Safe Gifts, Smart Toys & Keeping Holiday Overwhelm in Check for Your Dog

The week before the holidays tends to be pure chaos — last-minute shopping, gifts that need assembing, torn wrapping paper, and packages that need to be mailed to far away friends and family.

For reactive dogs, all this upheaval to their usual schedule is more terrifying than exciting.

Let’s make sure this celebratory week stays fun, safe, and low-stress for your anxious or easily overwhelmed pup.

Gift & Toy Safety Every Dog Owner Should Know

Dogs, especially high-arousal or anxious ones, learn about the world with their mouths first and their brains second. That means the holiday clutter we barely notice can be dangerous or toxic for them.

Keep an eye out for common hazards:

• Batteries (hidden in tons of kids’ toys)

• Tinsel, ribbons, bows, and string

• Chocolate or treat boxes left within reach

• Craft supplies

• Snow globes (some contain antifreeze)

• Small toy pieces (choking and blockage hazards)

• Wrapping paper, tape, and packaging bits

A quick “floor sweep” each morning can prevent a lot of worry — and an emergency vet visit.

How to Choose Dog-Friendly Gifts That Encourage Calm

Since this is Archie's first Christmas, I'm planning to make it memorable for him. If you’re also treating your dog to something special — or if family members like to bring them gifts — choose items that promote confidence, calm, and focus.

Great options include:

• Lick mats

• Snuffle mats

• Long-lasting chews

• Slow-feeders

• Plush squeaker toys

• Puzzle feeders

• Treat-dispensing toys that encourage problem-solving

• Anything you and your dog can do together like a trick training book!

If your dog is prone to getting overexciting, avoid toys that are loud, have bright or flashing lights or make prey-like sounds.

When buying problem-solving toys, make sure to get the appropriate difficulty level so your dog doesn't get frustrated.

Keeping Holiday Overstimulation in Check

As we get closer to the big holiday celebrations, sensitive dogs often start feeling edgy. Instead of hoping they “tough it out,” gently build calming moments into their routine:

• Quiet walks in low-traffic areas

• Short training sessions focused on calm skills

• Extra decompression time inside or outdoors

• Sniff-heavy enrichment activities

• Consistent routines (if your schedule is chaotic, try for consistent morning and bedtime routines)

A dog whose emotions are well regulated feels safe and makes good choices.

Need Support This Week?

If you’re feeling unsure about how your dog will handle gifting, visitors, travel, or schedule changes, I’m here to help! A quick virtual session or a personalized plan will make the holidays manageable again.