#dogbehaviortips

You're not the only one whose walks turn into barking matches. Many loving dog owners have trouble with dogs that bark or lunge at people and other dogs while on walks. 

When most people meet a dog, they get excited, because we humans believe greetings should be full of energy and affection. But here’s the catch: when we consistently greet dogs with excitement, they learn to associate humans with barking, jumping, and over-the-top energy.

From my experience, I’ve learned that leash pulling almost always comes back to a lack of solid basic obedience training. Once I stopped viewing it as just a “bad habit” and started treating it as a training gap, everything shifted. Going back to basics like sit, heel, and focus commands gave my dog clearer direction and made our walks far less stressful.

I used to assume my dog’s tail only meant one thing wagging equals happiness, especially when snacks were involved. But once I started noticing the details in how he carried it held high and stiff, tucked low, or moving in a loose, easy rhythm I realized he was communicating far more than I’d ever noticed. A tense, upright tail often signaled alertness or uncertainty, while a slow, relaxed wag told me he felt calm and secure. That simple awareness completely changed how I handled everyday moments with him.

The holidays bring lights, music, parties, and yes — a lot of chaos. While people may thrive on the excitement, dogs often do not. Strange guests, loud noises, and disrupted routines can quickly turn a joyful season into a stressful one for your furry friend. Luckily, with some planning and care, you can help your dog stay relaxed, safe, and happy all season long.

🏡 1. Designate a Calm “Holiday Retreat”

Create a space where your dog can escape the commotion.

Pick a quiet room with their bed, toys, and water

Use a crate if they’re crate-trained and feel safe inside

Consider a white-noise machine or soft music to mask loud sounds

This gives your dog a consistent safe zone, which is crucial during unpredictable holiday events.

⏰ 2. Keep Consistent Daily Routines

Dogs thrive on predictability.

Stick to normal feeding and walking schedules

Maintain usual nap and bedtime routines

Avoid skipping walks, even if you’re busy

Even small touches of normalcy reduce stress and keep your dog grounded.

🐕 3. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired dog is a calm dog.

Take longer walks or play fetch before big gatherings

Use puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to engage their mind

Short training sessions can be mentally tiring and rewarding

Extra activity helps release energy that might otherwise turn into holiday anxiety.

🧴 4. Consider Calming Aids

Some dogs need extra support during the holidays:

Vet-approved calming treats or supplements

Anxiety wraps or vests

Dog-safe pheromone diffusers

Soft massage or grooming sessions

Introduce these before the holiday so your dog associates them with comfort, not stress.

🍽️ 5. Manage Food and Decor Hazards

Holidays bring tempting dangers.

Keep chocolate, alcohol, and fatty foods out of reach

Avoid tinsel, ribbons, candles, and holiday cords

Monitor small decorations that could be swallowed

A calm dog is a safe dog — prevention is key.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 6. Prepare Your Dog for Guests

Visitors can be stressful if your dog isn’t comfortable with strangers:

Let your dog meet new people at their pace

Ask guests not to crowd, hug, or feed your dog

Provide a separate retreat if the house gets too busy

Respecting your dog’s comfort zones reduces anxiety and prevents unwanted incidents.

🎆 7. Plan for Fireworks and Loud Noises

Fireworks, parties, and carolers can trigger fear:

Keep windows and curtains closed

Play calming music to mask external noise

Stay calm yourself — dogs mirror your energy

For severe anxiety, talk to your vet about temporary solutions

🐾 8. Reward Calm Behavior

Encourage your dog to relax rather than fear:

Offer treats or praise for calm behavior

Avoid reinforcing fearful reactions with excessive coddling

Keep a calm, steady presence

Positive reinforcement helps them learn that the holidays can be safe and enjoyable.

🎄 Final Thoughts

Looking to improve your dog’s behavior or just want to enhance your training skills? K9 Training Institute is offering a FREE workshop to help you unlock the secrets to better communication and obedience with your pup. This workshop is designed by experts to provide effective, positive training techniques that work for dogs of all ages and breeds.

✨ What You’ll Learn:

How to correct common behavior issues

Simple techniques to improve obedience

Strengthening the bond between you and your dog

👉 Don’t miss out – sign up today and start your journey to a well-behaved, happier pup! Join the Free K9 Training Workshop Here!