How to Include Your Dog in Christmas Traditions 🐶❤️
Christmas is a time for family, and our dogs are beloved members of that family. Including your furry friend in holiday traditions is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond, create special memories, and ensure they feel just as cherished during the festive season. Whether it’s through festive activities or meaningful gestures, here are some paw-some ideas to make your dog a big part of your Christmas celebrations.
1. Bake Dog Treats Together
What’s more festive than baking? Whip up some DIY dog-friendly treats like gingerbread or cinnamon apple cookies using simple, healthy ingredients. Baking together not only fills your home with delicious scents but also creates a fun bonding moment. (Pro tip: Check out our easy-to-use treat kits for the ultimate holiday bake-off experience.) Here are some suggestions for how to make those treats extra Christmasy.
Safety Tip: Always avoid harmful ingredients like chocolate, xylitol, and excessive sugar.
2. Take Part in Holiday-Themed Photoshoots
Capture the magic of the season with a festive photoshoot featuring your pup. Whether it’s matching pyjamas, cozy Christmas sweaters, or a backdrop of twinkling lights, a themed photoshoot is a surefire way to make lasting memories. Share the love by posting on social media with hashtags like #DogsOfChristmas!
3. Host a Dog-Friendly Christmas Movie Night
Snuggle up on the couch with your pup for a cozy movie night featuring holiday classics like The Grinch or Home Alone, or dog focused features like Beethoven or Snow Buddies. Create a dog-friendly snack setup with plain popcorn or small, safe treats, and enjoy the warmth of spending quality time together.
4. Organise a Dog Christmas Party or Meetup
Spread the holiday cheer by hosting a dog-friendly gathering! Invite friends and their dogs for an afternoon of treats, games, and festive fun. Offer pup-friendly goodies like dog-safe cookies and have a "best-dressed" contest for holiday outfits.
5. Gift Your Dog an Experience
Rather than another toy, consider giving your dog the gift of an experience. Plan a winter hike, explore a new walking route, or treat them to a relaxing spa day. These shared activities are wonderful opportunities for bonding and are sure to bring your dog joy.
6. Create a Dog-Friendly Christmas Dinner
Let your dog enjoy the holiday feast with a special meal made just for them. Turkey, sweet potatoes (plain), and steamed veggies can make a safe and delicious meal. Avoid any ingredients that might harm them, such as onions, garlic, or fatty trimmings.
7. Give Back Together
Share the Christmas spirit by giving back. Maybe that’s donating to one of the great organisations supporting dogs in need by donating to a local shelter, sponsor a dog for the holidays, or volunteer as a family. See if you can bring your dog to a hospital, or senior centre to cheer up the residents. Nothing spreads warmth more than a lovely doggie cuddle! Including your dog in this tradition teaches kindness and makes the season even more meaningful.
8. Creating a Lasting Memory
Use the festive season to create a memory that lasts forever. Whether it’s taking a special Christmas photo together, creating a scrapbook of your favorite moments from the year, or writing a little note about what made this year special with your pup, these gestures help capture the love and joy of the season. The end of the year is a great time to reflect on some of the great times you’ve shared together.
9. Enjoy Wintry Walks Together
The festive season is perfect for exploring the outdoors with your dog, provided that you wrap up warm. Take a stroll through your neighbourhood to admire the Christmas lights or visit a park with a holiday display. If you’re feeling adventurous, seek out a new walking route or trail for a brisk winter walk. These outings are a wonderful way to combine exercise, fresh air, and festive cheer for both you and your pup.
10. Make a New Year’s Resolution Together
As the year comes to an end, why not make a resolution that includes your dog? Whether it’s committing to more walks, trying out new recipes, or spending extra quality time together, this small act of reflection can set the tone for a wonderful year ahead.
Conclusion
Including your dog in Christmas traditions is a beautiful way to celebrate the bond you share. Whether you’re baking treats, enjoying wintry walks, or creating lasting memories, these ideas are sure to make the season extra special for both of you.
We’d love to see how you include your dog in your holiday celebrations! Tag us on Instagram with #DogAndBondChristmas or check out our festive treat kits to make your season paw-fect.