Christmas with your dog: traditions, gifts and treats

Your dog is part of the family, so why not include them in your traditions? Celebrating Christmas with your dog creates great memories: a photo by the tree, a walk under the lights, a present to unwrap. Here are simple ideas to share the holiday magic with your companion while respecting their pace.

Creating Christmas traditions with your dog

Dogs love rituals. A small tradition that comes back every year quickly becomes something to look forward to.

• The yearly photo: a holiday bandana, the same spot by the tree, and you'll see your dog change from year to year. Keep the session short and reward their patience.
• A doggy Advent calendar: each day, a small reward hidden in a puzzle toy or under a cup. Use tiny portions, or some of their kibble, so you don't overload their daily ration.
• A stocking with their name: hang it out of reach until the big morning.
• Family movie night: a blanket, a suitable chew, and everyone in the living room.

The holiday lights walk

On a quiet evening, take your dog to see the neighbourhood decorations. New smells and sights spark their curiosity, and it's a lovely moment together.

• Pick a calm time, without crowds or fireworks.
• Make them visible with a light-up collar or reflective harness.
• Watch out for inflatable or moving decorations: some dogs find them worrying. Let them observe from a distance.
• Think of their paws: on salted sidewalks, protect them and rinse them once home. See our guide to protecting your dog's paws in winter.

What to give your dog for Christmas

The best gift is often time with you. But a little package to tear open always goes over well.

• A puzzle toy: a fillable toy or brain game, perfect for winter evenings.
• A cozy blanket for naps near the tree.
• A new leash or reflective harness for walks after dark.
• Special treats: our grain-free heart biscuits, in maple and bacon or peanut butter and honey, fit nicely in a stocking. Made in Canada with ingredients from Canadian suppliers.

Have friends with a dog? The Anivéra gift card lets them choose.

When unwrapping, pick up ribbons, paper and small tags: if swallowed, they can cause problems.

The holiday meal: spoiling them safely

It's tempting to slip them something from your plate. But many holiday dishes contain foods that are dangerous for them, like chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic or xylitol. We've put together a full guide to foods toxic to dogs over the holidays.

To include them anyway:

• serve their usual meal at the same time as yours;
• add a small treat made for dogs rather than table scraps;
• give them a long-lasting toy while you eat, so they don't beg.

If your dog swallows something dangerous, call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away.

Respecting their need for calm

For some dogs, the holidays are a lot: people, noise, doors opening, schedules turned upside down. Holiday magic also means respecting their limits.

• A safe spot: their bed in a quieter room, with water and a toy. If they settle there, let them be.
• Rules for kids: no bothering the dog while they sleep or eat.
• Their routine, as much as possible: same meal and walk times.
• A walk before guests arrive: a dog who has burned some energy greets people more calmly.

If your dog gets very stressed at gatherings, talk to your veterinarian well before the holidays.

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog open their own presents?

Yes, with plain paper, no ribbon or tape, and under your supervision. Pick up the pieces right after.

Can I bring my dog to a family Christmas Eve?

If your dog is comfortable with people and your hosts agree, why not. Bring their bed, bowl and a toy, and plan a quiet room for them.

In short

Christmas with your dog is all about the little things: a photo, a walk under the lights, a present to sniff, a quiet spot when the party is in full swing. With a little care, your companion makes happy holiday memories too.