The festive season brings joy, celebration, and… visitors.
For many dogs, especially reactive ones, this can feel overwhelming. New smells, new voices, unpredictable movement… it’s a lot to process. But with a bit of planning and empathy, you can make holiday gatherings safer, calmer, and far more comfortable for both your dog and your guests.
Why Holidays Can Be Hard for Reactive Dogs
A reactive dog isn’t “naughty.” They’re not being dramatic, difficult, or disobedient. They’re responding to stress, novelty, or perceived threats in the only way they know how.
Common triggers during the holidays include:
New people entering the home
Fast or unpredictable guest behaviour
Changes in routine
Loud conversations, music, or children
Smells, decorations, and different energy in the home
Understanding this helps you create a compassionate plan that protects your dog’s emotional safety.
1. Prepare a Safe Space Before Guests Arrive
Your dog needs a predictable, quiet area to retreat to – a place where no one will disturb them.
Create a safe space with:
Their bed or blanket
Water and a safe chew
A barrier like a baby gate
Soft lighting
Something scented like your shirt or blanket
This room becomes your dog’s “holiday sanctuary.”
2. Give Your Dog Choice in Whether to Greet Guests
One of the most powerful tools you have is choice.
Allow your dog to:
Stay in their safe room
Watch from behind a gate
Approach briefly and retreat
Opt out of greetings completely
Forced greetings can trigger reactivity. Choice reduces pressure.
3. Manage the Environment
Good management protects your dog and your guests.
Helpful tools include:
Baby gates
Pens
Leads for controlled introductions
Visual barriers like curtains or furniture
White noise machines to reduce overwhelming sounds
The calmer the environment, the calmer the dog.
4. Coach Guests Before They Enter
Most reactivity problems worsen when guests don’t know what to do.
Let visitors know:
No sudden approaches
No leaning over or touching without invitation
Avoid eye contact if your dog is unsure
Move gently and quietly when entering
It’s also helpful to say:
“Please ignore the dog when you come in – no talking to them, no touching, no eye contact. Let them choose if they want to interact.”
Clear boundaries keep everyone safe.
5. Keep Energy Low for the First 5–10 Minutes
Entry moments are the most intense for reactive dogs.
To help:
Let guests enter calmly
Keep your dog in another room or behind a barrier
Allow scents and sounds to settle
Bring your dog out once the initial excitement is over – if they want to
Many reactive dogs settle beautifully once the “rush” is gone.
6. Use High-Value Reinforcement
Have treats your dog truly loves and reward:
Looking at guests and disengaging
Choosing to walk away
Approaching politely (if they want to)
Relaxed behaviour around visitors
Reactivity decreases when good things consistently happen around triggers.
7. Give Regular Breaks (Even if You Think Your Dog Is Fine)
Even confident dogs get overwhelmed during the holidays.
Offer breaks regularly:
10–15 minutes in their safe space
A quick sniff outside
A short quiet moment with you
Think of it as emotional decompression.
Holidays don’t have to be chaotic for reactive dogs. With gentle preparation, realistic expectations, and clear boundaries, your dog can feel safe – and you can enjoy your guests without stress.
Remember:
A reactive dog isn’t trying to be difficult. They’re telling you they’re overwhelmed. When we listen, support, and protect them, we help them feel secure during a season that can be very intense.
Looking for help from a qualified equine behaviourist?
At Gentled Animals, we’re here to help you and your dog live harmoniously, with understanding and kindness at the heart of every solution.