Christmas is a time for family, friends, and of course, our furry friends!

If you're like many dog lovers out there, you probably struggle with leaving your pup at home while you go out and celebrate the holiday season. But that doesn't mean your dog can't join in on the fun! Here are a few tips on what to do and what to bring to make sure both you and your four-legged friend have a blast at all the holiday parties this year.

What to Do:

First things first, before you bring your pup to any holiday party, it's important to make sure they will be comfortable in the environment. You know your dog best, so use your best judgement on whether or not they would enjoy being around a lot of people and other animals. If you're unsure, start by bringing them to smaller gatherings or events where they can get used to being around larger groups of people.

 

It's also important to make sure your dog is well-behaved before bringing them into a situation where there will be lots of people and food around. No one wants their party ruined by a dog who is barking or jumping all over the place - trust us, we've seen it happen! If your dog is prone to getting excited or anxious in new environments, there are plenty of calming solutions available such as treats, collars, or even just good old-fashioned cuddles.

 

What to Bring:

Aside from making sure your own personal belongings are squared away for the party (don't forget the mistletoe!), there are a few things you'll want to bring for your pup as well. Depending on how long the party will be and how far you'll be from home, you may want to consider bringing food and water bowls as well as some snacks for your four-legged friend. No one likes hearing their stomach growl when they're trying to enjoy themselves! Toy or chew bone can also come in handy to help keep your pup occupied if they're not used to being around so many people.  And last but not least, don't forget the doggy bag - accidents happen, especially when nervous pups are involved. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

Christmas parties are a great opportunity to introduce your four-legged friend to some new people and let them burn off some energy after being cooped up inside all winter. By following these simple tips, you can make sure both you and your pup have a great time at all the holiday parties this year!