Christmas is a great time to hang out with loved ones, and that definitely includes our dachshund buddies! There are so many fun ways to make the holiday extra special for your pup, whether it’s with festive treats or cozy traditions. Here are ten easy tips to keep your dog safe, happy, and part of all the holiday fun.
1. Dog-Proof Your Decorations
Holiday decorations are a big attraction for your dachshund’s curious eyes and nose, so it’s worth taking a few steps to dachshund-proof your decor to avoid any mishaps. Start by putting ornaments, lights, and tinsel somewhere your dachshund can’t reach. They’re clever and determined, so anything at their level might be investigated or chewed on.
Avoid fragile glass ornaments on the lower branches and go for shatterproof ones instead. It’s a great idea to prepare some dachshund Christmas decorations, especially for them – soft, safe to chew, and themed for the holiday.
Plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can be toxic if ingested, so it’s best to keep them in spots your dachshund can’t access. If you’re using a real Christmas tree, just be aware that pine needles on the floor can irritate paws and mouths. And, of course, always make sure you turn off holiday lights when you’re not around to supervise. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy a beautifully decorated space that’s safe for your dachshund.
2. Create a Cozy Christmas Hideaway
With all the holiday festivities going on, your dachshund might really benefit from a chill spot to relax. Set up a cozy little “holiday hideaway” in a quiet corner, complete with a comfy bed or their favorite blanket. Throw in a soft, festive blanket and a few plush toys to make it feel extra special. If you have guests over, just make sure this area stays open and undisturbed so your dachshund has a safe place to escape the chaos. Having their own space will help them feel secure and give them a chance to recharge.
3. Dress Them in Festive Comfort
Nothing says holiday spirit like a dog Christmas sweater! When picking out a dog Christmas outfit, make sure it’s comfortable and allows for easy movement. Look for soft dachshund Christmas sweaters, or dachshund Christmas pajamas made of breathable materials and avoid anything that might restrict their little legs or tummy.
A cute holiday bandana or a Christmas dog collar with a simple jingle bell can also add festive flair without too much fuss. Just remember to keep an eye on them when they’re all dressed up—some dachshunds love it, while others may prefer to stick to their natural coat for comfort.
4. Plan a Festive Walk
Bring some holiday cheer to your dachshund by taking them on a festive walk through the neighborhood. Dachshunds love exploring new sights and scents, and a stroll past twinkling lights and decorated homes is a great way for them to enjoy the season.
If it’s cold, wrap them up in a warm sweater, and pick a route with holiday displays they can admire from a safe distance. Some pet-friendly towns even have holiday parades or light displays that welcome dogs—perfect for a festive outing! And don’t forget to take a few photos of your dachshund enjoying the holiday magic along the way.
5. Make DIY Dog-Safe Holiday Treats
Treat your dachshund to a taste of the holidays with some homemade dog-friendly snacks. Making your own treats is a great way to spoil your dog while making sure their food is safe and healthy. You can make tasty Christmas dog treats with ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats, which are easy on their stomachs. Why not give peanut butter and pumpkin dog biscuits a try? You could even use cookie cutters to shape the treats into holiday designs like stars and trees.
Just a heads-up: It’s probably best to avoid ingredients that could be harmful to dogs, like chocolate, nuts, or raisins. With a batch of homemade treats, your dachshund can join in on the holiday snacking safely!
6. Include Them in Family Traditions
Make your dachshund a part of the holiday traditions by giving them a special dog Christmas stocking. Fill it with yummy treats, Christmas dog toys, or a comfy blanket to keep them cozy. Let them open a gift on Christmas morning— many dogs love the thrill of ripping into wrapping paper to find a surprise (make sure to pack it in brown paper as the ink in some Christmas wrapping may be toxic).
While you’re decorating the tree or making holiday crafts, keep your pup close so they can soak up the festive vibes. Giving your dachshund their own dog Christmas gifts and including them in the celebrations helps them feel like a beloved part of the family.
7. Travel Safely Together
If you’re planning to travel for the holidays, make sure your dachshund is comfortable and safe. When you’re in the car, use a secure harness or travel crate to keep them safe and prevent distractions while driving. Make a small bag with their necessities—food, water, their favorite blanket, and a toy or two. If you’re flying, check the airline’s pet policies well in advance and make sure your dachshund is comfortable with the travel carrier.
If you’re staying with family or in a pet-friendly hotel, set up a small area where your dachshund can feel at home. Familiar items, like their bed or favorite toy, can help them settle in more easily. Take a few extra steps to plan your trip and you’ll all be as comfortable and happy as you are during your holiday travels.
8. Set Boundaries with Guests
Holidays often mean a house full of guests, which can be a lot of fun but may also be stressful for your dachshund. To keep things chill for everyone, it’s good to set a few boundaries. Make sure to let your guests know not to feed your dachshund from the table—lots of holiday foods like chocolate, onions, and rich dishes can be dangerous for dogs. You could even put up a little “No People Food” sign in the dining area as a friendly reminder.
Plus, keep an eye on the doors since dachshunds love to explore and can easily slip out. By keeping these rules in place, your pup can enjoy the holiday gatherings without too much stress and have a great time!
9. Keep Hazardous Holiday Items Out of Reach
It’s easy to forget about everyday items that could be dangerous for pets during the holidays. Dachshunds are always curious, and they love to chew on wrapping materials like ribbons, small ornaments, and plastic tags. If they swallow these items, they can cause choking or digestive issues. Once you’ve unwrapped your gifts or finished decorating, take a few minutes to tidy up so you don’t leave these items within reach. If you have scented candles or essential oils, keep them on high surfaces since some scents can be irritating or toxic to dogs.
Be mindful of batteries, too—small, shiny, and often included with new holiday gadgets, they can be dangerous if ingested. Taking a few extra steps to secure these items will ensure your dachshund’s holiday is as safe as it is enjoyable!
10. Unwind with a Quiet Post-Holiday Routine
After the holidays, it’s good to unwind with a quiet routine. Your dachshund will probably appreciate some quiet time to recharge. Get back to a calming routine with gentle walks, playtime, and cozy nights. If your dachshund had a few too many treats, gradually adjust their diet to keep them feeling healthy and balanced. Take this time to relax together, enjoying the simple comforts of home.
A calm post-holiday routine will help your dachshund settle back in and prepare for a fresh new year by your side.
Conclusion
This holiday season, it’s important to keep your dachshund safe while still letting them join in on the fun. Just be aware of some common hazards, like keeping decorations out of their reach, steering clear of foods that could harm them, and setting boundaries with guests.
A little prep goes a long way in making sure both you and your pup have a great, stress-free holiday together. After all, a happy holiday is one where everyone, including your furry buddy, is safe and well taken care of.
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