The holidays are a time for sparkle, treats, and cozy moments—but for dog parents, decorating comes with its own set of challenges. Curious pups can get into everything from dangling ornaments to twinkling lights, turning festive fun into potential hazards.

Luckily, with a few simple tips, you can keep your home festive and safe for your furry friend.

1. Secure Your Tree

A wobbly Christmas tree is like a magnet for curious pups.

• Anchor it to the wall or ceiling to prevent tipping.
• Avoid tinsel and fragile ornaments that can be swallowed.
• Use shatterproof ornaments on lower branches.
• Consider a tree skirt or barrier so your pup can’t sneak under the branches.

2. Skip Toxic Plants

Some classic holiday plants are toxic to dogs, including:

• Mistletoe
• Holly
• Poinsettias

If you love the festive greenery, opt for dog-safe faux plants or place real ones out of reach.

3. Manage Lights and Cords

Twinkling lights are beautiful—but also tempting for pups.

• Hide or cover cords to prevent chewing.
• Turn off lights when unsupervised.
• Consider LED lights, which stay cooler and are safer if accidentally touched.

4. Treats and Food Safety

Holiday snacks are everywhere, but some are dangerous for dogs:

• Chocolate, grapes, and raisins are toxic.
• Keep table scraps and candy bowls out of reach.
• Instead, treat your pup to dog-friendly holiday treats.

5. Create a Pup-Safe Zone

Decorating and entertaining can overwhelm some dogs.

• Set up a quiet corner or crate area with a comfy blanket or toy.
• Give your pup a safe space where they can relax while the festivities unfold.

6. Decorate Mindfully

• Keep breakable ornaments high.
• Avoid ribbons or strings that your pup could swallow.
• Use non-toxic spray snow if your dog likes to sniff everything.
  

🎄 Extra Tip: Make Decorating Fun for Both of You

Turn holiday decorating into a bonding moment! Let your pup watch safely from a distance and reward calm behavior with treats or cuddles. With a little planning, your holiday season can be joyful, safe, and full of tail wags. 🐶🐾