It’s that time of year where our routines go out of the window. There are a million and one things on the to-do list and we’re running out of days. Do our dogs get much consideration? Or do we just sweep them along for the ride? I’ll try and keep this brief but just take 5 minutes to read my thoughts on Christmas with dogs!

First up, clothes. I’m talking everything from Father Christmas hats to festive jumpers. But how necessary are they? Are we just expecting our dogs to wear them because they look cute on Instagram or do they actually serve a purpose? A waterproof jacket when it’s raining is one thing, but reindeer antlers may be a bridge too far. Now, don’t get me wrong, some dogs actually do love wearing clothes, yes Tam – I’m talking about you, but have we actually taken notice of whether the dog is comfortable with what we’d like them to wear? Some dogs also need that extra layer when it’s chilly outside. I’m not saying never ever, I’d just like for people to think a little more carefully before they force their dog into an outfit they don’t want or need to be in.

Next up for discussion, presents under the tree! Inspired by my own ribbon eating terrier! Does your dog get left alone in this room? Do we know what is in the presents? Is it edible? Have we got time for a vet trip? On the whole, for me, this is a no-no for me with my dog. This might not necessarily be the case for you and yours, but is it really fair for us to be cross at our dogs for unwrapping a gift that turns out to be a lovely box of biscuits? (Even if they were meant for human consumption!)

Now for the big one, visiting family. Whether this be a trip out somewhere public, or a day at the in-laws, should we really be taking our dogs with us and do we have a proper plan for when we’re there? More questions for you – has the dog been to the place before? Have they met everyone they’ll encounter? Have they got somewhere to settle and have downtime? Is there space for them to be away from people? Will there be other family dogs? Will there be children? Is there a secure garden? Sometimes we think we’re doing the best thing by taking our dogs with us so they don’t have to be home alone, this isn’t always the case. If the dog has had several days out that are different to normal, bigger walks because you’re off work or more trips to new houses because you’ve got family and friends to visit, they may be glad of some time to rest and sleep in peace at home. Again, I’m not saying never take your dog with you to see your family, just make sure you have a plan. I’ll definitely be taking my dog with me to see my family! He’s met the family dogs before, we’re going to a calm house with plenty of space for everyone, the plan is to be out with him for an hour or so, not too long for him to get tired and we have a crate in the car for him if we need to give him some down time.

The last food for thought, well it’s food! There’s going to be lots of extra goodies around and we all love to share. It goes without saying that we need to be extra careful that are dogs aren’t getting to eat anything toxic, the obvious ones for Christmas being chocolate, mince pies and alcohol. We also need to consider what extras we’re giving them vs the nutritionally balanced food they usually have. It’s not a no human food zone here, quite the opposite and Skeeter will definitely be getting his own Christmas dinner on the big day, but as a one off and instead of his usual meal. This way we don’t risk over feeding but I also make sure he gets balanced meals the rest of the time. Maybe think about adding just a few extras through the day and reducing the portion size of their normal meal if you don’t want to feed a whole meal of goodies. There are loads of Christmas food they can enjoy with us; it just needs keeping an eye on.

Lots to think about and really the final thing to say is not “don’t do any of these things” but simply make a plan to make sure that the festive period and everything that comes with it is enjoyable for your dog too. Be an advocate for your dog, you’re their voice.