Preparing Your Home for The Holidays – Tips on Cleaning with Dogs

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As the festive season approaches, bringing with it the promise of joy, celebration, and family gatherings, dog parents face the unique challenge of preparing their homes for the holidays while ensuring the safety and comfort of their furry family members. This article aims to guide dog parents through preparations for the bustling holiday season, offering a comprehensive review of products specifically designed to help you get the house and your pup holiday-ready without dampening the festive spirit by pet-related concerns.

Our curated list of products offers practical solutions to common holiday challenges faced by dog parents. We will explore everything from non-toxic, pet-friendly cleansers that add sparkle to your home without posing a risk to your dog to calming aids that help manage the stress your pet might feel during lively holiday gatherings. Whether you’re looking for the safest way to spiff up your dog for the Christmas celebrations or seeking tips on maintaining a pet-friendly yet tidy environment, our product reviews are tailored to ensure that your holiday season is as merry for your dog as it is for you and your family.

Buyer’s Guide: Factors to Consider When Getting the House Holiday Ready When You Have Dogs

Decoration Safety:

Many holiday decorations can be hazardous to dogs. Avoid small, breakable ornaments that can be swallowed or chewed. Tinsel, if ingested, can cause intestinal blockages. Ensure that decorations are out of reach or are of a type that won’t harm your pet if they interact with them.

Cleaning Products and Chemicals:

The holidays often prompt deep cleaning and the use of various cleaning products. Many household cleaners contain chemicals that can be harmful to dogs if ingested or if they come into contact with their skin. Always store cleaning products out of your dog’s reach and use pet-friendly, non-toxic options whenever possible. Ensure any areas cleaned with strong chemicals are well-ventilated and that any residues are thoroughly rinsed away before allowing your dog access.

Plant Toxicity:

Certain holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are toxic to dogs. Keep these plants out of reach, or opt for pet-safe alternatives.

Electrical Cords and Lights:

Dogs might chew on electrical cords, which can lead to electrocution or fire hazards. Secure cords out of reach and monitor your pets around lit decorations.

Food Safety:

The holidays often involve foods that are dangerous to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, and foods containing xylitol. Ensure that all food is kept out of reach, and inform your guests about not feeding your pets table scraps.

Noise and Stress:

The bustle of the holidays can be stressful for pets. Provide a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can retreat from the noise and activity. This is especially important if you’re hosting gatherings or parties.

Guests and Interactions:

Not all dogs are comfortable around new people. If your dog is anxious or not used to being around many people, it’s important to manage interactions to prevent stress or possible aggression.

Routine and Exercise:

To reduce holiday-related stress, maintain your dog’s regular routine, including feeding times and exercise.

Gifts and Wrappings:

Dogs might be tempted to chew on gifts or wrapping materials. Keep these items out of reach, and be mindful of small parts that could be ingested.

Allergies and Sensitivities:

Be aware of any allergies your dog may have, especially when introducing new holiday-themed toys or treats.

The Best Tips and Products to Help With Preparing Your Home for the Holidays

Get the House Clean & Holiday Ready with Dog Safety In Mind

#1 – Clean with Dog-Safe Cleansers

Many common household chemicals like cleaning solutions and fragrance sprays can be potentially toxic to pets. Our animal companions are more vulnerable than people to toxins around the home due to the fact they’re closer to carpets, floors, and restricted areas that may harbor chemical and pesticide residues. Not to mention, their curious nature can lead them to encounter substances harmful to their health.

Cleaning products with ingredients such as bleach, ammonia, chlorine, glycol ethers, or formaldehyde can put pets at risk for cancer, anemia, liver and kidney damage. Choose safe and non-toxic products like CleanSmart Daily Surface Cleaner and Pet-Safe Disinfectant, which breaks down into saline solutions. As you begin to spray, scrub, and clean the nooks and crannies in your home this year, be mindful of both your family’s and your pet’s health.

#2 – Festively Fur-Free Floors

Regular vacuuming and cleaning of floors are essential, not just for aesthetics but also for the health and safety of both your guests and your furry companions. Dog hair, dander, and the occasional muddy paw prints can accumulate quickly, making an efficient and pet-friendly vacuum cleaner an invaluable tool. The BISSELL 24613 Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus Lightweight Vacuum is ideal for tackling pet hair in carpets. Its tangle-free brush roll and Smart Seal System trap dust and allergens, keeping mess and floating particles out of the air as you clean.

Additionally, opt for non-toxic, pet-safe floor cleaners to ensure your home is not only sparkling but also a safe environment for your dogs. When it’s time to mop, Aunt Fannie’s Ultra Concentrated Floor Cleaner Vinegar Wash cleans sealed floors, including hardwood, tile, vinyl, linoleum, and more, without harsh chemicals. You’ll love the fresh lemon scent it leaves behind.

Frequent vacuuming, coupled with spot-cleaning carpets, can significantly reduce allergens and keep your living space fresh and inviting, ready to welcome both two-legged and four-legged guests for the holiday festivities. For messes in your carpet, Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator uses enzyme power to clean a variety of surfaces, including carpets, furniture, and flooring. It has a pleasing scent, leaving your home smelling fresh after each use. Despite being powerful, it’s gentle and safe for pets and children when used as directed.

For big and deep messes, it may take the strength of a carpet cleaning machine. The Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner and Car/Auto Detailer easily cleans pet stains and odors from carpets, stairs, upholstery, area rugs, auto interiors, and more. With a 48-ounce tank and an easy carry handle, you’ll be set to suck up all the mess.

#3 – Contain Dog Messes with An Indoor Potty

During the bustling holiday season, an indoor dog potty becomes an indispensable asset for dog owners, offering a practical solution for pets when outdoor access is challenging amidst the festivities. The PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pee Pad for Dogs offers an innovative tool that’s particularly beneficial during extended family gatherings and parties or when inclement winter weather makes regular outdoor trips impractical. It not only provides convenience and peace of mind but also maintains comfort and routine for your dog, reducing stress and potential accidents in the house. The indoor potty’s discreet and hygienic design seamlessly integrates into any home setting, ensuring that the holiday spirit remains uninterrupted while catering to the essential needs of your canine companion. With an indoor dog potty, you can fully engage in the holiday celebrations, knowing your pup is well taken care of in the warmth and safety of your home.

#4 – Tidy up the Dog Toys

As the holidays draw near, tidying up your space becomes a top priority, and this includes managing your dog’s toys. The Thankspaw Dog Toy Box offers an elegant and functional solution to keep your home organized and clutter-free. This large, collapsible storage bin, designed with a convenient handle, is perfect for stowing away all your dog’s favorite toys, blankets, and accessories. Its stylish fabric trapezoid design complements your home decor and makes accessing and storing pet items effortless. Whether preparing for holiday guests or simply seeking to bring order to your pet’s playthings, a dog toy box ensures that your dog’s essentials are neatly stored yet easily accessible throughout the festive season.

And before you store the toys away, consider giving them a good cleaning. Keep these tips in mind for cleaning dog toys:

• Before tossing toys, blankets, or beds into the washer, scrape off the visible dirt and debris. Large chunks of dirt can be ground into the item and will collide with other objects in the washer, making your job much more challenging than it needs to be.
• When cleaning rubber or plastic toys, hold each item under running water first to rinse away any mud, dirt, or grass. After this step, let them soak in a bucket or tub with a pet-safe detergent for about an hour to ensure all bacteria are killed. You may need to use a hand towel to rub some stains out or to help get into the cracks or crevices where additional bacteria can build up.

#5 – The Scent of the Holidays & Not Dog Stink

Using Christmas candles and other deodorizers during the holiday season adds a warm, festive ambiance to your home while effectively countering pet odors. However, it’s crucial to choose pet-friendly options. Opt for candles made from natural, non-toxic materials like soy or beeswax, and ensure they’re placed well out of reach of curious pets. Diane’s Custom Candles Siberian Fir Candle fits the safety bill as it’s made with a soy wax blend that’s paraben/phthalate free and has a lead-free cotton wick.

Similarly, when selecting air fresheners or other scent diffusers, it’s important to pick those free from harsh chemicals or essential oils that can be harmful to dogs. Reed diffusers can offer long-lasting scents, and the One Fur All, Pet House Reed Diffuser in Evergreen Forest will safely bring the scent of the holidays to your home with a non-toxic formula and bamboo diffuser sticks.

Not only do these choices keep the air fresh and imbued with the comforting scents of the season, like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla, but they also ensure a safe environment for your four-legged family members. By thoughtfully selecting and positioning these aromatic additions, you can enhance the holiday spirit in your home while safeguarding the health and well-being of your pets.

#6 – Un-Deck Your Halls of Fur and Hair

Fur rakes are one of the most marvelous inventions for homes with dogs and cats. You won’t even believe how much hair you can rake from upholstery, blankets, and beds! And with the Uproot Cleaner Pro Pet Hair Remover in hand, you’ll be addicted to scraping up every bit of fur in the house. Guests will be amazed how a dog home can be so fur-free.

#7 – Protect Your Furniture The Mess of Dogs and Fun

During the holiday season, the use of couch covers becomes an exceptionally wise choice for homes with dogs, serving a dual purpose of protecting furniture from pet hair and possible stains while also maintaining a pristine seating area for guests. These covers are particularly beneficial as they not only safeguard your sofas from the wear and tear of daily pet use but also ensure a hygienic and visually appealing living space for holiday entertaining. Many modern couch covers, like the FunnyFuzzy Cosy Plush Solid Colour Non-slip Couch Cover, are designed to be stylish, easily washed, and come in a variety of materials and colors to match any home decor.

This simple yet effective solution allows dog parents to seamlessly blend pet-friendly living with the elegance and cleanliness desired for festive occasions. By employing couch covers, you can enjoy the company of your furry companions and human guests without worrying about your furniture’s cleanliness and longevity.

Get Your Dog Holiday Ready with These Essentials

Now that the house is ready to receive holiday guests, it’s time to prepare your pup to be the furriest host with the most! Check out these holiday essentials for dogs.

#8 – Dressed and Ready for the Season

The holiday season presents a delightful opportunity to include your canine companion in the festivities with a wardrobe of cute Christmas-themed attire. Dressing your dog in holiday-themed clothes, ranging from cozy sweaters adorned with snowflakes or reindeer motifs to festive bandanas and even Santa or elf costumes, adds an extra touch of cheer to your celebrations. And for extra fun, the Pet Life LED Lighting Holiday Hooded Sweater offers a look that will have your dog lighting up the room! All you need is batteries and a willing pup!

Not only do these adorable outfits make for charming photo opportunities that capture the spirit of the season, but they also provide an additional layer of warmth for your pet during colder weather. And if you want to be super precious with your dog, opt for a matching sweater set. With Blueberry Pet’s Matching Ugly Christmas Sweaters, you and your furry bestie can rock around the Christmas tree like twinsies. They’re sold separately, so add both to your cart.

When selecting these holiday garments, prioritize your dog’s comfort and ensure any clothing fits well without restricting movement. By incorporating this festive attire into your dog’s wardrobe, you can enhance the holiday ambiance in your home and create joyous, memorable moments with your well-dressed, four-legged family member.

#9 – Season’s Greeting from A Squeaky-Clean Dog

Regular bathing is essential to maintaining a clean house and a great-smelling (and looking) dog. Plus, grooming benefits your pet’s overall wellness, health and happiness. Before your holiday guests arrive, it’s a good idea to give your Fido or Fluffy a nice bath to scrub away dirt and odors. Choose a shampoo without harsh chemicals that can irritate your pet’s skin, like Buddy Wash Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner, which consists of natural and safe ingredients.

If your dog loves a big, fluffy towel after bath time, our iHeartDogs Large Premium Bath Towel For Dogs is a treat they’ll adore. Plus, in drying your dog, you’re also feeding hungry dogs with your purchase.

Finish off getting your pup’s holiday scrub with a good brushing that will help catch loose hair and make their coat shiny and lustrous for holiday gatherings. The Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush gives you two brushes in one to get the good done well and efficiently.

#10 – Calming Aids for Comfort and Joy

The arrival of guests during the holiday season can be a source of stress and anxiety for many dogs, and managing their comfort is crucial for a harmonious celebration. Cannanine™ Bacon Flavored CBD Soft Chews for Dogs offer a palatable and effective solution to help soothe your pup’s nerves during these bustling times. These soft chews, infused with CBD and enticingly bacon-flavored, are designed to naturally calm your dog’s anxiety without causing drowsiness.

They can be particularly beneficial in situations where your home is filled with unfamiliar faces and noises, providing a sense of relaxation and well-being for your pet. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement to your dog’s routine to ensure it’s a safe and suitable option for their needs. By incorporating Cannanine™ CBD Soft Chews into your dog’s holiday regimen, you can help ease their stress, allowing them to enjoy the festivities alongside the rest of the family in a more relaxed and comfortable manner.

#11 – Let Their Christmas Coat Shine with Luster

The festive season is the perfect time to ensure your dog looks and feels their best, and iHeartDogs Happy, Healthy Omega 3-6-9 Skin & Coat Chews offer a wonderful way to achieve a glamorous and healthy coat for your canine companion. These chews are packed with a balanced blend of Omega fatty acids, crucial for maintaining a shiny, smooth, and healthy coat. Regular use of these supplements enhances the natural luster and quality of your dog’s fur, making them look exceptionally well-groomed for holiday photos and gatherings. These soft chews also promote overall skin health, reducing the likelihood of dryness or irritation in the harsh winter months. The palatable taste ensures your dog will enjoy this daily treat, making it a hassle-free addition to their grooming routine.

#12 – Fresh Kisses for Santa Claus

As the holiday season brings guests and perhaps even a visit from Santa Claus, ensuring your pup is guest-ready extends beyond their appearance to include their breath. While we cherish our furry friends’ affectionate licks and kisses, it’s important to address their breath before they enthusiastically greet your guests. Products like iHeartDogs Brushy Sticks Dental Treats For Dogs can play a vital role in this regard, helping to eliminate bad breath caused by bacteria and food particles in your dog’s mouth. These grain-free dental sticks also appeal to your dog’s desire to chew, so they’re a win in more ways than one.

Another excellent solution for maintaining oral hygiene with ease is the use of a brushless toothpaste, such as Oratene Brushless Toothpaste Gel for Dogs and Cats. This innovative product simplifies the process of keeping your pet’s teeth clean and breath fresh without the need for traditional brushing, which can be a challenge for some pets and parents. Oratene’s gel formula is designed to be applied directly to the gum line, providing a no-fuss approach to oral care. It works to reduce plaque, soothe irritated gums, and eliminate bad breath-causing bacteria. Ideal during the holiday rush, this brushless toothpaste ensures that your dog’s mouth stays healthy and their breath stays fresh, making their affectionate kisses a welcome part of your festive celebrations.

A quick brush with canine toothpaste or a dental treat before the guests arrive can make those joyful, up-close greetings more pleasant for everyone involved. Paying attention to your dog’s oral hygiene ensures their loving gestures are received with smiles rather than winces, making your holiday gatherings more enjoyable for everyone, including your four-legged family member.

Final Thoughts on Safely Preparing Your Home For the Holidays

As we wrap up our guide to the best holiday prep products for dog parents and their besties, we hope you feel well-equipped to navigate the festive season with your furry companion by your side. Remember, the key to a successful holiday with pets is preparation, vigilance, and choosing the right products that cater to both safety and enjoyment. May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and wagging tails as you create unforgettable memories with your beloved canine companion amidst the magic of the season.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.