Whether you're in charge of Christmas Eve, need to take your pooch on the go, or need to be looked after – December 24th can be a stressful day and evening for your dog. Especially if he's already anxious. In addition, the begging dog eyes under the table can quickly lead to a little too much fatty Christmas food, which can cause an upset stomach – and that's stressful for both you and your dog.
Here are 3 good tips for a quiet Christmas Eve with your dog.
1) A calm dog
If your dog gets stressed easily – for example when there are a lot of people around or when you are out of the house – natural sedatives can help calm the anxiety. The products consist of natural ingredients and do not have a sedative effect on your dog.
See all naturally soothing products here
Soothing chews
The chews work after about 30–60 minutes and are good when you know in advance that your dog will be in a situation that is usually difficult – for example, just before guests arrive, or before you go for a drive. They contain L-tryptophan , which contributes to the formation of serotonin – a neurotransmitter associated with calmness and well-being.
Aptus Relax
Adaptil Chew
Pheromones (Adaptil)
Mother dogs emit natural, reassuring signals (pheromones) to their puppies. Adaptil mimics these signals and helps dogs of all ages feel safe and relaxed in challenging situations. The products are available as a spray (for transport), collar (for use outside and at home) and diffuser (for home use).
See all Adaptil products
Daily dietary supplement
If your dog is anxious on a daily basis (and not just on special occasions), a daily supplement can be a good base. They often contain L-tryptophan and other natural ingredients that have a calming and relaxing effect. The effect is typically seen after about 2 weeks.
Statera calming supplements (pills)
Buddy calming supplements (treats)
Thundershirt (calming vest)
Thundershirt provides gentle, constant pressure around the dog's torso, which for many dogs has a calming effect – a bit like the effect of a weighted blanket. The vest often works immediately and is therefore ideal on Christmas Eve itself – and for New Year's.
2) No upset stomach
Christmas food is not dog food – so keep the (hopefully very crispy) pork rinds for yourself. The fatty Christmas food can cause diarrhea and vomiting, and in the worst case, trigger inflammation of the pancreas. Stay away from duck skin, medister sausage, fatty sauce and pork rinds for your dog.
First aid for loose stomach: Have a “toolbox” ready. Canikur Pro helps restore the intestinal flora (contains probiotics, prebiotics and clay minerals). Ensure fluids – and supplement with bone broth and gentle wet food (e.g. chicken).
See all first aid for upset stomach here
3) Madro
Even for the most well-behaved dog, the smell of crispy pork rinds, juicy duck meat and rich gravy can be tempting. Make it easy to say no by giving your dog his own “Christmas menu” – such as a delicious chew bone – while you eat.
We have many varieties for both small and large dogs.
See all chew bones here
A very Merry Christmas – and a peaceful Christmas Eve, just as you hope.
