Naughty or Nice? How to Fix the 10 Most Common Holiday Dog Behaviors

The holidays bring joy—twinkling lights, festive treats, family gatherings…and sometimes a side of canine chaos. Even the best dogs can get a little extra this time of year. Whether your pup is sneaking Christmas cookies or launching themselves into your guests’ arms like Santa’s least-coordinated reindeer, you’re not alone.

Here are the 5 most common holiday dog “naughty list” behaviors—and exactly how to fix them in quick, realistic steps.

1. Counter Surfing (AKA: Kitchen Ninjas)

Holiday food is everywhere, so the temptation is real.

How to Fix It

• Manage the environment: Keep food pushed back, use baby gates around the kitchen, and never leave plates unattended.

• Teach “Leave It”: Start with low-value items and work up to holiday food.

• Reinforce a Place command: Give your dog a job while you cook—mat near the kitchen, not in it.

Pro tip: Reward calmness on the mat more than you think. Dogs repeat what pays off! Utilizing a leash can help so much!

2. Barking at Guests

Doorbells, footsteps, loud coats—it’s all a lot.

How to Fix It

• Practice doorbell desensitization: play the sound quietly → reward calmness → gradually increase volume.

• Send to Place: Make “Place when someone knocks” a structured routine.

• Reward quiet: When your dog pauses barking even for a second, mark and treat.

Bonus: Ask guests to ignore the dog for the first minute to lower excitement.

3. Jumping on Visitors (Festive but…No.)

Some dogs greet like it’s been 84 years since they’ve seen a human.

How to Fix It

• Reward sits at the door: Guests only engage when all four paws stay down.

• Have guests toss a treat on the floor—this turns excitement downward.

• Keep your dog leashed for the first little bit to prevent practice of jumping.

4. Door Dashing During Deliveries

Holiday packages = lots of door activity + dogs thinking they’re joining the adventure.

How to Fix It

• Practice threshold control: Sit → open door 1 inch → reward → open wider.

• Use “Wait” at doors every single day.

• Set up mock delivery drills with family or neighbors.

5. Tree-Trouble: Chewing, Drinking Water, or Stealing Ornaments

Christmas trees are basically dog magnets.

How to Fix It

• Use a small exercise pen around the tree for the first week.

• Keep edible-looking ornaments higher.

• Teach “Leave It” specifically for the tree zone.

• Correcting unwanted behaviour when we see it is key! Utilize your leash here or leverage!