My dog doesn’t like strangers…

And I’ve 27 people staying for Christmas!

I have seen an increase in enquiries recently from people because they are concerned about their dog this Christmas.  The most common concern is how their dog will cope with an influx of new people.

If  you are concerned about your own dog read on, or get in touch.

Christmas can be stressful enough without worrying how your dog will cope.

Dogs like routines and feeling safe, at Christmas understandably, this can often go out of the window.

If your dog is nervous of new people or lots of activity there is plenty you can do to make their life easier.

The key is to start NOW.

Provide a safe place for your dog to retreat to when it all gets too much, it gives peace of mind to everyone.

Something as simple as a comfy bed in the spare bedroom (make sure its not where everyone dumps their coats). Make sure there are some nice toys and treats in there. Check out some of my previous blogs for ideas to entertain your dog.

If your dog gets over excited or abit ‘snippy’ a crate provides a great hidey-hole.

There is still time (if you start now) to introduce your dog to a crate. It is something we do with a lot of our clients, get in touch if you need advice.

You need to make the crate a safe and fun place to be.

Place the crate in a quiet area of the house where few people go, you can also cover the top of the crate with a blanket for extra sound proofing and a feeling of security.

The crate needs a comfy bed and access to water.

First things first, I want you to spend time making sure your dog is comfortable going into in his crate before you even think about closing the door.

Make sure that everything that happens in the crate is positive.  Kongs are a great toy to offer in the crate. They take time to eat and are a positive experience for your dog.

One of my dogs, Amos, was a little scared to go in his crate (the door had clanged once and startled him) so I tried something different. I placed several of his favourite treats (liver cake) in the crate and pushed the door closed (not locked). He had to figure out how to get in there to retrieve his treats. It’s now one of his favourite games and places.

Don’t be tempted to just put your dog in his crate, close the door and hope for the best. You run the danger of making it seem like a bad place to be and this will make it harder in the future.

The RSPCA have a great article on choosing the right dog crate.