During the holiday season, providing dog-friendly Christmas decorations in your space means balancing festive cheer with safety and comfort for your four-legged companion. Just like taking your dog for a walk through a winter wonderland, the goal is to create an inviting space where they can play, relax, and enjoy Christmas with you.
Whether you’re decorating your home in Austin, TX, your apartment in Denver, CO, or your rental home in Atlanta, GA, this guide will offer practical tips and ideas to help you create a festive and safe environment that both you and your dog will love.
1. Keep your decorations secure and out of reach
Decorating for the holidays brings joy and sets the mood, but it’s equally important to consider the well-being of our beloved pets. As we adorn our homes with beautiful dog-friendly Christmas decorations, creating a space where they’re secure and out of reach ensures that our furry friends can enjoy the season safely.
Set up your tree with your dog in mind
When putting up your Christmas tree with your dog in mind, it’s essential to consider how your furry friend will interact with the decorations. Kate at Rescued by Training highlights the importance of planning ahead to keep both your pets and decorations safe.
“Holidays can be challenging for many pets, not just with all the visitors and novel smelling foods but with furniture being moved around to accommodate decorations and new, interesting things showing up,” says Kate. “Start by setting your pets up for success by keeping gifts off the floor. If you’re putting up a tree, keep fragile ornaments, soft, plushy ones or ball-like ornaments higher up on the tree to avoid being damaged with wagging tails or plucked off as toys. And ensure pets don’t have access to the live tree water basin, as it could be dangerous. You may even need to gate off the tree area with an x-pen or decorative fence if the water basin or the tree itself are too much of a temptation.”
Dog Dog Cat, a pet supply store located in South Lake Tahoe, CA, adds that choosing the right decorations can also make a big difference. “Deck the halls, but don’t let your pets deck the decorations. Beware of tinsel—it may look like a fun toy, but if swallowed, it can cause serious tummy troubles. And while mistletoe and poinsettias are festive, they can be toxic to pets, so keep them out of reach. Also, curious noses might want to nibble on electric cords or chew on glass ornaments, so consider using plastic ornaments down low and securing cords. Let’s keep the holidays merry and mishap-free for our furry friends.”
Toni Walker, the Managing Director of WAG&WOOL offers additional tips for creating a festive yet safe environment. “To create a festive but safe environment for your dogs, try using shatterproof ornaments, and avoid small decorations that can be easily swallowed. I recommend putting candles high up and out of reach to prevent accidental burns, and consider placing any tempting decor like edible garlands or chocolate treats well out of paw’s reach. This way, your space stays merry—and pet-friendly.”
Avoid these common holiday décor hazards
Sandra McCarthy Photography, a dog photographer based in Bow, NH, emphasizes that it’s essential to avoid decorations that could be mistaken for toys, or at least ensure they’re placed out of reach. “For example a stuffed santa or plush rudolph pillows might be mistaken for a toy by your pet and be promptly unstuffed/eaten.” She also advises against using decorations that your pup could view as edible, “Tinsel with its glassy, sparkly finish can be enticing for any dog and if ingested can cause havoc on their intestinal system. Also avoid popcorn garland as the smell will be enticing. Instead, use paper chains created by your kids or bows as a good alternative.”
Happy Dogs Boarding and Training in Laurel Springs, NJ, shares a similar sentiment. “Keeping your holiday decorations pet-friendly is key to ensuring a safe and happy season for K9 family members. Opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid using tinsel, which can be hazardous if ingested. Additionally, secure lights and cords to prevent curious pets from getting tangled or chewing on them.”
2. Have a safe and festive Christmas feast with your dog
While we ensure our home is decorated with dog-friendly Christmas decorations, nothing is impossible, so it’s still important to keep an eye on your furry friend to prevent them from sneaking harmful foods or knocking over festive decor.
Treat your dog safely and keep them away from human food
Brandi at Bark Pouch, known for their irresistible lickable treats, offers valuable advice for a safe holiday season when it comes to food. “Avoid enticing food decorations such as candy canes and stringed popcorn, which might encourage unwanted behavior with a side of digestive upset. And if you’re planning to share your dinner with your dog, skip spices and seasonings. A small, special piece of plain boiled chicken or cooked, cubed, and peeled unseasoned sweet potato are great alternatives to rich dishes humans often enjoy on holidays.”
Whisker Bones Supply, a dog treat bakery in Edwardsville, IL, adds to this by reminding us just how tempting holiday dinners can be for our pets, with all the delicious smells filling the air. “Holiday dinner is always the height of excitement and our pets love all the wonderful smells that waft from our kitchens. Feeding them ‘people food’ that typically contain salt, garlic and onion is unhealthy and could have negative consequences. Our bakers have come up with some delicious treats that are easy and pet safe, including dog-friendly peanut butter and oat balls, cranberry bites, sweet potato squares, and fruit and veggie bites.”
Use dog-friendly cleaning products
Jack’s Premium, a pet store in Dallas, TX, shares an often overlooked tip, especially during the buzzing holiday season. “Keep in mind when it is time to clean up after the Holiday Party; our pets who may have been put up, come out seeking all the scraps and crumbs on the floor (literal vacuum cleaners). Be cognizant when using cleaners on the counters and table tops, as many are toxic, that these toxic laden crumbs do not make it on the floor, to be consumed by our furry friends.”
3. Savor the Christmas scents worry-free
Holiday scents can add warmth and coziness to your home, but it’s important to ensure they’re safe for your pets. From candles to air fresheners, some fragrances can pose a risk to your dog’s health. By choosing dog-friendly Christmas decorations and scent options, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without the worry.
The Kruzzy Kollective, a pet lovers gift shop, advises, “When choosing homewares such as candles, diffusers or room sprays to create that festive atmosphere in your home or to give as gifts, make sure you choose toxic free products and be aware of the toxins that can be found in certain products such as, paraffins in waxes or phthalate and parabens in fragrances. Making the conscious effort to choose pet -friendly candles that are made from 100% soy wax, phthalate and paraben free that burn clean or room sprays that are made from gentle, non-toxic ingredients and diffusers made from a plant based eco-solvent will reassure you are making the right choices when preparing your home for the silly season.”
Specializing in pet-safe candles, Ophelia Candle Company, understands the importance of dog-friendly Christmas decorations and recommends pet-safe candles as a delightful alternative to the scent of a real Christmas tree. “We recommend skipping glass decor in the reach of pets or even having toxic plants in the home such as holly or mistletoe. Another toxin to avoid is christmas tree water. Instead, go for safer alternative plastic decor, non toxic plants like pine, cedarwood, or even rosemary. To eliminate the christmas tree water, consider switching to a faux tree to ensure your pet is not drinking the toxic water filled with bacteria, pesticides, and mold. You may even add a pet-friendly candle to bring in the smell of a real christmas tree. You’ll still get all the holiday looks without worrying if something is causing danger to your pets.”
If you’re not as fond of holiday scents but still enjoy the warm glow of Christmas lights, Cedar and Bark Photography, based in Vancouver, BC, recommends flameless candles. “To keep your holiday decor pet-friendly, start by choosing shatterproof ornaments and securing them well to prevent breaks and injuries. Skip toxic plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, opting for safer options like rosemary, pine, or faux greenery to avoid accidental ingestion. Place lights and electrical cords out of reach to prevent chewing hazards, and consider using flameless candles to reduce fire risks. Avoid small, edible decorations like popcorn garlands that might be tempting to pets. Finally, create a cozy, quiet corner where your pet can escape the excitement if they need a break.”
Photo courtesy of Bark Pouch
4. Build a peaceful retreat for your dog
The holiday season can be a stressful time for your dog with changes in décor, new smells, and the influx of guests. With so much happening around the house, it’s easy for your pup to feel overwhelmed. By incorporating dog-friendly Christmas decorations and creating a cozy retreat, you can help create a calming environment that allows your furry friend to enjoy the festivities without feeling stressed.
Pawz to Pose Photography, based in Dayton, OH, offers advice to keep your pup feeling at ease. “Start by setting up a safe space for your curious pup, such as a small playpen or a baby gate, to keep them away from the tree. Even with this precaution, it’s still important to avoid dangerous plants like poinsettias and steer clear of using harmful preservatives or flocked snow. Additionally, glass ornaments and tinsel can be tempting but are hazardous for pets. Opt for shatterproof ornaments and non-metallic tinsel to ensure your decorations are both festive and safe for your furry friend.”
Modern furniture store Room and Decor echoes this advice and says, “Make sure your decor is dog-friendly, avoid fragile decorations like glass ornaments or tinsel, which can be hazardous if ingested. Instead, choose sturdy, unbreakable decorations and create a cozy Christmas corner for your pets, like a soft bed near the tree, so they feel included in the festivities without any risk.”
As you set up your dog’s safe space, consider making it just as festive as the rest of your home. Botanical Bones, a small business in Asheville, NC offering superfood dog treats, offering all-natural superfood dog treats, shares, “When decking the halls, we always keep the doggos top of mind and have learned a few tricks to keep those tails wagging (and not knocking over your tree) Try hanging decorations up high, swapping toxic plants for pet-safe alternatives, and creating a special ‘Santa Paws Zone’ complete with festive toys and treats.”
A safe space for your dog is just as crucial when guests arrive and leave as it is during the celebration itself. Dog training services, Enjoy Your Dog, based in Downers Grove, IL, says “Having a safe space for your dog, where they can go if they are feeling overwhelmed by the sounds or guests in your home is important. Don’t assume they are enjoying the party as much as you are. It’s also helpful to have your dog in a safe spot as guests are arriving or leaving so you don’t take a chance of them rushing out the door. Overall, planning ahead can make the Holidays enjoyable for both you and your fur friend.”
5. Plan ahead for your greenery
Decorating with plants can bring a natural touch to your home, but it’s important to be mindful of their potential risks to your dog. Many plants, though beautiful, can be toxic if ingested. By choosing dog-friendly Christmas decorations and plant options, you can create a safe and festive environment for both you and your furry friend.
Avoid toxic plants
Heartprints Pets, a blog for pet lovers, shares, “Creating a pet-friendly home for the holidays is all about making choices that keep the season festive and safe. Choose non-toxic plants like the Christmas cactus or roses, and place breakable ornaments out of reach. Make sure your tree is anchored securely to prevent curious accidents, and cover cords to keep them out of sight (and away from eager teeth). With a few thoughtful touches, you can relax and enjoy a beautiful, worry-free season with your furry friends by your side.
Rachel Fusaro, a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist, adds her expertise, “Keep your holiday decor, and pets, safe this season. Baby gates and playpens protecting decor help provide a safe space for your pet. Don’t forget to avoid the popular toxic plants like lilies and poinsettias, and instead consider safer options like rosemary or faux plants for a festive vibe.”
Consider going faux
Sarah Deremer, a dogtographer based in Los Angeles, CA, shares her expert advice on dog-friendly Christmas decorating, including the option of choosing faux decor for a pet-friendly season. “Make sure to use durable, non-toxic decorations and make sure to keep fragile or dangly ornaments out of reach. Avoid tinsel and glass, as both can be harmful to your pets. Make sure your Christmas tree has a sturdy base to avoid any ‘catastrophes’, and make sure there aren’t any extra cords out for chewing. Instead of real candles, use battery-operated candles to have that cozy feeling without any fire risk. If you bring in any holiday plants, make sure they’re safe for pets, or bring in some faux greenery.”
6. Engage your pup in Christmas spirit
The holidays are a perfect time to capture your pup’s festive spirit, and what better way to preserve those precious moments than by scheduling a shoot with a professional dog photographer? Not only will you get stunning photos of your furry friend in their holiday best, but you can also reuse these images year after year for your dog-friendly Christmas decorations—whether on cards, gifts, or as framed keepsakes. The joy of looking back at your pup’s holiday photos will make each season even more special.
And to ensure your dog looks their absolute best for the shoot, consider dressing them in one of Amor Handmade’s artisan-crafted collars from Chiapas, Mexico. These collars, designed with both comfort and festive flair, are the perfect accessory for your pup’s holiday photo session. With vibrant colors and intricate designs, Amor Handmade collars provide a chic and distraction-free look, making them a wonderful choice for both the photo shoot and the holiday season ahead.
Keep your home festive with dog-friendly Christmas decorations: final thoughts
With a bit of planning and these dog-friendly Christmas decorations tips, you can create a festive atmosphere that’s safe and enjoyable for you and your pup. From securing ornaments to offering safe treats and providing a calm space, these thoughtful steps will help ensure your home is both beautifully decorated and dog-friendly. Happy Holidays!