The holidays mean gatherings with friends and family, but while you’re excited about hosting, your dog might experience the season differently.

Research shows that many dogs experience anxiety, and holiday parties can amplify stress even in normally social dogs.

The good news? With preparation, you can help your dog feel comfortable when guests arrive, turning what could be an overwhelming experience into a positive one.

Understanding Why Dogs Find Holiday Gatherings Stressful

Dogs thrive on routine and predictability, and holiday parties can disrupt both.

Dogs can also pick up on their owners’ emotions, so if you’re stressed about party planning or hosting, your dog will likely sense it too.

The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that visitors can upset pets, as can the noise and excitement of holiday parties.

Even pets that aren’t usually shy may become nervous in the hubbub that accompanies holiday gatherings.

Reading Your Dog’s Stress Signals

Before you can help your dog, you need to recognize when they’re uncomfortable.

Stress signals include a tucked tail, lowered body posture, a “whale eye” (showing the whites of the eyes), pinned-back ears, excessive lip-licking or yawning, whining, pacing, hiding, and panting when not overheated.

Some signs are often misinterpreted as excitement… hyperactivity and clinginess can both indicate anxiety rather than joy.

Preparation Makes All the Difference

Success starts well before your first guest arrives.

Exercise before the party:

Virginia Tech’s veterinary college recommends giving your dog extra exercise before visitors arrive.

A tired dog is often a calmer “host,” and burning off excess energy helps reduce anxiety when the doorbell starts ringing.

Create a safe retreat space:

A designated safe space is essential; a crate, bedroom, or quiet area far from hosting activity.

Set it up with comfortable bedding, familiar items, white noise or calming music, and water. Chewing is a stress reliever for dogs, so a long-lasting chew is also a good addition.

Take your dog there before guests arrive, especially during last-minute preparations.

This may also be an excellent time to give your pup a calming supplement to support them through their stress.

Managing Guest Arrivals

How people enter your home significantly impacts your dog’s stress level.

Managing guests’ arrivals can reduce stress for your dog. When possible, stagger entrances so they don’t all arrive at once; a sudden crowd can frighten even friendly dogs.

Consider separating your dog behind a baby gate during initial arrivals, allowing guests to greet them individually from the other side.

This makes introductions less overwhelming and prevents jumping.

Remind guests, especially children, beforehand how to interact with your dog.

The AVMA recommends asking guests not to feed human food to your dog and explaining that this is for their safety and health.

During the Gathering

Even if your dog is comfortable around guests, the AVMA emphasizes watching them closely when people enter or leave, as dogs can bolt out while you’re welcoming or saying goodbye.

Take a few minutes each hour to check on your dog with a treat, ear scratches, or belly rub. This reassurance helps them feel secure.

Recognize when your dog needs a break.

Socialization can be tiring even when dogs enjoy it, so respect their need to retreat to their safe space without forcing interaction.

What About Food?

Holiday gatherings come with food temptations that can be dangerous for dogs.

The AVMA is clear: keep people food away from pets and instruct guests to do the same.

Remind visitors that table scraps aren’t just unhealthy, but that some foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and fatty meats can be toxic or trigger serious health issues like pancreatitis.

When to Consider Additional Help

If your dog shows severe anxiety, such as excessive drooling, destructive behavior, or inability to settle down, talk to your veterinarian.

Virginia Tech’s veterinary college notes there’s nothing wrong with using medications during the holidays if your pet is susceptible to anxiety.

For dogs with aggression concerns or fear that pose a safety risk, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends consulting a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.

The Bottom Line

Successful holiday hosting with dogs in the home requires understanding their perspective and preparing accordingly.

With proper preparation, clear guest boundaries, and respect for your dog’s comfort level, you can create gatherings that work for everyone… two-legged and four-legged family members alike!

Your Pets are our Priority!

At the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), our number one priority is to promote the health and well-being of your pets.

That is why we created the NASC quality programs and the NASC Quality Seal, which helps you identify animal health and nutritional supplements that come from responsible suppliers committed to producing the highest quality, most consistent products available.

Visit our website to learn more and to see a list of NASC members who have earned the Quality Seal.