Thanksgiving is next week and although it can take some time to prepare your dog with certain guest behaviors there are a few to consider as we enter the holiday season. The mentioned Behaviors For Thanksgiving should be taught prior to guests coming over and practiced as much as possible.
Stop Jumping
Teach your dog to sit instead of jumping when people come over. Also keeping your dog on a leash for the first half of the gathering will also prevent the jumping as well. Gates and kennels are also good tools to use as well.
Use Interactive and Enrichment toys
Use these when your dog seems anxious or getting pushy with guests.
Set them up in a safe place to enjoy their toy without disruptions. I always recommend Kongs, Toppls and lick mats available. (Add links)
Meet their Mental and Physical Exercise
Make sure to take them on a nice relaxing walk prior to people coming over. Practice place and other calming behaviors prior to people coming over.
Teach your dog Leave it and Place
Especially when you have people over who are not used to dogs, make sure your dog can leave food and put themselves in place to keep safe boundaries. This is also being respectful to your guests.
Have a Safe, Quiet Space Prepared
These holiday events can be very draining for dogs. Make sure you provide them a safe space for them to retreat to
If you struggle with your dog when people come over, contact me today and we can discuss management tools and set up a stop by session to get you on the right track. It is important to remember that behaviors take time and need consistent, clear communication to work. You need to understand your dogs speed and adjust as needed. Do not expect perfection the first holiday you host.
