Make your dog part of the Christmas magic
You’ve got your advent calendar. The tree’s up. The Christmas playlist is on repeat. But what about your dog?
This year, why not create a Christmas countdown just for them? From tasty treats to cosy cuddles and festive games, the 12 Days of Dogmas is a fun and simple way to include your dog in the festive build-up — and it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
Whether you’re going all-out or just adding a little joy each day, here are twelve festive dog activities and ideas to spoil your pup as the big day approaches.
Day 1: The Christmas Countdown Begins
Start with something small and exciting. A festive chew, a new squeaky toy or even just a special breakfast will kick things off with a tail wag. Wrap it up for extra excitement — dogs love tearing paper just as much as we do.
Day 2: Cosy Night In
Snuggle up with your pup and make them the star of the evening. Put on a dog-friendly film, light a dog-safe candle, and grab a blanket. Bonus points if your dog has their own Christmas pyjamas or bandana.
Day 3: Taste of Christmas
Treat your dog to a festive snack made with seasonal flavours. Think turkey-flavoured treats, apple and cinnamon biscuits, or all-natural chews that feel like a special occasion. Just make sure it’s dog-safe and easy on their tummy.
Day 4: DIY Toy or Puzzle
Keep things creative with a homemade enrichment toy. Try hiding small treats in a rolled-up towel or repurpose cardboard tubes into a sniff-and-find game. It’s the perfect mix of fun and mental stimulation.
Day 5: Christmas Walkies
Turn your daily walk into a festive adventure. Choose a route with Christmas lights, put on their holiday collar or jumper, and snap a few photos. Some towns even have pet-friendly events or outdoor markets this time of year.
Day 6: The Stocking Stuffer
Add a little surprise to their stocking. A small chew, a ball, or even a festive tag for their collar. You can keep the stocking in view so they sniff around it in anticipation each day.
Day 7: Treat Bake Day
Get in the kitchen and whip up some homemade dog treats. There are loads of simple recipes using things like peanut butter, oats, and pumpkin. Let your dog lick the spoon (safely) and enjoy the fresh-baked fun.
Day 8: Give Back
Visit a local shelter and drop off some spare treats or toys. Or buy an extra gift and donate it in your dog’s name. It’s a meaningful way to spread festive cheer beyond your own home.
Day 9: Groom and Glow
Give your dog a little festive pamper session. A warm bath, a brush through their coat, and maybe a little dog-safe cologne or paw balm. They’ll look and feel ready for the big day.
Day 10: Toy Box Swap
Bring out a toy they haven’t seen in a while or rotate what’s in their toy box. Dogs love rediscovering their favourites, and it’ll feel brand new to them.
Day 11: Bedtime Bonus
Before bedtime, give them something soothing like a calming chew or their favourite plush toy. Add a few extra cuddles and a bedtime belly rub to really end the day right.
Day 12: Christmas Eve Surprise
The final day is here. Whether it’s a wrapped box of goodies, a personalised cake, or just a walk followed by a movie night, make the last day of Dogmas extra special. You could even write a card to your pup and pop it in their bowl.
Make it your own
There’s no right or wrong way to do the 12 Days of Dogmas. You can mix in gifts, games, treats, or just moments of calm together. The point is to slow down and share the build-up with your dog, because they’re part of the family too.
This Christmas, don’t just count down the days — make them count for your pup.
