7 Ways to Give Your Dog a Very Happy Christmas (and most of them won’t cost you a penny)

Here are some ideas to give your dogs the Christmas Day they deserve.

• Routine

Just because you are planning a Champagne brunch, it doesn't mean your dog will be happy to skip breakfast. Maybe give one member of the family responsibility for checking the dog's not been forgotten, and not getting into trouble stealing food that might be dangerous, or chewing presents left lying around.

• Choice

Some dogs love being part of any excitement going on. Others, not so much. Make sure your dog has access to a quiet comfortable corner if they need a break.

• Food Treats

Food is a large part of our Christmas Day, don't leave your dog out. Perhaps start their day off with a frozen stuffed Kong. It will keep your dog happily occupied while you get on with your own food preparation!

• Presents

Let your dog unwrap their own presents – like toddlers, for dogs the paper and boxes they come in can be as rewarding as the contents. 

Don't forget crackers. The inner tube from a kitchen roll filled with a few treats or a toy wrapped up in paper twisted at the ends, makes a Christmas cracker fit for any dog to tug, chew and eventually eviscerate.

• Your Attention

Whether it's playing games or spending time stroking and talking to them, take the cue from your dog – it’s your attention that your dog really wants (although, that piece of turkey you mentioned would be good too ...).

• Go On a Sniffari

Your dog's main sense of the world comes through their nose. Today in particular, let your dog be a dog. Don't hustle them along on a walk – perhaps let them choose the route and give them time to sniff the environment, the trees, the lampposts.

• Entertaining Themselves

Give your dog something to keep their brains and noses enjoyably occupied. There are any number of puzzle toys, snuffle mats, treat dispenser balls and electronic devices available. Or you can make your own. This is where the recycling – the acres of wrapping paper and empty boxes – come into their own: it can be as simple as hiding treats in crumpled up paper on the floor or in a large box.

Wishing all of you and your dogs a Happy Christmas and Very Best Wishes for the New Year.