress-free. Your dog doesn't need fancy decorations or special treats to be happy. She just needs the routine, exercise, and love you already provide.

Make this a holiday where everyone, including your dog, can relax and enjoy.

Happy holidays from YMOAs. 🎄🐕