Although dog training can take a back seat to other activities during the holidays, it's important not to let your pet become anxious or develop bad habits. While your family may enjoy a busy schedule, your dog prefers routine and predictability, and therefore may find this time of year to be stressful.

Traveling and having strangers in your home are also challenging for your pet, especially if he's not used to these activities. Try the following dog training tips to keep your pet safe and happy throughout the holiday season.

Preparing Your Home

When decorating your home for the holidays, keep your pet in mind. Christmas trees can be enticing to dogs, and whether you choose live or artificial, you must take safety precautions. Many pets will want to explore the entire tree area, perhaps even jumping up at the tree or trying to climb the trunk. To address this behavior, try a dog training redirection method, commanding your dog to sit. In the meantime, make sure your Christmas tree is stable and that fragile ornaments are out of reach.

Avoid using food items as ornaments, and never use tinsel, as it can get caught in a dog's intestinal tract, which can cut the intestine or cause a bowel obstruction. Be cautious about leaving presents under the tree as well, as they can be tempting even to pets that have completed dog training.

Certain household plants that are commonly seen around the holidays are poisonous or toxic to dogs. To ensure your pet's safety, refrain from decorating with holly, poinsettias and mistletoe. And, if you are gifted with a floral arrangement containing lilies, daffodils or amaryllis flowers, place them where your dog cannot reach them.

Get Ready for Visitors

Many households enjoy visitors during the holidays. It is a good idea to develop a dog training strategy for when guests arrive. You may want to try leashing your pet to stop it from bolting out the door and to keep its behavior controlled.

Or, you could try crating your dog or confining him to a separate room until everyone is settled. After the activity has calmed down, you can allow your pet to join the party.

It is wise to note, however, that as much as you love your dog and want it to be involved in your celebrations, your guests may not be so enamored. Dressed in their holiday best, they may not want to entertain your pet. If that's the case, consider boarding your pet, placing it with a pet sitter, or if he can handle it, have your dog wait out the party alone in a different part of the house.

Traveling with Your Dog

If you plan to take a trip with your pet, plan ahead. When traveling by car, use a crate or harness to keep your pets secured for the ride. Dogs can get motion sickness, so avoid feeding your pet while the vehicle is moving. Take breaks often, making sure your dog is well exercised.

When your travel plans include a plane ride, be sure to check the airline rules for pet travel to make sure you understand the restrictions. It will be easier for your dog if you don't offer food for six hours before departure. Regardless of how you travel, be sure to take along your pet's favorite bedding, bowls and toys, as they will help it feel more comfortable and secure.

Caring for your dog and providing for its needs during the holiday season is about preparation and planning. Some pet owners find this time of year to be ideal for enrolling their canine companions in a dog training or boot camp program. For little more than the cost of boarding, you and your pet can enjoy the benefits of expert, professional training.

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