The holiday season is a time of joy for many of us, but it can be a source of stress for our pets. With loud noises, unfamiliar faces, and disruptions to their daily routines, dogs (and even cats!) often feel overwhelmed. As much as we enjoy the festivities, our furry friends might not share the same excitement. But don’t worry! There are simple ways you can help reduce holiday stress for dogs and cats, so they feel safe and comfortable throughout the season.

Anxiety Symptoms and Signs in Pets

The most common anxiety symptoms in animals are behavioral. For example, when faced with a strange situation or person, your dog lets you know they’re uncomfortable or scared by barking or backing away from the stranger.

Common signs include:

• Backing away from a stranger
  
  
• Aggression
  
  
• Destructive behavior
  
  
• Restlessness
  
  
• Barking or meowing
  
  
• Eliminating in the house

Your pet’s body language is a huge clue as to how they’re feeling. By learning the difference between their behavior when they’re comfortable and when they’re scared, you’ll be able to figure out triggers for their anxiety and when they might need some space or help to calm down.

Common Holiday Stressors for Dogs

The holidays bring a mix of excitement and chaos, and unfortunately, not all of it is pet-friendly. Here are some of the most common stress triggers for dogs (and cats too):

Loud Noises

The sounds of fireworks, party poppers, music, and even doorbells ringing can be startling and frightening for your pets. The sudden bursts of noise might cause anxiety or even fear-based behaviors.

Unfamiliar Guests

The influx of visitors, whether they’re family members or friends, can be a source of stress for pets who aren’t accustomed to so many new faces. Dogs and cats often find it difficult to adjust to strangers in their space, especially if they’re not used to large groups.

Disrupted Routines

Holidays often mean changes to feeding times, walking schedules, and even sleeping arrangements. Routine is important for pets, and a disruption can lead to confusion and anxiety. For many animals, consistency brings comfort, and any shift from that can lead to stress.

Travel and New Environments

For families who travel during the holidays, pets may find themselves in unfamiliar places—whether it’s a car ride, a new home, or a pet-sitter’s house. Being away from home can cause anxiety, especially for dogs or cats who thrive on familiarity.

Tips for Reducing Holiday Stress

While we can’t avoid all the holiday festivities, we can take steps to ensure our pets feel safe, secure, and calm throughout the season. Here are some practical tips for reducing holiday stress for dogs (and cats):

1. Create a Safe Space

Designate a quiet, comfortable space in your home where your pet can retreat to if the noise or activity becomes overwhelming. This could be a crate, a cozy corner with their bed, or even a separate room. Keep it stocked with their favorite toys, bedding, and a water bowl, and encourage them to spend time there when things get too hectic.

2. Stick to Regular Routines

Try to maintain as much of your pet’s regular schedule as possible, especially for meals and walks. If there are interruptions, such as guests coming over, try to make sure your dog or cat still gets their usual time for exercise, play, and rest. Keeping their routine intact can help reduce stress and create a sense of stability.

3. Offer Comforting Sensory Stimulation

Some pets may find comfort in calming scents, sounds, or even visual aids. Consider using a pet-safe diffuser with soothing lavender or chamomile water (just be sure they’re safe for pets), or play calming music to drown out loud noises from outside or the festivities inside.

4. Introduce New People Gradually

If you know there will be a lot of new people coming and going, try to gradually introduce your pet to the visitors beforehand. This gives them a chance to adjust to new scents and faces without the overwhelming surprise. If you’re hosting a holiday party, consider setting up a “meet and greet” time early on, rather than surprising your pet with a room full of strangers.

5. Maintain Consistent Exercise

Holiday time doesn’t have to mean skipping walks or playtime. In fact, exercise is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety. If you can, make time for daily walks, play sessions, or even some quiet time with your pet. This can help them burn off excess energy and feel more relaxed.

Comforting Supplements for Stress Relief

For some pets, the holidays may require an extra layer of comfort to help them cope with stress. Natural supplements can offer support in managing anxiety. One such product is NHV’s Lesstress or Matricalm, a calming herbal supplement designed to help soothe anxious dogs and cats. Lesstress and Matricalm helps address stress-related behaviors, such as excessive barking, pacing, or hiding, by supporting a calm and balanced mood. These kinds of supplements can be a great addition to your pet’s holiday routine, ensuring they’re as relaxed as possible throughout the season.

How NHV Supports Your Dog’s (and Cat’s) Holiday Well-being

We’re here to help pet parents make the most of the season, while also ensuring that pets have the calm, relaxing environment they deserve. No one should have to face the stress of the holidays alone—not even our four-legged family members!

Final Thoughts

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness, but it can also bring about stress for our pets. By understanding common stressors and taking proactive steps to help your dog (and cat) feel more comfortable, you can ensure they stay calm and happy throughout the season. Whether it’s creating a safe space, sticking to their routines, or offering calming supplements like NHV’s Lesstress or Matricalm, you can make the holidays a little easier on your furry friend.