Holiday Manners: How to Keep Your Dog Calm Around Guests and Gatherings

The holidays are full of laughter, food, and family — and for your dog, that can mean sensory overload. Between the ringing doorbell, delicious smells, and a steady flow of visitors, even the most well-behaved pup can feel overwhelmed. Whether your dog bolts to greet guests or hovers near the turkey, a little holiday dog manners prep can make all the difference.

Here’s how to keep your dog calm, confident, and well-behaved through Thanksgiving and beyond.

1. Practice Calm Door Greetings Before the Big Day

If your dog tends to bark, jump, or rush the door, start working on polite greetings now.

• Set up short practice sessions: Ask a friend to ring the doorbell while you reward your dog for staying calm - sitting, waiting, or simply not lunging forward.

• Reinforce calm behaviors: Praise and treat your dog the moment they make a choice that you prefer.

• Use management tools: Keep a leash or baby gate handy to set your dog up for success.

Practicing polite door manners helps your dog learn that calm behavior earns the best rewards - attention and treats. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), rehearsing calm greetings before guests arrive reduces anxiety and teaches dogs how to navigate excitement with confidence.

For extra help building consistent greeting skills, check out our Private Dog Training Lessons and get hands-on guidance from a certified LianaFit trainer.

2. Prevent Counter Surfing Before It Starts

Thanksgiving spreads are tempting for everyone - especially curious pups. To prevent counter surfing dogs, focus on proactive training and structure.

• Set your environment up for success: Keep food out of reach and trash cans secure.

• Redirect with purpose: Teach your dog a “go to your mat” cue while you cook and reward them for staying put.

• Avoid scolding: Catching your dog mid-surf only teaches them to sneak food when you’re not looking.

  
  

The team at MyWaggle recommends reinforcing calm behavior early and often, especially in high-distraction environments like the kitchen. This approach helps your dog associate self-control with positive outcomes.

For personalized guidance from home, explore our Virtual Dog Lessons — they’re perfect for busy households during the holiday season.

3. Manage Overstimulation During Gatherings

The noise and excitement of guests can easily lead to an overstimulated dog.

• Create a calm retreat: Set up a quiet room or crate with their favorite toy, bed, and chew.

• Offer enrichment: Puzzle toys, long-lasting chews, or frozen Kongs can help your dog relax while staying engaged.

• Watch for signs of stress: Lip-licking, yawning, and pacing often mean your dog needs a break.

Experts at PetMD, note that keeping a predictable routine and providing safe spaces are key to reducing stress during busy gatherings. Giving your dog the option to retreat prevents overstimulation and keeps everyone more relaxed.

4. Plan Ahead for Success

Meeting your dog’s needs before guests arrive is key to maintaining holiday manners.

• Exercise first: A long walk or quick training game can help your dog burn off extra energy.

• Set boundaries: Ask guests not to feed your dog scraps, no matter how cute those puppy eyes are.

• Stay consistent: Keep feeding and walking schedules as close to normal as possible.

Planning ahead reduces stress for both of you - and helps your dog feel grounded when the house gets busy.

5. Get Professional Help Before the Holiday Rush

If your dog’s excitement or anxiety feels like too much to handle, don’t wait until the week of Thanksgiving to start training. A few focused lessons can teach calm behaviors and prevent unwanted habits before they start.

Our Canine Fitness & Training Membership offers continued support to help you and your dog stay consistent all year long - so those holiday manners last well beyond December.

The Bottom Line

With patience, preparation, and positive reinforcement training, your dog can stay relaxed and well-mannered through all the holiday excitement. Your guests will thank you - and so will your dog.

Book your private lesson before the holidays to make this season stress-free for everyone. Visit LianaFit.com to get started today.

Holiday Dog Manners FAQs

1. How can I help my dog stay calm when guests arrive?

Practice door greetings ahead of time. Reward calm behaviors like sitting or waiting while guests come in, and use management tools such as leashes or baby gates for structure.

2. How do I stop counter surfing during holiday cooking?

Keep food out of reach and teach a “place” cue where your dog relaxes on a mat. Reward patience instead of punishing mistakes to build long-term success.

3. What are signs my dog is overstimulated during gatherings?

Look for subtle cues like yawning, lip-licking, or pacing. These mean your dog might need a quiet break in another room.

4. Should I let guests give my dog food or treats?

It’s best to plan ahead. Ask guests not to share table food, but offer approved treats if you want them to reward calm behavior instead.

5. When should I start training for the holidays?

Begin at least two to three weeks before gatherings. This gives your dog time to practice polite greetings and adapt to changes in the household routine.