Every year when the fairy lights go up and the house starts to smell like cinnamon and pine, I get that same festive buzz — but truth be told, I think my dog feels it too.
Bella always knows when Christmas is coming. The minute the boxes of decorations come down from the loft, she’s there, tail wagging, nose in every bag, eager to “help.” Christmas just wouldn’t feel right without her.
Over the years, we’ve built a few little traditions that make the festive season extra special for her. They’re simple, but they’ve become part of what makes Christmas feel like Christmas in our house.
We Start December With a Dog Advent Calendar
Just like everyone else in the family, the dog gets their very own advent calendar. Every morning when I make a brew, she’s already waiting by the counter, tail wagging like crazy because she knows what’s coming.
I always make sure it’s filled with proper treats like the all natural gourmet sausage dog advent calendar, none of that cheap stuff. This year it’s packed with turkey and cranberry flavour dog treats that honestly smell good enough to eat myself.
It’s a small daily moment, but it sets the tone for the whole month — a little bit of joy before the day even begins.
Extra-Long Christmas Winter Walks
Between mince pies, wrapping, and Christmas movies, it’s easy to forget how nice a long winter walk can be. Over the holidays, make sure you head out for longer adventures.
There’s something magical about walking through frosty fields or quiet parks when the air’s cold enough to see your breath. Bella trots along in her little red jumper (she’s not a fan of the chill), and we usually bump into other festive dogs showing off their Christmas outfits too.
It’s become our peaceful tradition, time away from screens and chaos. Just us, exploring and soaking up that crisp December calm.
Christmas Dinner, Dog Edition
When we sit down for Christmas dinner, give them their very own special meal like a pack of Christmas Dinner dog treats. Or give them their own little plate, nothing fancy just a small plate of turkey, peas, and carrots.
It means she’s part of the feast without any of the foods that aren’t safe for dogs. Seeing them licking her bowl clean while the rest of us dig into ours always makes me laugh, the dog is definitely always the first one finished.
4. Taking Them With You to See Family
Whenever you visit family over Christmas, take the dog too. They loves it.
Always pack their bed so they've got a familiar spot to curl up, they'll spend most of the visit being fussed over by everyone (and “accidentally” catching the odd crumb from the buffet).
It wouldn’t be right leaving them behind. Having her there makes it feel like our Christmas, not just mine.
5. Sharing Favourite Moments
My partner takes far too many photos at Christmas, and yes, most of them are of the dog. But those little snapshots end up being some favourite memories.
Every year, make sure you share a few of them on social media — partly to spread a bit of joy, but mostly so you can look back on them. Scrolling through the years of festive photos always reminds you of how much she’s grown (and how much joy they've brought).
6. Ending the Day Cosy Together
After the wrapping paper’s been cleared and the last Quality Street’s been eaten, Bella always ends up curled up on her calming / anti anxiety dog bed. It’s her little haven — soft, safe, and warm.
That’s when I take a moment to slow down and just enjoy the quiet. They don’t care about the gifts or the fuss; they just wants to be close and cosy. And that’s what Christmas really, simple happiness, shared with the ones we love most.
7. Her Christmas Morning Gift
And finally… Christmas morning.
Once the kettle’s on and everyone’s gathered around the tree, Bella gets her own present — one of our Postman Pooch Christmas Gift Boxes. It’s filled with festive toys, tasty treats, and something new to play with.
Watching her tear into the paper, squeaky toy in her mouth, tail wagging like mad, that’s our favourite part of the day.
It’s not about spoiling them; it’s about including them. They are part of the family, and they deserve to share in the excitement too.
Final Thoughts
Making the festive season special for your dog doesn’t mean anything extravagant. It’s the small things, the extra walks, the tasty treats, the cuddles by the fire, that make it magical.
If you’re planning to do the same this year, I’d say start with the simple joys: an advent calendar, a few special treats, a gift box under the tree. Include them in your plans.
Because when that little tail starts wagging on Christmas morning, it’s hard to imagine the season without them.
Here’s to another Christmas full of muddy paws, squeaky toys, and wagging tails under the tree.
