Some pets can get stressed during Christmas time (Image: lorenzo tombola via Getty Images)
Throughout the Christmas period, homes become hubs of wrapping paper, festive music, and cheerful guests. Yet, while you’re immersed in the festivities, what’s actually running through your dog’s head amid all the chaos?
Many pet owners turn to social media for advice on keeping their animals calm during Christmas, but expert guidance is essential.
Butternut Box Vet Nurse Lucy Howells explains that dogs are particularly attuned to shifts in routine, mood, and environment.
She’s identified the telltale signs that suggest your pet is feeling ‘stressed‘ during the Christmas season, as well as positive indicators showing your dog is happy and comfortable.
Make sure to check her advice below to keep the festive season safe and enjoyable for your furry companions.
Signs your dog is happy and comfortable at Christmas
- Relaxed body posture with loose movements
- Approaching family members for contact
- Showing interest in the activity without tension
- Calm breathing and steady tail movement
Warning signs your dog may be feeling stressed
Trembling or pacing: Lucy explains that when dogs feel anxious, they often demonstrate this through movement. “Pacing is a way for them to release tension or look for safety,” she says.
“Trembling signals heightened stress, especially when the home feels loud or unpredictable.”
Withdrawing from visitors: “If a dog repeatedly turns away from new people, moves to the edge of a room, or chooses a corner over interaction, they’re showing clear signs of social overload,” states Lucy. “Dogs protect themselves by creating distance when energy levels feel too high.”
Hiding behind furniture: The expert describes this as one of the most obvious signs a dog needs space. “Hiding helps dogs manage overwhelming sensory input,” she notes.
“It gives them control when the environment feels crowded.”
Lip licking or yawning outside a tired context: Lucy points out that repeated lip licking or unexpected yawns indicate mild anxiety. “They’re early, gentle ways dogs communicate that the situation feels intense or confusing,” she explains.
Practical tips for a dog-friendly Christmas
Keep noise and activity controlled: Where feasible, introduce visitors one at a time. Sudden loud greetings or packed entrances can stress some dogs.
Protect your food preparation areas: Christmas cooking involves rich, enticing aromas. Dogs frequently attempt to snatch food when owners are preoccupied.
Use gates or keep them in a familiar area during meal preparation to avoid mishaps.
Give your dog a quiet retreat: Always ensure a safe zone is accessible. A crate, bed, or peaceful room allows your dog to rest when they need respite from the commotion.
Maintain familiar patterns: Adhere to their usual walk and feeding schedules. This provides the day with a ‘stable foundation’, according to Lucy.
Simultaneously, she recommends monitoring any behaviours suggesting your dog feels uncertain or uneasy. “If they seem restless, avoid certain rooms, or cling more than usual, those are gentle signs they need a bit more reassurance and predictability throughout the day,” she says.
Expert’s final advice
According to Lucy, dogs are highly sensitive to shifts in energy, routine and surroundings, and Christmas introduces fresh scents, additional food on display, heightened noise levels and unfamiliar faces.
She explains: “Dogs sense this shift. They pick up on our stress, our excitement, and our rushed movements more than most owners realise.
“They recognise when the house feels busy. They notice when people greet them more, when treats appear more often, and when the routine feels different. For many dogs, this is positive, as long as the day stays structured and safe. The goal is to include them without overwhelming them!”.
The expert adds: “What I love about Christmas with dogs is the way families bring them into the celebration.
“Dogs sit under the table waiting for someone they love to notice them. They follow us around the house. They rest near the tree because they sense the home feels warm and lively.
“Christmas gives dogs more connection with their families. Extra attention, more interaction, and a relaxed day at home all support a dog’s wellbeing when approached safely.”
Lucy summarises: “The best gift for any dog is your presence. A winter walk, a slow cuddle at the end of the day, or a calm moment on the sofa means more to them than any toy. They value time with their favourite people more than anything.
“Always tailor Christmas activities to your dog’s personality. Some love groups and noise. Some prefer a quiet celebration with a few familiar faces. The most successful Christmas Days are shaped around what makes your dog feel secure, loved, and included.”