How to Prepare Your Dog for Visiting Family and Holiday Gatherings

The holidays are packed with food, fun, and family, and for many dogs, they’re also full of strange places, loud noises, new people, and tempting snacks that magically appear at nose level. Whether you’re traveling with your dog or hosting at home, a little prep goes a long way toward keeping things stress-free for everyone.

Here’s how to set your dog up for success this holiday season.

1. Brush Up on the Basics Before You Go

Holiday gatherings get busy fast. A little practice now makes everything easier later.

Focus on refreshing:

• Sit and Down (great for polite greetings)

• Place/Bed (helps your dog settle when guests arrive)

• Kennel/Crate Skills

• Leash Manners

• Leave It / Drop It

Even 5–10 minutes a day can make a huge difference. Practice these skills in slightly distracting environments so your dog learns to listen even when there’s a lot going on.

Need some help on the training? Contact us and we would love to help!

2. Pack a “Holiday Dog Kit”

Think of this as your dog’s travel survival pack. Include:

• Their regular food + a few favorite treats

• A sturdy chew (something long-lasting)

• A blanket or bed that smells like home

• A leash, collar, and ID tags

• Poop bags

• A portable water bowl

• Any meds or supplements

Having familiar items helps your dog settle faster in new environments.

3. Give Your Dog a Chance to Burn Energy

A tired dog makes better choices.

Before guests arrive, or before walking into someone else’s home, give your dog:

• A brisk walk

• Fetch or tug

• A short training session

• Sniff time in the yard or on a walk

• A fun puzzle

Mental and physical exercise lowers stress and excitement, making holiday manners much easier.

4. Have a Plan for Excited Greetings

If your dog LOVES people (maybe a little too much), holiday gatherings can turn into a jumping free-for-all.

Set your dog up to win:

• Keep them on leash for the first few minutes (or kennel if that is easier)

• Reinforce calm greetings

• Let guests know what you want (calm petting, no hyping up)

• Reward four paws on the floor

If your dog gets overwhelmed easily, it’s okay to give them space and introduce them to people one at a time.

5. Create a Safe Space for Breaks

Even friendly, social dogs can get overwhelmed.

Give your dog a designated quiet spot:

• A crate in a spare room

• Their bed in a low-traffic area

• A gated-off corner

Let guests, especially kids, know it’s a “no bother zone.” Dogs often need time to recharge between all the noise, activity, and excitement.

6. Protect the Food!

Holiday meals = a lot of things your dog shouldn’t eat.

Common trouble spots:

• Dropped food on the floor

• Relatives offering table scraps

• Food left unattended at dog height

Helpful strategies:

• Practice “leave it” ahead of time (Contact us if you are struggling with leave it)

• Set clear boundaries with well-meaning family members

• Use baby gates or a leash during food prep

• Keep trash secured (dogs love a holiday dumpster dive)

7. Talk About House Rules Beforehand

If you’re visiting family, ask a few quick questions:

• Are dogs allowed on furniture?

• Where should you potty your dog?

• Are there house pets your dog will be meeting?

• Are there areas your dog shouldn’t go?

Clarifying expectations helps everyone relax, and prevents awkward moments later.

8. Watch for Stress Signals

Even good dogs get overwhelmed.

Signs your dog needs a break:

• Excessive panting

• Pacing

• Yawning

• Lip licking

• Hiding

• Clinginess

• Growling or avoidance

Giving your dog a quiet room, short walk, or chew can help them reset before things escalate.

9. Give Your Dog Their Own “Holiday Job”

Dogs do better when they know what to do instead of what not to do.

Great holiday “jobs” include:

• Laying on their bed during dinner

• Carrying a toy during greetings (helps with jumping/mouthing)

• Going to their crate with a chew when things get chaotic

Predictability = calmer dog + calmer owner.

10. Remember: Your Dog Feeds Off Your Energy

Holiday stress is real. If you’re rushing, anxious, or overwhelmed, your dog will feel it.

Take a breath, give yourself (and your dog) grace, and plan breaks when needed. The goal is a holiday everyone enjoys, including your dog.

Want Help Getting Your Dog Holiday-Ready?

If you want personalized guidance, in-home help, or support with manners, calm greetings, place work, or travel prep, we’d love to help.

Our training focuses on creating happy, excited-to-learn dogs you can confidently bring anywhere.

Contact us and tell us know what you are struggling with!