The holidays are a time for family, and for many of us, that includes our four-legged best friends. Why not make this season extra special by including your dog in the festivities?
Whether you’re snapping photos with Santa or taking in the sparkling lights, these activities will make the season extra merry and bright. Here are five simple and heartwarming ways to make your dog feel like part of the holiday magic.
Strike a Pose: Photos with Santa
What’s more festive than your dog sitting on Santa’s lap? Many regional pet stores, outdoor outfitters like Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops, and local shelters host pet-friendly Santa photo sessions. Not only will you get an adorable keepsake, but these events often support charitable causes. Check online or your local humane society for pop-up events near you!
Deck the Halls (and Their Stocking!)
Hanging stockings by the fire is a time-honored tradition, so your dog should have one too! Fill it with their favorite treats, toys, or even a festive bandana. For a DIY twist, let your dog decorate it! Using pet-safe paint or an ink pad, you can create a keepsake that’s uniquely them. Before you start, check that the paint or ink is safe for pets – dogs can be surprisingly quick to lick their paws!
Here’s how:
- Lay out some newspaper to protect your floor (things might get messy!).
- Dip your dog’s paw gently into the paint or ink pad.
- Press it onto the stocking or a sturdy piece of fabric.
- Clean their paw thoroughly before they scamper off.
This low-cost craft adds a personal, adorable touch to their holiday decor and creates a memory you’ll treasure for years.
Go for a Holiday Lights Walk
Bundle up, grab a leash, and hit the most festive neighborhoods to check out the Christmas lights. It’s great exercise, and dogs love the fresh air and excitement. Some places even offer drive-through light shows that allow dogs to tag along in the car.
“Why not make this season extra special by including your dog in the festivities?“
Festive Treat Bake-Off
Your pup shouldn’t miss out on holiday goodies. Bake them some dog-safe treats in fun holiday shapes like trees or stars. Sweet potato biscuits or peanut butter cookies are always a hit. Just remember to avoid ingredients like chocolate or raisins, which are harmful to dogs. Here is a simple recipe so your dog can get in on the holiday cookie exchange:
3 Ingredient Homemade Dog Treats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 20-40 (depending on the cookie cutter size)
Ingredients
2 cups oats (old fashioned, 1-minute oats, or instant) plus more if needed
2 medium ripe bananas
½ cup natural peanut butter (Avoid peanut butter that contains added oils, sugars, and especially xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs.)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 300F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grind oats in a food processor until they reach a fine powder.
Add the bananas and peanut butter and blend until a sticky dough is formed.
Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface. Use Christmas themed cookie cutters to cut out the treats.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool and then let your dog enjoy!
Store your treats in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, or freeze.
Host a Doggy Gift Exchange
Organize a small dog park get-together with friends and their dogs for a dog-themed gift exchange. Set a price limit and watch as tails wag and pups play with their new treasures. You’ll all leave with happy memories!
Happy Holidays from Barkswell!
Photo by edb3_16 from Getty Images
If you enjoyed this post, you should read Spooky (and Adorable!) Halloween Costume Ideas for Your Dog here.
How will you celebrate the holidays with your pup?
