Holiday Hazards

The holiday season brings cheer, warm meals, and bright decorations, but it can also create new risks for your canine. When families in Prince Albert start preparing for guests and putting up festive decor, it’s easy to miss the little things that might be unsafe for dogs. Something as simple as a dropped snack or a table ornament can lead to trouble if your pup gets too curious.

Most of us want our homes to feel calm and joyful this time of year. Knowing what to watch for is a good place to start, and it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. From holiday snacks to cold sidewalks, a few simple steps can make your holidays safer for pets. As a trusted dog trainer in Prince Albert, we’ve seen how quickly things can turn when hazards are overlooked. Keeping your dog safe starts right at home.

Holiday Food That Can Harm Your Canine

Holiday meals are a huge part of this season, but the food we enjoy doesn’t always mix well with dogs. Some ingredients and leftovers can lead to upset stomachs or, worse, emergency vet visits. With more food out and more people around, it’s easy for a canine to sneak something off a plate or catch a dropped treat before anyone notices.

Keep an eye out for common holiday dangers in the kitchen and dining room:

• Chocolate, even in small amounts, can be toxic to dogs

• Grapes and raisins can cause kidney problems

• Cooked turkey bones may splinter and hurt your dog if chewed or swallowed

• Fatty scraps can upset digestion and lead to inflammation

It might sound simple, but reminding everyone in the house, especially kids and visitors, not to feed the dog from their plates helps a lot. Having a safe spot for your dog during meals or setting aside treats that are made just for them can keep accidents from happening.

If you are concerned about your dog getting into danger, we provide customized obedience training programs. These programs teach skills such as “leave it” and prevent dogs from grabbing dropped food or unsafe treats, building real-world safety for your pet.*

Decorations That Don’t Mix with Dogs

All that sparkle and colour we love so much during the holidays? Dogs love it too, but not in the same way. Curious pups often treat decorations like toys. That shiny new ornament hanging low on the tree is basically an invitation to play, and it doesn’t take much for a playful tug or nudge to send it crashing to the floor.

These are some common decoration-related hazards to watch for:

• Glass ornaments that can break and cut paws or mouths

• Tinsel, which can cause serious stomach trouble if swallowed

• Open flames from candles, which are dangerous if knocked over

• Pine needles (real or artificial) and some plants like poinsettias, which can make dogs sick when chewed

If you’re decorating with a dog in the house, think about what you’re putting at their level. Pet-safe options, those made from softer materials or placed up high, are good choices. Battery-powered candles can still give off that cozy glow without the risk.

Busy Homes and Stressed-Out Dogs

The holidays often mean a lot of people in and out of the house. Noise, music, and changes to the usual routine can all add up fast for a dog, especially one that’s not used to big crowds or disruption.

Stress can show up in different ways. Some dogs might hide, bark more, act jumpy, or try to avoid contact. Others may attempt to slip outside through a door that didn’t close fast enough. If you're seeing signs that your dog is overwhelmed, it's time to give them a break from the action.

One of the easiest things you can do is set up a quiet spot just for them. That could be a crate with a blanket over it, a corner of your bedroom, or another quiet space where guests won’t go. Keep their bed, some toys, and water nearby. Let guests know not to follow or bother the dog there.

Dogs need routine to feel safe. Whenever possible, try to stick to your regular walk and feeding schedule. A little normalcy can help your canine feel more at ease, even when the house gets busy.

For families who want their pets to be calm around guests, we specialize in behaviour modification, providing techniques to ease anxiety and support positive responses to changing environments.

Cold Weather Concerns in Saskatchewan

By late November, winter has fully settled in across Prince Albert. It’s familiar, but it still brings challenges for dogs who are out for walks or spend time in the yard. Icy sidewalks and freezing temperatures can lead to sore paws, cracked pads, or even frostbite if dogs are out for too long.

Signs that your dog might be uncomfortable outside include shivering, lifting their paws while walking, or refusing to move forward. If the sidewalks are salted, that can cause an extra sting. Salts and de-icers can burn the skin or lead to stomach trouble if licked off.

There are a few ways to help keep your dog comfortable in the cold:

• Wipe down paws after walks to remove salt and prevent irritation

• Keep walks shorter and watch for signs that your dog may be cold

• Offer a soft, insulated place to sleep indoors away from drafts

Seasonal Safety, Trusted Support

The holidays in Prince Albert are a wonderful time to strengthen the bond you share with your dog. As parties, decorations, and colder weather introduce new challenges, staying alert and proactive ensures both you and your pet enjoy everything the season offers.

If you want your dog to reliably listen, behave safely in busy homes, or manage winter excitement, instructor-led programs at Arsenal Canine Academy can provide real results. Our certified trainer helps handlers and family dogs build the confidence and skills needed for a joyful, hazard-free holiday.

At Arsenal Canine Academy, we know how important it is to keep dogs safe and calm through the busy holiday season. From guarding against food hazards to managing stress when the house is full, a little extra awareness goes a long way. Our role as a trusted dog trainer in Prince Albert means we’ve handled all kinds of seasonal challenges and understand what dogs really need this time of year. For support or questions about your dog’s behaviour during the holidays, contact us today.