Updated Version: 10 Lovely Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Christmas Traditions (2025 Refresh) 🐶❤️
Christmas is a time for family — and that absolutely includes our dogs. Bringing your pup into your festive traditions is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond, create meaningful memories, and make sure they feel just as cherished as everyone else.
Whether you’re baking, adventuring, or simply snuggling up together, here are some joyful, dog-friendly ways to make your pup part of your Christmas celebrations this year.
1. Bake Festive Dog Treats Together
There’s nothing more Christmassy than the smell of baking. Try making DIY dog treats like gingerbread or cinnamon apple biscuits using safe, natural ingredients. It’s a cosy activity that fills your home with wonderful festive scents and gives your dog something delicious.
Pro tip: Our Dog & Bond treat mixes make this extra easy — and you can add natural colours or fun shapes to give them a festive twist.
Safety reminder: Avoid chocolate, xylitol, raisins.
2. Have a Holiday-Themed Photoshoot
Create a magical memory with a festive pet photoshoot.
Matching pyjamas, cosy knit sweaters, baking gear — anything goes.
You’ll treasure these photos for years to come, and your pup gets to join in the fun.
Share your shots with fellow pet parents using #DogAndBondBakes or a festive hashtag like #DogsOfChristmas.
3. Host a Dog-Friendly Christmas Movie Night
Cuddle up with your dog for a Christmas movie marathon — The Grinch, Home Alone, Arthur Christmas, or dog-themed favourites like Beethoven.
Prepare a small dog-safe snack plate (plain popcorn, veggie bites, natural treats) and settle in for a warm, cosy night together.
4. Organise a Dog Christmas Party or Festive Meetup
Spread the holiday cheer by inviting friends — and their pups — for a little festive gathering.
Think:
healthy treats
simple games
a “best dressed” Christmas outfit contest
plenty of photos
It’s joyful, social, and guaranteed to be chaotic in the best way.
5. Gift Your Dog an Experience
At Dog & Bond, we’re all about experience, plus who has room for more toys!?You can think about checking out:
a winter adventure trail
a new scenic walking route
a warm spa bath and grooming session
a playdate with a favourite dog friend
Experiences deepen connection and create memories far more meaningful than objects.
6. Make a Dog-Friendly Christmas Dinner
Let your dog enjoy their own special festive meal. Dog-safe Christmas dinner ideas include:
plain turkey
sweet potatoes
green beans
carrots
Avoid onions, garlic, cooked bones, fatty trimmings, and rich gravies.
7. Give Back Together
Christmas is also a time for kindness. Consider:
donating food or blankets to a local shelter
sponsoring a dog for the holidays
volunteering (some centres welcome calm dogs for visits)
It’s a lovely way to share the season’s spirit and teach children empathy.
8. Create a Memory That Lasts
This time of year is perfect for capturing special moments.
Try:
a festive family portrait including your dog
adding a page to a year-in-review scrapbook
writing a short note about what your dog brought to your life this year
These small rituals become treasured keepsakes.
9. Enjoy Wintry Walks Together
Bundle up and take your dog out to enjoy the crisp winter air and Christmas lights. Visit a decorated park, explore a new trail, or simply wander around your neighbourhood’s festive displays.
It’s enriching, refreshing, and great for both of you.
10. Make a New Year’s Resolution Together
End the year with a resolution you can share — more walks, more baking, more playtime, or simply more mindful moments together.
Small commitments can deepen your bond throughout the coming year.
A Festive Season Filled With Love
Including your dog in your Christmas traditions is an easy way to celebrate the love, loyalty, and companionship they bring into your life. Whether you’re baking, adventuring, or simply relaxing together, these ideas will help make the season truly special — for both of you.
We’d love to see how you include your dog in your holiday celebrations! Tag us on Instagram with #DogAndBondChristmas or check out our festive treat kits to make your season paw-fect.