HAS YOUR DOG LOST HIS CHRISTMAS MOJO?

 

HAS YOUR DOG LOST HIS CHRISTMAS MOJO?

At this time of year, as a Behaviourist and Trainer I see some dogs who are just not feeling the love for Christmas.

Even this year, Christmas time will still be an occasion for fun and merriment for all the family, however, some dogs may feel out of sorts with such a big change to their usual routine during the festive period.

 If you want to make sure your dog is happy and safe this Christmas, read our guide.

 

Christmas trees

A Christmas tree presents many dogs with a big challenge.  Dogs experience their world through smells and space.  One of the biggest Christmas traditions involves bringing a tree into your home, which creates a whole new smell and a spiky obstacle to be navigated.  To some dogs, having a tree indoors this may be a dream come true!  Some four-legged friends will look at your tree and their eyes will light up at the thought of unlimited sticks to chomp and if you have a male dog, they may see it is as an excellent new spot to have a wee.

If you have a dog that just can’t resist, you’ll need a dog-proof Christmas tree or to keep yours well out of the way.

 

Fairy lights

The twinkling lights wrapped around your tree may look harmless, but some dogs think of the wires as shiny new chew toys – which is common with younger dogs or puppies.  If you have a particularly boisterous pup that likes to play, they may get tangled up in the wires.

 

Prevent your dog getting hurt by the Christmas tree lights by cable tying any lose wires and always disconnect from the mains when you go out. Alternatively, if you want to leave your lights on all the time, opt for battery operated ones instead and make sure that you place the battery pack in a place your dog can’t reach.

 

Baubles and hanging decorations

Dog-proof your Christmas trees by only buying safe decorations. Avoid tinsel and angel hair on the tree as when consumed, they can cause a blockage in your dog’s stomach. Glass baubles are also a bad idea if you have a boisterous dog, as they may shatter which could potentially harm your pet. Instead opt for non-toxic plastic decorations.

 

If you have more expensive ornaments which are essential decorations for your tree, place them near the top of the tree where your dog and their wagging tail can’t reach them. Don’t put edible decorations such as chocolates or candy canes on the tree as they are highly toxic to dogs and many won’t be able to resist.

If your dog just loves to play with your tree, you’ll probably need a solution to stop it from crashing down in the middle of your living room. The best way to do this is to either purchase a weighted base or attach weights to be bottom to keep it safely in place.

 

Where a Christmas tree surrounded by wrapped presents with bows on top may be a wondrous sight, it may prove too great a temptation for your dog.

 Keep presents out of sight until the day, then always make sure your dog is supervised with them – otherwise they may help themselves to a gift or two!

Never put your dog’s Christmas presents under the tree either, they definitely won’t be patient and wait until the day to sniff out any tasty treats.  Nor should you expect your dog to be able to show restraint.

 

Are Christmas trees poisonous to dogs?

Yes, some fir trees produce oils which are mildly toxic and if ingested could cause your dog to vomit or excessively drool. Additionally, the sharp tips of trees bring an extra cause of concern as there’s a risk that if ingested, the needles can cause internal damage. If you want to get a real Christmas tree, it’s best to opt for a non-drop variety because the loose needles can get stuck in your dog’s paws which can be very painful.

 

Christmas foods

Lots of Christmas foods are poisonous or toxic to dogs, including chocolates, grapes, sultanas and raisins (present in Christmas puddings and mince pies). A lot of dog owners think feeding them a bit of chicken or turkey is a nice gift, but these scraps can contain tiny bones which are dangerous – always check the meat thoroughly before feeding to your dog.

 

Festive flowers

Festive plants and flowers look stunning in our homes, but unfortunately a lot of these plants are toxic to dogs. Poinsettia which is used in many wreaths and arrangements can cause stomach and mouth irritation. Holly and European mistletoe berries are also toxic and can cause stomach upset. American mistletoe on the other hand is highly poisonous and ivy which is commonly used in wreaths can cause sickness and skin irritation like contact dermatitis.

 

Christmas crackers

Christmas crackers are a staple of festive get-togethers, but loud sounds can be very frightening for your dog. If you’re setting these off, it’s a good idea to put your dog in another room or the garden. Also, be wary of little items that fly out of your crackers, which can end up on the floor where your dog may eat them.

 

Visiting friends and family

Even this year friends and family may visit on the day itself and this can be quite overwhelming for your dog – particularly if they’re not used to it. Make sure you provide them with a space away from it all, put down blankets and provide them with food and water. That way if they feel stressed from all the merriment, they can go to their quiet space.  Be especially aware if your dog is not used to small children, and make sure that children know never to rush at a dog or to put their face into a dog’s personal space.  A dog that is stressed may react by growling or snapping when it has never reacted like this before.

 

All in all, try to stick to your dog’s usual routine, and give them time and space to enjoy the festive time in their own way.