The holidays are magical on their own, but holidays with dogs will bring all kinds of fun and special memories. Skip the holiday chaos while keeping the magic by trying these fun dog and kid activities.
Here are my favorite ways to make the holidays extra special with both kids and dogs.
1. Start With Kid and Dog-Friendly Traditions
Creating traditions that involve everyone makes the season feel inclusive and joyful.
Ideas to try:
- Holiday walk to look at lights: Bundle the kids, leash up the dog, and explore the neighborhood. Many dogs love the lights and excitement just as much as the kids do. Bonus points if you take a walk in the snow.
- DIY ornament day: Let kids make salt-dough ornaments shaped like paw prints or bones. Your dog can even help with a clean paw imprint!
- Matching holiday pajamas: Because nothing says “family photo” like dogs and kids in matching PJs. If your dog doesn’t wear pajamas, you might want to try a Christmas bandanna instead.
Want more? Check out this dog and kid-friendly holiday photo scavenger hunt!
2. Create a Safe, Calm Space for Your Dog
The holidays are often filled with gatherings and parties that can be a sensory overload for dogs. Kids running around, unfamiliar visitors, food everywhere. It can be a lot for even the best dogs to take.
Help your dog stay relaxed during the festivities with a quiet space. Putting your dog in a calm area doesn’t need to be a punishment. Instead, it can be a space to rest, recharge, and get ready for the hard task of being good with so many distractions. Start by:
- Setting up a quiet room or cozy corner with their bed.
- Using a gate or crate to keep your dog in (and the kids out).
- Giving the dog long-lasting chews or puzzle toys. Here’s my favorite!
Make sure to practice leaving your dog in their quiet space before your big party. Having a calm dog can help the Christmas parties go by without a hitch!
3. Holiday Food for Dogs
Kids love sharing treats with their furry sibling, but not all holiday foods are safe for dogs.
Safe holiday dog treats:
- Plain, cooked sweet potato bites
- A small amount of turkey (no skin, no bones)
- Dog-friendly holiday cookies (many recipes available using pumpkin, oats, or banana)
- Whipped cream (in moderation)
Make it extra fun by having the kids help bake a batch of homemade dog treats. They’ll be thrilled to serve something they made. You can even make some to share with your friends and family!
4. Make Gift-Giving Fun for All
Dogs and kids have this in common, they both love presents, especially when they get to unwrap them.
Gift ideas:
- A new squeaky toy
- A durable chew
- A cozy holiday sweater
- A treat-filled puzzle ball
Let your kids pick out or wrap the dog’s gift. Watching the dog tear into wrapping paper is holiday comedy gold. Just be sure they don’t eat the wrapping paper.
5. Capture the Moments
Holiday photos with dogs and kids are pure magic, messy, silly, heartwarming magic. You can make this extra special by trying this holiday photo scavenger hunt challenge.
Tip: Bring treats to bribe your dog. Lots of treats.
6. Plan Dog-Friendly Holiday Outings
Not every dog likes being around crowds of people, and that’s okay. But, if your dog likes being out and about, choose holiday activities that welcome them.
Some ideas:
- Outdoor Christmas markets and tree lighting ceremonies
- Pet-friendly Santa photos
- Winter hikes or beach walks
- Dog-friendly holiday events in your community
Kids love showing off their dog, and dogs love the smells, excitement, and Christmas cheer.
7. Teach Kids How to Include Dogs Gently
Holiday overstimulation can lead to over-excited play and problem behavior, so it’s a perfect time to help kids understand dog body language and boundaries.
Simple rules:
- Let the dog come to you for affection, and leave when all done.
- No climbing, wrestling, or pulling on tails/ears.
- Respect the dog’s food, treats, and quiet space.
These gentle reminders keep the holidays safe, calm, and happy for all.
8. End Each Day With Cozy Family Time
Any holidays with dogs and kids will get pretty hectic. But the best moments happen when you slow down together. Wrap up the day or week intentionally with a chance to relax and reflect. Here are some ways to make it happen:
- A family movie (doggy cuddles mandatory).
- Reading holiday stories together.
- A warm fire or candlelit evening with blankets and pets at your feet.
These are the memories that last.
Final Thoughts
Holidays with dogs and kids aren’t just special, they’re magical. They’re a mix of joyful chaos, unexpected laughter, and heart-melting moments you’ll cherish for years. With a little mindfulness and a lot of love, you can create a holiday season that celebrates every member of your family, paws and all.
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