Table of Contents
- 6 Tips to Prepare for Your Puppy’s First Christmas
- Puppy Christmas Dos and Don’ts!
- Puppy's First Christmas FAQs
- Puppy's First Christmas? Know These Before You Go…
I still remember how Christmas felt as a kid. All the twinkling lights, new scents, jolly music, yummy foods… it was magical!
It's indeed the most wonderful time of the year for most younglings, except perhaps for puppies.
Christmas for them can be overwhelming and even risky if you're not prepared!
In this guide, we'll discuss practical tips, safety advice, and holiday dos and don'ts when celebrating a puppy's first Christmas safely and joyfully.
RELATED: New Puppy Checklist: 15 Things You Must Do
6 Tips to Prepare for Your Puppy’s First Christmas
1. Puppy-Proof Your Home for the Holidays
The very first thing to do when preparing for your puppy's first Christmas is to puppy-proof your home, especially before decorating.
It's best if you have pet gates, crates, or anything that can stop your pup from going into places they aren't supposed to go.
Also, make sure the electrical cords are tucked away where they can't be reached.
Remember, most puppies are chewers. Prevent them from being electrocuted or starting fires by not giving them the chance to chew on wires.
Once your house is puppy-proofed, you can start planning for Christmas decorations!
RELATED: 20 Pet-Friendly Christmas Decorations Safe for Dogs
Here are some tips to remember:
Christmas Tree Safety
- Avoid tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages when eaten.
- Keep fragile ornaments and light strings out of reach.
- Choose sturdy, shatterproof decorations.
- Skip edible decorations like popcorn strings or candy canes.
- Use a heavy base or wall anchor to secure your Christmas tree.
RELATED: 8 Artificial Christmas Trees That Are Safe for Dogs
Holiday Lights & Candles
- Unplug lights when unsupervised. Remember, puppies love to chew cords!
- Use cord protectors or tape them down.
- Replace open-flame candles with LED versions.
RELATED: 10 Pet-Friendly Fall Home Decor Safe for Dogs and Cats
Toxic Holiday Plants to Avoid
Make sure to keep these holiday plants out of your dog's reach, or better yet, forego placing them inside your home, and use safer alternatives instead:
- Holly
- Poinsettia
- Autumn Crocus
- Amaryllis
- Ivy
- Yew
- Mistletoe
RELATED: The Ultimate List of Toxic and Safe Plants, Seeds for Dogs
2. Create a Calm, Cozy Space for Your Puppy
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be quite stressful for everyone, especially new puppies.
It's best to designate a “quiet zone” or a “calm space” for them as early as possible, complete with their bed, water bowl, toys, and other comfort items.
Train them to seek this place when things get loud, especially when holiday guests arrive.
You can also consider using a white-noise machine or playing soft holiday music in the background to help them relax.
RELATED: 8 Ways to Create a Calm Space for Pets During Holidays
3. Prepare Your Puppy for Visitors
Speaking of guests, you'll want to prepare your puppy for the visitors. Gradually introduce them to new people before the big day.
Socialization is one of the most important things to teach a puppy, and doing so early on will help them manage interactions better with other people and animals.
You should also start teaching them some holiday manners. Practice “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” before attending or holding parties.
Make sure to give them special Christmas dog treats for staying calm and being polite.
On the other hand, you should also talk to your guests, especially kids, before entering your home. Ask them to greet the puppy calmly, without squealing or crowding.
When things get too much, your puppy's “calm space” will come in handy, where they can retreat and relax in peace.
RELATED: How to Teach a Dog to Sit with Positive Reinforcement
4. Double Check Which Christmas Foods Puppies Can and Can’t Eat
Holidays mean food… lots of food. And one thing we know about most dogs is that they love to eat.
Familiarize yourself with foods that are safe for dogs and those that are toxic:
During the holidays, some safe snacks you can give your dog (as long as they don't have seasonings) are cooked, boneless turkey, mashed sweet potatoes or pumpkin, and small bits of apples or carrots.
Some holiday foods to avoid are chocolate, alcohol, bones, stuffing, gravy, grapes, and raisins. These are highly toxic and considered an emergency if your dog accidentally ingests them.
Also, don't forget to remind your guests NOT to feed your puppies anything without your approval!
Bonus Tip: Make Your Puppy Their Own Christmas Plate!
While preparing for your family's special holiday dinner, set aside a small portion of unseasoned food and create a Christmas plate for your puppy!
Mix safe items into a small holiday meal for them, such as turkey, veggies, and mashed pumpkin.
Just make sure to keep the portions small to avoid upsetting their tummy.
You can also cook them a special meal of their own with your leftover ingredients! Check out our Christmas dinner recipe for dogs below.
RELATED: Recipe: Christmas Dinner for Dogs Made with Leftovers
5. Consider These Fun (And Must!) Holiday Activities for Puppies
Take a Christmas morning walk
I know how busy it gets prepping for holiday celebrations, but it's important to keep up with your dog's daily regular schedule, especially their morning walks!
This helps burn off their energy, making them tired, relaxed, and not stressed, once your family and guests arrive.
Include your puppy in holiday photos
Taking holiday photos is a MUST, and letting your new puppy join in on the fun can make their first Christmas ever a lot more special.
Use props like Santa hats or scarves to make them much cuter and adorable, but only if they're comfortable.
Create a DIY advent calendar
Build your puppy's anticipation with a DIY advent calendar with special toys and treats!
You can hide small treats or toys behind each door or around the house. You can also purchase a ready-made advent calendar specifically for pets, like this one on Amazon.
Host a “Puppy gift exchange.”
If you're having the party at your house and if you're inviting fellow dog parents, you can trade toys with them for your puppies to enjoy!
Check out our guides for buying gifts this Christmas:
- 6 Best Christmas Gifts for Dogs: List of Ideas
- 10+ Best Christmas Gifts for Dog Parents
- 25 Unique Dog Christmas Cards for Animal Lovers
6. Travel Tips for Puppies During the Holidays
Is your new puppy going to travel for the first time with you for the holiday? Make sure to pack their essentials, such as food, water, toys, a crate, and vet records.
You should bring familiar items, such as a blanket or a shirt with your scent, to ease their anxiety during travel.
Make sure to plan rest stops for potty breaks, too, every 2 to 3 hours when going on a road trip with your puppy.
Lastly, as much as possible, avoid loud or crowded environments, especially if your puppy is still adjusting.
RELATED: Pet Travel in 2025: Is It Still Worth the Cost?
Puppy Christmas Dos and Don’ts!
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Supervise your puppy at all times around decorations | Leave wires, ribbons, or ornaments within reach |
| Offer safe puppy treats or chews as rewards | Feed them chocolate, grapes, or table scraps |
| Keep consistent feeding, play, and potty routines | Overstimulate with guests or excessive handling |
| Use positive reinforcement for good behavior | Scold for excitement or accidents — they’re still learning |
| Give them a safe gift (toy, bed, chew) | Wrap edible gifts under the tree where they can reach |
RELATED: 12 Tips for Caring for Newborn Puppies
Puppy's First Christmas FAQs
When can my puppy start celebrating Christmas safely?
Once your puppy is at least 8 weeks old and settled into your home, you can safely include them in Christmas celebrations!
Just keep things calm, avoid loud noises, and watch for choking hazards like ornaments or wrapping paper, to keep them safe and sound during the holidays.
Can I give my puppy gifts on Christmas Day?
Definitely! Toys, treats, or a cozy bed make great puppy gifts.
Just be sure everything is size-appropriate, non-toxic, and free of small parts that could be swallowed.
RELATED: Top 22 Safe Christmas Dog Toys
Should I take my puppy to family gatherings?
Sure, but only if your puppy is well-socialized, vaccinated, and in a safe, calm environment.
Large, loud gatherings can be overwhelming for young pups, so it’s often best to keep visits short or stay home if they seem stressed.
RELATED: 13 Dog Etiquette Rules To Remember When Visiting Family And Friends
Can I let my puppy play in the snow?
Yes, but supervise closely and limit time outside.
Make sure to avoid icy areas or salted sidewalks, and dry them off afterward to prevent chills or irritation.
How do I calm my puppy during fireworks or loud music?
Create a quiet space with soft bedding, toys, and white noise or calming music.
Stay with them, offer gentle reassurance, and consider anxiety wraps or vet-approved calming aids if needed!
Puppy's First Christmas? Know These Before You Go…
Celebrating your puppy’s first Christmas can be magical if you plan!
By puppy-proofing your space, maintaining routines, and watching what your pet eats, you’ll make the holidays both safe and fun for your pet.
Remember, new puppies need a calm, consistent environment to help them feel secure amid the holiday chaos.
Do you want to read more guides and tips about celebrating Christmas with dogs? Check out our recommended articles below!
