Tails, Treats, and Thanksgiving: How to Celebrate with Your New Puppy
Tails, Treats, and Thanksgiving: How to Celebrate with Your New Puppy
As you celebrate Thanksgiving with loved ones, there's one special addition that’s sure to make this holiday even sweeter—your new puppy! Welcoming a furry friend during the holiday season brings extra joy (and maybe a little chaos) to the mix, but every moment is worth it. Whether you've just brought home your puppy or are getting ready to, The Family Puppy has a few tips to make this Thanksgiving extra memorable for you, your family, and your new canine family member.
Give Thanks for Puppy Milestones
While your puppy doesn’t know it’s Thanksgiving, it’s a great time for you to look back on how far they’ve come since joining your family. Maybe they've finally figured out “sit” or made it through their first crate training night without a fuss. Take a moment to appreciate these little victories—whether it’s their wobbly first steps or that irresistible look they give you when they want attention. These milestones add a deeper sense of joy to your holiday, reminding you just how quickly they grow up.
Create a Safe Space for Your Puppy
Thanksgiving can be a lot for your new pup—between the constant flow of guests and tempting smells from the kitchen, it’s easy for them to feel overwhelmed. Give your puppy a quiet spot to escape the chaos. Find a cozy corner with their favorite toys, a soft blanket, and maybe a special Thanksgiving treat (just make sure it's puppy-safe!). This little retreat will help keep them calm and out of trouble while you’re busy juggling the holiday festivities.
Puppy-Safe Thanksgiving Treats
It’s hard to resist those pleading puppy eyes while you're enjoying Thanksgiving dinner, but not everything on your plate is safe for them. Foods like turkey bones, onions, and sugary desserts are off-limits for pups. Instead, let your dog join in the holiday fun with their own safe treats! A bit of plain sweet potato, green beans, or a small bite of unseasoned, skinless turkey can give them a taste of the festivities without the risks. You can even find some easy DIY dog treat recipes online to whip up something special just for them!
Puppy Play Breaks: Keep the Chaos in Check
Amid the Thanksgiving hustle, your energetic pup might need some extra attention to avoid getting restless. While the turkey’s in the oven or guests are chatting, take a few moments to engage your puppy. Whether it’s a quick game of fetch, a spirited tug-of-war, or a walk around the yard, these little play sessions will help burn off some of that puppy energy. Not only will it keep them entertained, but it’ll give you a breather from the holiday chaos too.
Turn Thanksgiving into a Training Opportunity
Thanksgiving is a perfect time to work on your puppy’s manners in a real-world setting. With all the guests and activity, it’s a great chance to reinforce good behavior—like teaching them not to jump on visitors or practicing a solid “sit” before getting a treat. The new faces and bustling environment provide natural training moments, helping your puppy get used to social situations while learning to stay calm. Use the holiday to make learning fun, so your pup builds positive habits that stick.
Involve Your Puppy in Post-Dinner Relaxation
Once the turkey’s been devoured and the hustle winds down, invite your puppy to join in the laid-back part of Thanksgiving. Whether they’re snuggled next to you during a movie marathon or stretched out by your feet as you chat with family, these calm moments are a great way for your pup to settle after a busy day. A belly rub or gentle scratch behind the ears is all it takes to make them feel included in the cozy end-of-day vibes. It’s the perfect way to help your pup feel like they truly belong.
At The Family Puppy, we know that Thanksgiving is all about celebrating the things that bring us joy, and your new puppy is certainly one of them! From training opportunities to making special memories, we hope these tips help you create an unforgettable holiday with your furry family member. Wishing you and your pup a happy, safe, and love-filled Thanksgiving from all of us at The Family Puppy.