How to deal with visitors at Christmas

Pretend you are out …………! Only joking.

On a serious not though, the idea of having family or friends round can be daunting if you have dogs, especially if you have young children or young children coming with them.

What can you do to set your dog up for success?

• One person assigned to supervise each dog and take responsibility for them

• One person assigned to supervise each child and take responsibility for them

• Have a safe space designated for the dogs. Use barriers or stairgates to manage dogs and people!

• Multiple treat stations around the house to reinforce calm behaviour

• Manage the arrivals by using the safe space or having dogs on harness and lead, and armed with treats

What can you do if you are the only person in the house and have visitors coming?

Set up a safe space for the dog(s), provide enrichment while you welcome your visitors and get them settled. Then introduce the dog(s) using a harness, lead and their favourite reinforcer, whether that is food, toy, play or affection. Assign adults to supervise children and when you are unable to supervise the dog(s), pop them in their safe space with some enrichment.

Happy Holidays!