10 Festive Things To Do With Your Pet This Holiday Season

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year by creating fun memories with your four-legged friend.
There’s so much to love about the holiday season. The cheerful music and vibrant decorations bring joy. The earthy smell of Christmas trees and spending time with our loved ones are cherished moments. Naturally, we can’t think of a better way to celebrate with our best furry friends than starting new Christmas traditions and creating special memories together. If you’re looking for ideas on what to do with your pet this holiday season, we’ve got you covered.

Read on for the ultimate pet-themed seasonal bucket list so you and your canine companion or feline friend can have a jolly good time!

01of 10

Go to a Christmas Tree Farm

Celebrate the holiday season with a visit to a dog-friendly Christmas tree farm. Some Christmas tree farms in your area may even have fun events you and your pup can attend together. Be sure to keep your canine companion on a leash and take plenty of pictures.

02of 10

Take Pictures With Santa

It doesn’t get any more festive than posing for pictures with Santa Paws. A few places to check for pet photo events include your local PetSmart, Petco, Christmas tree farms, animal shelters, and malls. Some may offer free photos, while others may require a donation fee for a great cause. Either way, dress Fluffy or Fido in their best holiday-themed outfit and be ready to have the cutest Christmas card this year.

Because these environments can get busy, it’s always a good idea to make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible. You can always dress up as Santa and take photos at home if your dog doesn’t like crowds or strangers.

9 Family Christmas Card Photos with Pets That Are Too Pure for This World

03of 10

Bake Cookies and Treats

The mere thought of enjoying freshly baked, homemade cookies is enough to make us want to spend the day in a blanket burrito and laze away with our best furry friends. Fortunately, there are plenty of yummy recipes out there so your cat or dog can join in on the fun of munching on holiday treats. For cats, you can make tuna catnip treats or a salmon sweet potato cake. And for dogs, try the cranberry oatmeal dog cookies above or peanut butter banana grain-free treats.

04of 10

Play in the Snow

If your pet hasn’t experienced playtime in the snow just yet, now’s the perfect chance to show them a jolly time with winter activities, like creating snow angels, doing zoomies, or playing a game of fetch. Dress your dog (or very adventurous cat) in a warm sweater and winter boots and watch them romp and play in blankets of snow. If your pet is sensitive to low temperatures, watching the snowfall from the comfort of your home and having playtime indoors works great, too.

05of 10

Donate to a Good Cause

One way to give back to pets this holiday season is by donating to a good cause in your pet’s name. Pick a shelter, rescue, or charity close to your heart, and spread the love to those in need, whether it’s by donating extra or gently used supplies, crafting gifts for shelter pets, or making a monetary donation. A little love can make a big difference.

06of 10

Take Family Photos

‘Tis the season for very merry holiday photoshoots. Gather your human and furry family members around and prepare to say “aww” once you see your photos. Adorable outfit ideas include doggie Santa hats, festive ties and bandanas, reindeer antlers, or matching pet and owner pajamas.

No matter whether you hire a professional photographer or use a self-timer, these pictures are certainly going to be Instagram and postcard-worthy. Seeking inspiration? We’ve got you covered with these super cute dog Christmas card ideas.

07of 10

Count Down to Christmas With an Advent Calendar

As pet parents, we find any and every reason to spoil our pets a little extra during the holidays. Sure, we might’ve already ordered all their Christmas gifts because, of course, they were good boys and girls this year. But why wait to start giving the gifts? Start the countdown to Christmas with an advent calendar and watch their tails wag at the sight of their new toys and treats.

How Many Gifts Should You Buy Your Pet For the Holidays: 1? 5!?

08of 10

Cook a Special Holiday Feast

With all the delicious aromas that fill the air during the holidays, our pets might find our meals delightful enough to want to try. However, despite how tasty they smell to them, many human foods can be dangerous to our pets. If you want your furry family member to feel included while you chow down on scrumptious foods, you can whip up their very own holiday feast using Christmas foods that are safe.

09of 10

Get Cozy and Watch Classic Christmas Movies

Chilly winter days are best spent reveling in the holiday spirit and watching Christmas dog movies with your beloved pet. Lounging on the couch with your BFF by your side and a big bowl of popcorn and a cup of hot cocoa within arm’s reach? It just doesn’t get better than that.

10of 10

Safely Enjoy the Magical Decorations

Gazing at a colorful sea of twinkling Christmas lights and decorations with your precious pet makes for a joyful experience and a special holiday memory. You and your furry pal can take a stroll down your street or drive throughout a neighborhood. Take our word for it—enjoying these experiences together will be a core memory for both of you.