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Snow outside, a cozy fire going, time off work and all the family gathered around with a box with a ribbon...
Let's face it, the holidays are full of sparkle, excitement, and generosity — so it’s easy to feel like Christmas is the perfect time to welcome a new dog into the family. But the festive season is simply not the time to do so.
I'm not here to burst your bubble, just to raise some awareness. Before saying “yes” to a new furry family member, consider the following.
Lessons from Kennels
This is a subject I am passionate about due to my past working in Rescue Kennels and seeing hundreds and thousands of dogs abandoned and left for dead after Christmas time. I have witnessed truly terrible, depressing things that I wouldn't wish on anyone, especially not dogs who only want to love their people. I write this blog because I have seen firsthand how many families underestimate the long-term responsibility and commitment of dog ownership. The kennels I worked for has this registered trademark that is still so true today:
“A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®.”
If you want, you can watch a very powerful advert they released here. Be warned though, you may need some tissues for those tears.
The point is, every dog deserves a stable, loving home. They require consistent care, and a lifetime of attention, they are not just fleeting festive entertainment. Puppies and adult dogs alike thrive when their guardians commit to years of training, love, and understanding — not just the sparkle and allure of the holiday season.
What else should be considered before buying or adopting a dog for Christmas?
Holiday Stress is Real for Dogs
If you read my previous blog "Holiday Serenity - Safety Tips for Dogs" then you'll have some insight into this section. Loud music, guests, decorations, and shifting routines can be sensory overload for dogs, especially a new pup - no matter their age!
Dogs benefit from routine, particularly puppies and sensitive dogs. They need calm, not chaos.
Bringing a dog home in December can increase stress for both dog and guardian. When the holiday spirit dies down and reality sets in, the winter blues arrive quickly.
If you'd like more tips about supporting a dog through the holiday season, be sure to check out my Holiday Serenity Blog Post!
Time, Attention, and Training Needs
Dogs need structure, commitment and care. Puppies in particular need daily supervision, training sessions, socialization, and enrichment.
Here are some necessary questions to ask yourself some key questions before you welcome a dog to your family:
- Am I committed to this dog?
- Do I realistically have the time, space and resources a dog needs?
- Will I have enough time to build routines and support my dog’s emotional needs?
- Am I prepared for the financial commitment of a new dog?
- If an emergency vet visit happened over the holiday period, would I be financially ready?
- If an emergency vet visit is needed another time, can I afford it?
- Can I comfortably afford essentials like food, bedding, toys, chews, collars, leashes?
- Can I put time into training?
- If needed, can I afford ethical training support?
- Can I provide for this dog fully, without cutting corners on their wellbeing?
- Did I research this dog's breed, or do I want them because they are cute?
- Does this dog’s personality and energy level truly fit my lifestyle?
- Have I considered the dog’s breed traits, sensitivities, and daily needs?
- Would a high-energy puppy struggle with the busy holiday period?
- Can I afford care if I need to travel?
- Would a sensitive, shy, or older dog need a quieter, more predictable environment than I can offer right now?
Holidays bring a lot of whimsy and decisions/wants that often are rose tinted. Will the dog fit into your life well? If not, are you prepared to make adjustments? Dogs still need exercise and stimulation on days when you have to work or are sick. Thinking ahead past the holiday period can help you make a better decision for you and the dog in question.
Alternatives to a Christmas Dog
If the timing isn’t ideal, there are still festive ways to bring joy without overwhelming a pup or dog.
- Consider gifting an ethical dog book for education.
- Consider gifting a starter kit. E.g. - leash, toy, bed etc.
- Sponsor a rescue dog: donate in someone’s name.
- Volunteer with a local shelter.
If you still want to adopt, wait til later in the New Year. It will be more realistic and a calmer environment. It will be easier to plan, establish routines and ultimately be less stress for both the pup and your family.
On that note, here are some S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Mindset for Holiday Adoptions:
Before adopting or gifting a dog, consider:
Safety: Will you be reliable & committed? Can you provide a secure, calm environment from day one?
Empathy: Can you tune in to your dogs signals and adjust your celebrations?
Regulation: Can you balance physical exercise, mental stimulation and decompression time?
Exploration: Will your new dog have safe opportunities to learn and explore?
Nurture: Can you commit to daily care, love, and ethical guidance?
Empowerment: Will your dog be able to make choices safely, even during the holidays?
Remember, the holidays can be magical, but adopting a dog is a long-term commitment, not a holiday surprise. Afterall...
“A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®.”
By pausing, planning, and approaching adoption with compassion and mindfulness, you give your future dog the best start possible.
For supporting your dog when they get home, check out Blackwing Farm Essences here. Don't forget to use my discount code: UltiMutt10
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