Vet shares key changes in dog’s behaviour to look out for in December

Christmas is a time of joy and excitement, but a vet has warned to check in on your dogs amid the festive chaos. Houses can become flooded with friends and family as loved ones gather to celebrate with each other.

Christmas trees appear in homes, music is played and more food will be on show. While all pet owners want their pooches to join in the fun, some dogs may find this time of year hard. A vet has revealed how Christmas Day affects dogs and what support you can provide them.

Lucy Howells, Vet Nurse at Butternut Box. said: “Dogs respond strongly to changes in energy, routine, and environment.

“Christmas Day brings new smells, more food on show, increased noise, and unfamiliar people.

“Dogs sense this shift from the moment the day starts. They pick up on our stress, our excitement, and our rushed movements more than most owners realise.”

Christmas can stimulate dogs in a way that excites them but it can also test their self control and comfort levels. Many will love the attention and hustle and bustle, but others can feel unsure when their home becomes busy.

Understanding your dog is key, as Lucy highlighted important signs to look out for to show if they are enjoying themselves or might need a break.

Signs your dog is enjoying Christmas

• Relaxed body posture with loose movements

• Approaching family members for contact

• Showing interest in the activity without tension

• Calm breathing and steady tail movement

Signs your dog could be feeling uneasy

• Trembling or pacing – Lucy explained: “Pacing is a way for them to release tension or look for safety. Trembling signals heightened stress, especially when the home feels loud or unpredictable.”
• Avoiding guests – “If a dog repeatedly turns away from new people, moves to the edge of a room, or chooses a corner over interaction, they’re showing clear signs of social overload. Dogs protect themselves by creating distance when energy levels feel too high.”
• Hiding behind furniture – “This is one of the clearest signals a dog wants space. Hiding helps dogs manage overwhelming sensory input. It gives them control when the environment feels crowded.”
• Lip licking or yawning outside a tired context – “These subtle behaviours often go unnoticed. They’re early, gentle ways dogs communicate that the situation feels intense or confusing.”

Vet Lucy added: “The key to a smooth Christmas with dogs is balance. You need familiar routines, gentle structure, and a few festive additions that feel safe and enjoyable.

“Dogs settle best when they know what to expect, even on the busiest day of the year.”

Ways you can help your dog is to keep noise and activity controlled. It might feel difficult, but try to introduce your dog to guests one at a time and let them into the home without a crowded entrance.

You should also protect food preparation areas, as a sneaky dog might try to take snacks when no one is looking. Always have a safe and quiet place in the home that the dog can take themselves to if things get too much.

Dogs thrive on routine, so where possible, try to stick to the usual feeding and walking schedule.