The holidays are a magical time—warm meals, laughter echoing through the house, and loved ones gathering under one roof. But for our dogs, all that excitement can feel like chaos. With new smells, unfamiliar voices, and a shifting routine, it’s easy for even the calmest pup to get overwhelmed.
As someone on the Impact Dog Crates team—and a fellow dog parent—I know how important it is to make your crate a safe, comforting place during the holidays. With a little prep, your dog’s crate can be their peaceful retreat while you enjoy time with friends and family. Here’s how I recommend getting ready.
Planning Your Crate Setup
Where you place your crate during the holidays can make a big difference in how your dog feels. We always suggest avoiding the main traffic zones, like right next to the kitchen or entryway. Instead, choose a quiet corner where your dog can still see the action if they want to, but has the option to tune out when needed.
Comfort is key. If it’s been a while since you last checked the sizing or bedding, take a moment now. Add a fresh crate pad, maybe a favorite blanket, and make sure there’s room for your dog to stand, turn, and stretch.
Here’s a quick checklist of what we consider “crate must-haves” during the holidays:
-
Crate pad or orthopedic bedding for joint comfort
-
Familiar toy or chew (something safe for unsupervised time)
-
A water bowl or a mounted water bottle
-
A crate fan or breathable crate cover for comfort and airflow
-
Optional: lavender-scented crate-safe spray for relaxation
If you’re using one of our Collapsible Dog Crates, it’s especially handy to move it into a quieter space as needed. Setups can be flexible—just make sure your dog feels at home in their crate, wherever it is.
Crate Training Refreshers
Even well-trained dogs may need a refresher when life at home changes. The holidays are the perfect time to revisit positive crate association techniques. A few five-minute training sessions in the days leading up to a gathering can go a long way.
I like to toss treats or a favorite toy into the crate and praise my dog for entering it voluntarily. If you have guests coming over, you might even start saying “guest time” as a cue when your pup goes into the crate. This creates a clear, calm transition and gives your dog a sense of routine, even when things are bustling around them.
We also recommend:
-
Feeding meals in the crate to build a positive association
-
Practicing short crate sessions while you’re home, so it doesn’t feel like a punishment
-
Using a release word or signal to let them know when it’s okay to come out
Keep things short and sweet. The goal is to remind your dog that their crate is their happy place—even when the world outside feels extra busy.
Managing Noise & Excitement
Holidays can get loud. Doorbells, laughter, clinking plates—it’s all part of the fun, but it can be a sensory overload for our four-legged friends. This is where crate accessories become incredibly helpful.
A crate cover can soften bright lights and muffle unfamiliar sounds. If your crate has ventilation on all sides, like our Stationary Crates, covering three sides can create a den-like effect while still allowing airflow. A small fan aimed at the crate can also help if your home gets warm with guests inside.
To take things a step further, here are a few calming tools I always recommend:
-
Soft crate pads with memory foam or gel cooling
-
Long-lasting chews (safe and digestible only!)
-
A plush toy with a heartbeat simulator for younger or nervous dogs
-
A white noise machine is placed nearby
-
Calming scent diffusers (vet-approved and away from crate opening)
You don’t have to go overboard—just a few additions can keep your dog content while the house hums with activity.
Guest Etiquette Around Crates
Not everyone understands how to interact with dogs in crates, especially kids or extended family who might be excited to see your pup. That’s why setting clear boundaries—both verbal and visual—is one of the best things you can do.
Let guests know your dog’s crate is their “bedroom,” and they should be left alone when they’re inside. I’ve seen families make fun signs for the holidays, like “Please do not open—Nap in Progress” or “Recharging Zoomies—Back Soon.” These can be a gentle but effective reminder.
It also helps to walk your guests through:
-
Not reaching into the crate to pet or feed the dog
-
Letting the dog come out voluntarily
-
Understanding crate time is rest time, not punishment
When your dog knows their crate is respected, they’ll feel safer, and your guests will help keep the peace without even realizing it.
Calm Crates, Happy Holidays
Holiday gatherings can be a lot for our dogs to take in, but with a few thoughtful steps, their crate can become the calm in the festive storm. Location, prep, refresher training, and respectful boundaries all add up to a better experience for everyone.
If you’re looking to enhance your setup, check out our crate accessories collection or take our Crate Quiz to find the perfect fit. From cozy pads to smart ventilation options, we’ve designed every detail to help you and your dog enjoy more stress-free moments together.
