Dog-Safe Holiday Decorations: Training Tips to Keep Your Pup Out of Trouble
The lights are twinkling, the tree is up, and the stockings are hung… but if you’ve got a curious dog in the house, the holidays can feel less like a Hallmark movie and more like a game of What Will They Chew Next?
From pine needles to plug-in light displays, the holiday season is filled with temptations for dogs—especially energetic puppies or dogs still learning boundaries.
Let’s walk through some holiday-specific training tips to keep your home festive and your pup safe.
Common Holiday Hazards for Dogs
Before we jump into solutions, let’s talk about what you’re actually up against. Some top troublemakers include:
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Christmas tree water (which may contain preservatives or fertilizers)
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Ornaments (glass ones can shatter; others may look like toys)
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Tinsel and ribbons (digestive blockages waiting to happen)
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Candles or wax melts (easy to knock over with a wagging tail)
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Holiday foods (chocolate, bones, grapes, etc.)
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Electric cords and twinkle lights
In Missoula homes where decorations go big, your dog needs just as much training as supervision.
Tip #1: Reinforce “Place” and Crate Time
Your dog doesn’t have to be in the middle of the holiday action 24/7. Structure keeps them calm and prevents accidents.
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Use a “place” command to station your dog on a mat or cot while you decorate or host guests
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Practice crate training during down times—especially during meals, tree trimming, or parties
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Reward calm behavior with food, affection, or chew toys
This structured time helps your dog learn that holiday energy doesn’t have to mean chaos.
Tip #2: Practice the “Leave It” Command Early and Often
That dangling ornament or peppermint-scented candle may seem irresistible—but “leave it” can be your best friend.
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Start by practicing with toys and treats on the ground
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Reinforce eye contact and choosing not to go after the object
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Gradually increase difficulty by using holiday-specific items like wrapping paper or bows
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Don’t wait until the day-of—start now while the environment is controlled
This is especially helpful with younger puppies or recently adopted dogs who haven’t experienced Christmas before.
Tip #3: Create a Dog-Safe Holiday Zone
Make small adjustments to help your dog succeed. Think of it as festive dog-proofing:
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Secure your tree (especially if you’ve got a climber or tail-wagger)
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Use baby gates to keep dogs out of high-risk areas like the kitchen or tree room
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Put presents out last-minute if your dog loves to chew boxes or bows
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Place edible gifts (chocolates, goodies) far out of reach
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Elevate cords or cover them to prevent chewing
Proactive design helps prevent training setbacks or emergency vet visits.
Tip #4: Supervise, Don’t Assume
Even well-trained dogs need guidance in new environments.
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Watch how your dog reacts to new decorations or changes in furniture
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Intervene early if they seem overstimulated or anxious
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Provide alternatives like a chew toy, frozen treat, or sniff mat to redirect energy
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Be cautious during social events—holiday guests may unknowingly reinforce bad habits
Dogs thrive with clear rules and structure—even when surrounded by tinsel and chaos.
Tip #5: Adjust Expectations, Not Just Decorations
Holiday success with your dog doesn’t mean perfection—it means progress.
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If your dog used to bark and jump on every guest, calmly staying on place for 10 minutes is a win
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If your puppy normally chews everything in sight, ignoring the tree skirt is a win
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Celebrate the small stuff, and know that training during the holidays will pay off for years to come
Don’t Let the Holidays Derail Your Training
If the holiday hustle is throwing off your training goals, we can help. At Off Leash K9 Training Missoula, we offer private lessons and board & train programs that run year-round—yes, even during the holidays!
We’ll help your dog master door manners, crate time, leash walking, and impulse control so you can enjoy the season together.
📞 Contact us at 406-946-3037 or fill out the form below to schedule your free consult.
