Dear Miss Behavin’:
We have a new puppy who loves people but can get overwhelmed at times. It’s our turn to host Thanksgiving this year so we will have about 20 people at our house! How do we keep Franny from getting too frazzled?
We all know holidays can be stressful for many people— it’s no different for dogs! Some are social butterflies who thrive on extra attention, and some are wallflowers who prefer to watch football alone in the living room.
With a young puppy, you’re hoping to raise a social butterfly, so set Franny up for success by avoiding overwhelming situations, which can lead to negative associations with strangers or visitors. Don’t introduce her to the whole family at once, and don’t expect her to tolerate being picked up and kissed by all the aunts. Coach your family on how to play with her or hold her appropriately. Have them give her treats, throw her favorite toy, and show them her favorite places to be scratched.
Ensure that she has a quiet place that she can sneak off to if she does get overwhelmed. If Franny likes to be in her crate, use this as her “break room.” Make sure your family knows that Franny is “off the clock” when in her crate and should be left alone until she is ready to join the party. If you aren’t crate training, set up a room or quiet area in the house where she can get away.
Like many puppies, Franny may not know her own limits. If you notice Franny becoming overly excited or a little nervous, bring her to her break room and give her time to settle. Remember that the goal is for her to have a good day, and if her idea of a good day is enjoying a chew toy by herself, that’s what she should do.