The holidays tend to be a hectic time for everyone. Your dog can feed off your excitement, activity and stress level causing unwanted behavior. A very common behavior is exuberance when company arrives.
Be sensitive to the fact some people are uncomfortable, fearful, or just don’t like dogs in general. With a multi-dog household people can feel overwhelmed; large dogs can knock people over; small dogs can get underfoot. All can result in injury, dirty or damaged clothing, and cause packages or food to be dropped.
The best approach is to take control of the dog(s) before you open the door to let your guests in.
Various options include:
1. Train your dog to SIT/Stay patiently near the front door but with enough space for people to comfortably step in. Once the dog is behaving calmly, they can be released to greet the guests.
2. If your dog isn’t trained, use a leash to control them while answering the door so you can manage any problems that arise. Alternately, enlist help from a friend or family member to control the dog on leash.
3. In some cases it may be best to manage the situation by simply putting your dog away in their crate, kennel or another room prior to the arrival of your guests.
Keep in mind the reward for the dog is that people come in and give them the attention they want. Start practicing early or consider hiring a professional to train your dog in time for the holidays.
Pauline Houliaras, CPT, is a resident of Canton, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and co-owner of Doghouse Girls, a local dog walking, training and pet sitting service.
Co-Author, Kirk B. Halma, CPT, operates a dog training service in Woodstock, IL. [www.k-9motivation.comv v]
