Is the ringing of the doorbell from the Amazon driver going to push your dog over the edge?  Have you been brought in a tree to the middle of the living room and hung “DO NOT TOUCH” sparkly baubles from it?  Has the weather been frightful and the pup hasn’t had their daily dose of walking and sniffing?  The rush from Thanksgiving through New Years can leave your dog’s head spinning!  Any change to your normal routine can be very confusing for man’s best friend.  Dogs thrive on schedules.  Just ask any pet parent the week after daylight savings time!  Walk time, meal time, bed time, these are non-negotiable for your dog.  When their unique schedules get changed, it may cause undue stress.

stressed chihuahua

The Signs of Stress

  • Shivering or shaking
  • Pacing and circling
  • Drooling or panting
  • Excessive yawning
  • Chewing
  • Overly rambunctious
  • Whining
  • Hiding

Stressors

  • Get-togethers at home or away
  • Shiny “don’t-touch” presents under the tree
  • Pre-occupied pet parents
  • Break in exercise routine
  • Food schedule altered

stressed dog on the couch

Stress Busters

  • Run, walk, skip!  Get the zoomies out and burn some extra calories.  Always good for you and Fido! Cardio improves their mood and provides mental stimulation to keep the anxiety away.  Don’t forget your DIG water bottle!
  • Toys, toys and more toys.  There are great stimulation toys to keep your dog occupied and busy while you are crossing off your holiday to-do list. Here’s a great list of interactive toys!
  • Nothing better than an extra 20-30 minute of one-on-one couch time with your pup.  A soothing body massage will help relax their body and mind.  Never done a pet massage?  Learn how here!
  • Being predictable is what your dogs love best about you!  Try your best to maintain the same schedule for continuity.
  • If the holiday season has got YOU stressed out with your never-ending to-do list, consider asking a friend or even a professional to help you out.  Dog walker, pet-sitters or even a neighborhood teenager can help you out for play time with the pup.  Rover and Wag  can help you find a local!
  • Create a calm pet space in your home.  If you are having people over, sometimes letting your dog have their own private space to chill will make them comfortable.  Soft blankets, soothing music and maybe even a frozen peanut butter KONG dog toy for entertainment.
  • If you know your pet is the nervous Nelly type, organic CBD products have great results in calming your dog’s anxiety.  Always talk to your veterinarian before you add new products to your dog’s routine.