Holiday Prep for Puppies: Avoiding Chaos at Your First Thanksgiving Together
Bringing home a puppy right before the holidays? You’re in for one of the cutest—and potentially most chaotic—holiday seasons of your life. Whether you’re hosting guests or heading out of town, your pup’s first Thanksgiving can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared.
As dog trainers in Missoula, we work with many first-time puppy owners trying to navigate obedience, socialization, and holiday manners all at once. The good news? A few key routines and training tips can go a long way in making your Thanksgiving less stressful and more enjoyable—for both of you.
Here’s how to set your puppy up for success before the turkey hits the table.
1. Crate Time Is Your Secret Weapon
Thanksgiving day is full of noise, excitement, and food—all things that can overwhelm a young puppy. The crate provides:
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A calm, safe space when guests arrive or things get busy
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A place to nap undisturbed during long celebrations
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A tool to prevent potty accidents or chewing while you’re distracted
Start building up positive crate association now, so your pup is comfortable resting there before the holiday arrives.
🟠 Tip: Feed meals in the crate and toss treats in throughout the day so your pup sees it as a good place—not a punishment.
2. Structure the Day in Advance
Just like kids, puppies need a routine. Even with guests over or travel plans, try to stick to:
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Consistent potty breaks (every 1–2 hours for young pups)
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Scheduled nap times to avoid overtired tantrums
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Short leash walks or play breaks for mental stimulation
Use the place command or a comfy mat to build calm behavior while people are eating or socializing. Start practicing now, so it’s not a brand-new concept on Thanksgiving Day.
3. Train Table Manners Early
Nothing ruins a holiday meal faster than a puppy stealing food off a plate or jumping on Grandma.
Focus on:
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Leave it: Essential for food on the floor, counters, or guests’ plates
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Down-stay or place: Helps keep your pup calm during mealtime
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No jumping: Teach your puppy to sit to greet people politely
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Crate before dinner: If they’re not ready to hang out during meals, that’s okay! Set them up for success by giving them a chew or frozen Kong in their crate.
🟠 Tip: Practice “place” while you eat dinner a few times before Thanksgiving so your pup builds the skill.
4. Socialization ≠ Overexposure
Yes, it’s great to have your puppy meet new people—but not all at once. Too many new faces, loud voices, or unpredictable children can lead to anxiety or overstimulation.
To keep your puppy’s socialization experience positive:
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Introduce new guests slowly, on leash
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Allow your pup to approach—not the other way around
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Watch for signs of stress (cowering, barking, nipping, tail tucked)
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Set up a “puppy quiet zone” where they can decompress if needed
If your puppy is fearful, avoid forcing interaction. Confidence comes with time and structure—not pressure.
5. Puppy-Proof Your Holiday Decor & Hosting Space
With puppies, everything is a chew toy—especially during the holidays.
Check your space for:
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Electrical cords from lights or warmers
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Candles and wax melts
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Dangling tablecloths or napkins
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Turkey bones or food scraps within reach
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Purses and bags on the ground with gum or medication inside
Have a leash or slip lead handy in case you need to guide your pup away from something quickly.
Thanksgiving with a Puppy Can Be Peaceful
With the right training and structure in place, your puppy’s first Thanksgiving can be a calm, joyful experience—not a disaster waiting to happen.
At Off Leash K9 Training Missoula, we help puppies build the foundation they need to thrive—during the holidays and all year long.
📞 Contact us at 406-946-3037 or fill out the form below to schedule a puppy training session or board & train program that sets your new dog up for lifelong success.
