Lincs Training dog expert Helen V (MBIPDT) with Harriet.

COLUMN: Paws for thought this Christmas

Christmas is a time for family and friends and for everyone to enjoy this time of the year. Your home will be buzzing with people coming and going, but let’s not forget what your dog’s needs are.

Keep to your normal routine, go for your walks on time, feed your dogs on time, and don’t give them food that they do not need.

Be mindful that there are many foodstuffs around Christmas that are toxic to dogs, such as Christmas puddings, mince pies, Christmas cake and chocolate amongst others.

Beware of the hidden dangers, poinsettia plants, pine needles from the Christmas tree that may get stuck in and between the paws, trailing electric leads for Christmas lights, baubles, chocolate decorations on your tree etc.

If you suspect that your dog has ingested anything that it should not, do not delay, take it immediately to the vet where it can be treated successfully if caught in time.

This time of year can be mystifying to a young dog, so try to find a quiet place where your dog can relax, such as a crate with a blanket over, put a nice treat in there with him, a Kong filled with frozen Yoghurt.

Remember that we all need a bit of time and space on our own to relax.

If you send a picture of your dog with a Christmas theme to our e-mail address we will publish these on our Facebook page and will give a bag of dog food to one lucky entrant.

We would like to wish all of you and your dogs a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Lincs Training – Dog Training Made Easy and please keep it a safe one for you and your pets.

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