The LMH 5-step guide to hosting the perfect dog-friendly Christmas party!

The festive season is all about togetherness - and for those of us who share our lives with dogs, that means including them in the celebrations too! From cosy dinners to glittering gatherings, our four-legged friends bring an extra tail wag of joy to every moment - and usually end up stealing some of the festive spotlight too!

At Love My Human, it will come as no surprise that we believe Christmas should be as magical for dogs as it is for their humans. So, whether you’re planning to host at home, or prefer to let us do the hard work for you at Love My Human Townhouse, here’s how to create a dog-friendly Christmas party that’s stylish, safe, and full of fun.

 

Step 1: Think stylish… and practical 

Create a space that feels warm and welcoming for both people and pups. Dogs are not always the most ‘refined’ party guests, so there’s definitely a sweet spot when it comes to decor! 

It’s always best to keep decorations simple and dog-safe. Avoid showcasing any fragile ornaments you can’t bear to have broken - just in case?! Not to say you’ll intentionally be inviting deliberately destructive canine guests, of course. But let’s remember, that even super-friendly tail-wagging can have a catastrophic effect on the more delicately dressed interiors! 

A festive scent really adds to a party atmosphere, but it’s just as important to make sure that any scented candles you light are positioned well out of reach and are pup-friendly candles. Avoid any made with paraffin wax, as studies have shown that they release potentially dangerous chemicals. Instead, look for candles made with 100% natural soy wax or other plant or vegetable waxes. 

Step 2: Create a calm ‘escape’ space 

Even the most sociable party dogs appreciate a quiet spot to relax. Set up a soft bed or blanket with their favourite toy for some downtime between cuddles. That applies to any visiting pups too. Christmas get togethers are lots of fun, but they can also be stressful for four-legged guests. Meeting new people, loud noises, changes in their routine - all these factors can make your dog anxious. Even the friendliest dogs can find it all a bit overwhelming. 

Signs of festive party-induced stress can include panting, pacing, excessive licking, and hiding. Be mindful and ready to offer them some time out. If all the comings goings of a busy Christmas season are just too much for your pup, we stock the Dorwest range of calming supplements, which can help naturally reduce anxiety.

Step 3: Get them dressed for the occasion 

A festive gathering always offers the perfect excuse to get dressed up - for dogs too!  We have this sartorial challenge sorted at the Love My Human boutique on the King’s Road, Chelsea, with a gorgeous selection of accessories, from elegant pup-ready bandanas and bows to cosy knitwear - the latter ideal if your dog-friendly gathering is going to be al fresco.  

If they need a quick spruce beforehand (while you’re off for your pre-party blow-dry), don’t forget to book a grooming slot with us. Our warm, friendly groomers provide expert care and services tailored to each pet's unique needs and every member of the salon team has no less than level two City and Guilds (or equivalent) qualification in dog grooming. 

Step 4: Serve a dog-friendly Christmas Feast 

No party is complete without delicious food - and your dog will want to join the feast too. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly space to host an unforgettable festive event, look no further! 

With extensive experience in hosting parties and product launches that include our four-legged friends, we offer a unique and enjoyable setting for both humans and dogs at the Townhouse on the King’s Road, Chelsea. 

Our delicious doggy menu, exclusively designed for us by pet nutritionists, includes a Mini Afternoon Tea, Duke Of Wellington, Fish and Chips…and The Dogs Bollocks! (that’s turkey, rosemary & thyme meatballs on bed of butternut squash purée with cauliflower & mint, in case you were wondering!). 

If you are catering at home, just don’t forget to keep chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and xylitol-sweetened foods strictly off-menu. Remember too that extra treats and excitement can sometimes upset even the happiest of tummies. 

Step 5: Party favours anyone? 

No Christmas party is complete without gifts - and surely the hounds shouldn’t miss out? Treat your dog to something special from our Love My Human collection featuring hand-picked toys, drool-inducing treats, and stylish accessories. Hosting a ‘Secret Santa for dogs’ can also be a wonderful way to include all your guests’ furry friends in the fun - and it’s guaranteed to get tails wagging.

www.lovemyhuman.co.uk