Christmas is just around the corner (can you believe it?!), and for us dog lovers, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without including our four-legged family members in the festivities.

Whether you’re planning cosy family gatherings or outdoor adventures, your pup can be part of the fun with some easy and enjoyable pet-friendly Christmas activities that they’ll absolutely love.

To get your Christmas planning started, we’ve rounded up ten dog-friendly holiday activities that will make your holiday season extra special.

And don’t worry, we’ll show you how to incorporate our festive treat range to keep tails wagging throughout the festive season!

1. Decorate a dog-safe Christmas tree

Everyone loves decorating their tree, as it marks the beginning of the festive season. Give your tree a dog-friendly twist by adding pet-safe decorations. Opt for shatterproof ornaments and string lights that are well out of reach, so your pup won’t be tempted to chew on them.

To reward your dog for being part of the decorating fun, treat them to the WAG Festive Treats Tube. With a variety of natural treats inside, this festive tube will keep your dog entertained while you add the finishing touches to your tree.

When you're placing presents under the tree, don't forget to include a special surprise for your furry family member (we recommend our special Christmas Cracker!)

2. Take a festive walk through the neighbourhood

Leash up your doggo, and head out for a festive stroll through your neighbourhood. Many homes put up beautiful Christmas lights, making your evening walk even more magical. Plus, it’s a great way for your dog to get some exercise and burn off any holiday excitement!

You can also take a festive detour and check out some local Christmas decoration routes in your area – your dog will love the lights just as much as you do!

After your walk, give your pup a special long-lasting treat like the Kangaroo King Tail Candy Cane. This chew is packed with lean kangaroo meat and will keep your dog happily gnawing while you kick back and relax.

3. Host a Christmas photoshoot

Time to break out the Christmas costumes! Whether your canine companion prefers a festive bandana or goes all out with a Santa suit, a holiday photoshoot is a fun way to capture memories.

Set up a simple backdrop with holiday decor, add some props (think tinsel, presents, and reindeer ears), and snap away! Already got your tree up? This also makes the perfect festive backdrop. You can even turn the photos into personalised Christmas cards.

To keep your dog’s attention during the photoshoot, our Forage Fish is the perfect treat to have on hand. Use it to reward your pup for sitting still (even for a moment) or looking extra cute!

4. Bake dog-friendly Christmas cookies

If you love baking, why not whip up a batch of Christmas cookies made just for dogs? There are plenty of simple recipes that use ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats, which are dog-friendly. Get creative with festive shapes like trees, stars, or candy canes using cookie cutters.

While the cookies are in the oven, keep your dog busy with the Collagen Christmas Candy Cane. These chews are not only festive and great for mental stimulation, but good for your dog’s dental health, as they’re packed with protein and promote strong teeth and gums.

5. Plan a doggy gift exchange

If you’re part of a local dog-loving community or have lots of family members or friends who also have dogs, organise a Secret Santa or gift exchange. Each participant can bring a wrapped dog toy, treat, or accessory to exchange. You’ll be spreading the holiday joy, and your pup will have a blast unwrapping a new surprise!

Speaking of surprises, don’t forget to add the WAG Festive Treats Tube to your gift list! Guaranteed to delight even the pickiest pups, WAG Festive Tubes are packed with drool-worthy, hypoallergenic Kangaroo Liver.

This stylish tin is perfect for storing all of your dog’s festive treats and snacks, keeping them fresh and easily accessible throughout the holidays. The furry recipient will be absolutely thrilled with their gift!

6. Create a Christmas scavenger hunt

Add some excitement to your dog’s day by setting up a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt. Hide some of their favourite WAG treats around the house or backyard and encourage your dog to sniff them out. You can even place treats inside wrapped boxes or a puzzle toy for an extra challenge!

Create a Christmas scavenger hunt for dogs

7. Watch Christmas movies together

If your holiday plans include a movie marathon, why not let your dog join in on the fun? Set up a cosy spot on the couch with blankets and pillows, and enjoy classic Christmas films together. Don’t forget to have some festive snacks for your dog, too!

Check out our previous blog on the 10 best movies to watch with your dog over Christmas.

8. DIY Christmas toys and treats!

Get crafty this Christmas by making homemade dog treats! You can easily create tug toys using old t-shirts or make a puzzle game using cardboard boxes or egg cartons. Personalising a toy for your dog is a fun way to add an extra touch of love to their Christmas presents.

You can also make your own festive treats for your doggo, check out our blog for more deets!

9. Include your dog in holiday traditions

Whether it's unwrapping presents on Christmas morning or gathering around the tree for board games, make sure to include your dog in as many family traditions as possible—they're part of the family, after all! Let them ‘help’ unwrap gifts, join in family photos, take a trip to the (dog-friendly) beach, and enjoy the holiday fun right alongside you.

10. Enjoy a festive playdate

Spread the Christmas cheer and organise a Christmas playdate with other dogs! Head to the dog park or invite a few friends over for some festive fun. You can set up an obstacle course, play fetch with holiday-themed toys, and, of course, share some tasty treats with all the pups.

Make sure you bring along the WAG Festive Treats Tube, so you’re fully stocked with treats to reward the good boys and girls during the playdate. The tin is easy to carry and keeps your treats fresh for the whole day.

How do I keep my dog calm over the busy festive season?

The holiday hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for our furry friends, but with a few simple tips, you can help keep your dog relaxed.

Create a quiet, cosy space for them to retreat to when things get hectic. Stick to their usual routine as much as possible, including regular walks and playtime.

You can also offer calming chews, like our Calming Functional Jerky, which not only keeps them entertained but helps soothe anxiety through chewing.

Keep things stress-free and your pup will enjoy the festive season just as much as you do!

Have a very merry WAG-Christmas!

This Christmas, make your dog’s holiday just as joyful and exciting as your own with these fun and festive activities.

Whether it’s a simple walk through the lights, baking dog-friendly cookies, or surprising them with WAG’s delicious festive treats, your pup will feel every bit a part of the celebration.

Spending quality time with your family members – including your furry ones – is truly one of the best parts of the holiday season.

Grab them before they’re gone!

Explore WAG’s full range of Christmas treats today – it’s never too early to start prepping for the holiday season! This year we are offering the following fun choices:

But hurry, these festive goodies are available for a limited time, so grab them before they’re gone! Happy holidays from WAG! 🐾🎄

10 Fun and Festive Christmas Activities to Enjoy with Your Dog