If your house is the party house this Chrismahanukwanzakah, you're probably feeling excited. Your dog, however, can't read a calendar and doesn't get advance notice that he'll soon be hosting a party.

From his point of view, he'll be minding his own business and having a normal day when, suddenly, there's a house full of people.

If you have an outgoing dog, he might love all the attention and dropped food.

If your dog is more of an introvert, the tips below can help you make it easier on him this holiday season.

Sit & Stay Pro Tip - Keep Your Dog Relaxed During Holiday Parties

Of course, we’re putting a lot of emphasis on the holidays this week, but these tips are great for any large gathering at any time of year.

1. Be your dog’s advocate.

Let guests know what your dog is and isn’t comfortable with. They may need to know that approaching your dog will stress him out, and they should wait for the dog to warm up and approach them. You may need to keep the dog in a separate room entirely and ask guests not to enter. Also, don’t hesitate to establish boundaries around table food!

2. Help your dog get out as much energy as possible.

Giving your dog extra exercise before the party may help tire him out so he doesn’t have as much nervous energy (if he’s anxious around large groups) or hyperactivity (if he’s excited).

3. Review basic obedience training.

It always helps if you can depend on your dog to listen to commands without hesitation. If he gets nippy with a guest, you need to be able to send him out of the room. If someone drops a piece of food that could be harmful, you need to trust him to stay put. If you have small children coming, you need to know he will sit or lie down rather than jump on them.

4. Provide an escape route.

Ensure your pup always has the option to leave the situation. Set aside a quiet corner in the house where your dog can relax if he gets overstimulated.

5. Keep your dog busy.

Of course, you'll entertain your guests, but don't forget about your pup! Give him a new bone or a Kong filled with peanut butter to keep him content during the party.

Poll

Dog Food and Supplement Recalls

No new recalls reported! 🥳

Poll Results

We asked why you’re thankful for your dog, and we loved your heartwarming responses. Predictably, most respondents said they loved their dog for all the reasons! 🐶

The Smile Section

If you have a story or photo that can make us smile, send it to [email protected].

Vet Recommendations: Holiday Treat Recipe

We decided to make this week’s vet recommendation a little more festive by sharing this vet-approved homemade dog treat recipe from Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital.

Click here to view the recipe.

5(ish) Gift Ideas for Dogs — under $25!

1. You can’t go wrong with these beautifully decorated gourmet dog biscuits for $19.99.

2. Leave a few festive rope toys under the tree for just $12.79.

3. You don’t have to worry about stuffing a stocking. This one comes packed with rawhide chews for $14.99.

4. If your dog likes to dress up, this costume makes it look like your dog is giving Santa a ride for $23.99.

5. Don’t think we forgot about non-Christmas holiday presents! We found this adorable Kwanzaa bandana for $11.99 and this funny “Chewish” dog toy for $6.99.

Treats

• 🍹Pawtenders: First there was the puppacino, now we have pawgaritas!

• 🛥️ Cattle dog races a boat: This cattle dog has some series get up and go as it races its’ owner’s boat on a shoreline.

Want your dog to be featured?

We’d love to!

Think your dog can make us smile? Submit a pic to [email protected] for a chance to see your pet in our Smile Section!