12 Fun and Safe Ways to Include Dogs in Holiday Traditions

Last updated on October 22nd, 2026 at 04:44 pm

I bet it’s not surprising that most dog parents include their dogs in holiday traditions. I am one of those proud dog moms who always includes my dog, Henry, in every festive celebration.

But by the time you’re done shopping, cooking, going to parties, decorating, and the list goes on, you may not be able to think of new ways to include your pup in the season. There are a few ideas that you and your buddy will love. Heck, they could even become new holiday traditions. 

Henry loves anything I do to include him in what I’m doing, regardless of the holiday. During the festive season, it feels like it should be a little bit more special. With this in mind, let’s dig in and discover some fun ways to wrap your pup in the merry season.

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Budget Tip:

It generally doesn’t cost much to have a special moment with your dog during the holiday. But the memories you create are priceless. Your dog will love them and so will you. That’s a huge win-win for you and your pup.

Ways to Include Dogs in Holiday Traditions

Fun pup-approved holiday traditions are generally easy. My Henry loves them. I bet your buddy will as well. Here are 12 of the best dog holiday traditions you may want to try this festive season. 

1. Make easy DIY dog treats with your pup’s favorite flavors

It’s a bit of easy holiday cheer your buddy will love. This free tool creates simple dog treats based on your pup’s favorite flavors.

Of course, avoid foods that are toxic to dogs so you make a safe and yummy cookie for your buddy. You can find a full list of hazardous foods to skip here.

2. Create a DIY toy for your pup

Nothing says the holiday celebrations are at hand like a festive dog toy. Find great and affordable homemade dog toys here.

3. Craft a homemade sweater for your buddy

A cute handmade sweater can help keep your pup warm during the holiday festivities. Learn how to create an easy homemade dog sweater here.

4. Snuggle with your furry companion 

Watching a holiday movie, like A Charlie Brown Christmas, with your furry canine and enjoying a cuddle makes for a great holiday activity. It’s one of my festive traditions with Henry. 

5. Go for a snowy hike or walk with your furry friend 

Bundle up and check out the cheery and fun holiday decor in your neighborhood or town. Learn how to go for a hike with your buddy and not kill your back here.

If it’s cold and snowy, then limit the time or use dog boots. Henry loves his winter paw care routine. You can find it here.

6. Plan a playdate with your pup’s favorite fur mate

Take your pup’s favorite playmate a bit of holiday spirit with a dog-friendly Christmas stocking or holiday gift at a scheduled playdate. I think Henry’s best playmate likes dog-friendly treats the best. You can even help them create a fun snow buddy.

While you may love your dog as much as I love Henry, there are some dogs who are thought to usher in luck with the new year. These are the dogs that have been deemed to have a golden touch. Don’t worry if your dog isn’t on the list. Your pup is lucky for you.

7. Meditate with your dog for a calmer holiday

Pet parents and dog lovers find meditating with their fur baby a more effective method to achieve calm. Discover the benefits of meditating with your fur baby here.  

8. Massage your buddy for a mini spa session

Nothing melts the chaos of the holiday festivities like a massage. The same goes for your furry companion. Henry loves his daily massage. I bet your buddy will as well.

 9. Go look at holiday lights with your fur kid

Honestly, one of Henry’s favorite holiday traditions is driving around on Christmas Eve and looking at all the bright Christmas lights and decorations. I suspect he thinks the lights are all for him. It is truly one of our favorite festive activities. 

While tree lights are fun and Henry enjoys them, I make sure that he can’t get tangled in them. I always put up an artificial tree. If you celebrate with a live tree, be careful your dog doesn’t drink the water with preservatives. Also, keep your eyes out for sap on your dog. You can remove it easily with these tricks.

10. Visit a Christmas tree farm

Tree farms have some fun holiday sniffs. They always remind me of the best warm and cozy holiday movies. But make sure to call ahead to ensure your buddy will be welcomed. Of course, don’t let your pup mark any Christmas tree since they will soon be someone’s home. 

Henry seems to attract tree sap like a magnet. These are the tricks I use to easily remove it, even if it’s dry.

11. Santa Claus photo with your pup

Pet stores will normally offer Santa Paws photo days with a small fee that goes to a local pet charity. That’s a great Christmas tradition for pet parents and furry friends. You may even want to put the fun photo on your holiday card. 

But always pay attention to the cues your dog gives you. If your pup is stressed about meeting Santa, then just skip it. Here are more ways to help your anxious pup during the holidays.

12. Use this holiday advent book to have fun celebrating each day with your buddy.

I think this ebook will be a new tradition for Henry. But he does star in the book, so he could be getting a big head. 

This funny book walks you through the 25 days of the holidays with the mishaps of Henry and fun activities to do with your dog each day.

Holiday Hack: Let your dog help you or supervise wrapping gifts. Even if you have a few furs on the paper, or a tear in the middle, it’s fun, and it’s a memory you will treasure in years to come. Henry loves to help me wrap packages. I sit on the floor, and he lies on the roll, so it’s easier for me to cut it to size. Who doesn’t need a bit of wrapping help? 

Dogs have a long tradition of celebrating the holidays with their humans. Discover when it all started here in this short article.

Does It Cost Anything to Include Dogs in Holiday Traditions?

I’m happy to say that all the activities I’ve shared may create a new holiday tradition, but shouldn’t cost you any additional money (or much). Even the holiday ebook is affordable.

Also, you probably have what you need to create a DIY toy or sweater. If not, you can go to your local Goodwill and get what you need for $1-2. That means you can create a priceless new favorite holiday tradition with your buddy for free or nearly free. Henry says not to forget the seasonal treats for your fur kids.

Want ways to reduce your dog’s expenses easily? This guide reveals the hidden dog costs and shows you how to prevent them.

Related articles:

• Favorite Dog Treats With This Free Tool
• Heartfelt DIY Gifts for Dog Parents
• Dog Cuddle Therapy
• Happy Dog Hiking 
• Meditation With Dogs
• Dog Massage Therapy
• Dog Holiday Advent eBook
• Hidden Dog Expenses to Avoid
• Beware of These Dog Holiday Hazards This Season

Final Thoughts on Including Dogs in Holiday Traditions

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Including your dog in the fun holiday traditions can be easy. It may even reduce your stress while bonding with your dog. At least it does for me.

Henry always approves of our holiday traditions with his stubby tail wagging and a toothy smile. What could be better? I really love the memories we create during the holidays. But Henry may love the festive treats he gets during the season.

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