How to Celebrate New Year with Your Dog

New Year’s Eve is filled with exciting festivities – fireworks, music, parties – but if you’re a dog owner, you know these celebrations might not always be as fun for your dog. Loud sounds, new environments, and lots of people can lead to stress and anxiety for dogs. But don’t worry! With a little planning, you can make the New Year a great experience for both you and your pup.

This guide will show you how to celebrate New Year’s Eve while keeping your dog safe, happy, and included. Whether you’re throwing a house party, heading out, or staying in for a cosy night together, we’ve got tips to make the festive season unforgettable for you and your pup!

Dogs are family, and they deserve to be part of the celebration! Including your dog in New Year’s activities builds trust and strengthens your bond. Plus, ensuring that they’re comfortable and happy helps to avoid unnecessary stress for both of you.

From small gestures (like special doggy treats) to bigger events (a pup-friendly celebration), celebrating together also means you create unique and memorable moments with your four-legged companion.

Fireworks can be one of the most stressful parts of New Year’s Eve for dogs. According to the RSPCA, 62% of dog owners report a negative reaction to fireworks from their pets. Plan ahead by creating a quiet, safe space for your dog to retreat to if things get overwhelming.

• Use familiar items like their bed, blankets, and favourite toys in this space.

• Play calming music or white noise to help drown out loud noises.

• Use a calming supplement to support a sense of calm

• You can also try pheromone diffusers (available at pet stores) to keep your dog relaxed.

Who says humans get all the fancy food? Whip up a special meal or treat for your dog to enjoy on New Year’s Eve! There are tons of healthy, dog-safe recipes for cookies, pupcakes, or even homemade doggy ice cream.

If cooking isn’t your thing, treat your dog to some premium dog treats available online or at your local pet store. Choose something special that they don’t usually get.

Why not plan a small party that’s fun for your dog and their friends? Invite other dog owners (and their dogs!) over for a relaxed, dog-friendly gathering.

Here’s how to pull off the paw-fect pup-party:

• Set up a doggy play zone with interactive toys and activities.

• Provide treats and water stations for the four-legged guests.

• End the evening early so everyone can get their pups home before the fireworks begin.

Starting the day with a nice, long walk or a play session at your local dog park is a great way to celebrate. A tired dog is a happy dog!

Exercise helps release energy and anxiety, leaving your pup more relaxed for the evening ahead.

If there’s a safe location nearby (e.g., a dog-friendly beach or open field away from crowds), consider watching the sunset with your dog as a quiet and meaningful way to welcome the New Year.

Not keen on loud parties? Have a quiet night in with your dog instead! Set up a comfy area in your living room, grab some blankets, choose a few dog-themed movies (think Beethoven or 101 Dalmatians), and snuggle up with your best buddy.

Top it off with some popcorn for you and treats for them – it’s cosy and stress-free for both of you!

Even with all the fun plans in place, it’s important to take extra precautions during the fireworks.

• Keep your dog indoors. Never leave them outside during fireworks—it’s too easy for frightened dogs to run away.

• Use a secure collar and ID tag in case they do manage to slip out.

• Stay close and offer reassurance if they seem anxious. However, avoid overreacting as it could reinforce their fear.

You can also consult your vet about calming sprays, anxiety jackets, or supplements if your dog struggles a lot with loud sounds.

Who says dogs can’t stay up till midnight? If your dog is comfortable and awake by the time the clock strikes 12, give them a big cuddle, a treat, and maybe even share a toast (dog-safe ‘champagne’, of course!).

This creates a special memory and lets you welcome the New Year together!

Making dogs a part of your celebrations is more than just a one-time event – it’s about building traditions that both of you look forward to every year. Whether it’s baking them a yearly New Year treat or taking a specific walk every 31st December, these little rituals become special for you and your pup.

The New Year is an opportunity to bond and make memories, and who better to share it with than your loyal canine companion? With these ideas, you can keep your dog safe, happy, and part of the fun this holiday season.

Now it’s time to start planning! Which idea will you try first? Whether it’s hosting a party, baking pupcakes, or snuggling in for a movie marathon, make sure to put your pup front and centre.

Wishing you and your dog a pawsome New Year full of love, laughter, and tail wags!