Updated for Christmas 2026.
Christmas is the perfect time to slow down, make memories and enjoy cosy moments with the ones we love, especially our pets. If you are looking for fun, wholesome ideas to enjoy with your dog this festive season, our Dog Advent Calendar Bucket List is packed with simple activities you can enjoy day by day throughout December.
Whether you stay close to home or head out exploring, these little moments build connection, confidence and calm. So grab a blanket, get the kettle on and let’s dive into 25 days of festive fun with your pup.
Choosing or making a dog advent calendar
A dog advent calendar is a lovely way to count down to Christmas together, and there are two ways to go about it: buy one made especially for dogs, or make your own. Either way, a little care goes a long way.
What to look for in a shop-bought calendar
- Made for dogs, never for people. Chocolate advent calendars are toxic to dogs, so keep yours well away from theirs.
- Read the ingredients. Avoid anything with chocolate, raisins, grapes or the sweetener xylitol, and check for anything your dog is sensitive to.
- The right size of treat. Small dogs need small treats. A calendar built for a Labrador can be a lot for a terrier.
- Count it in their daily food. Twenty-four extra treats add up, so trim their usual meals a little to balance it out.
- Keep it out of reach. Dogs can sniff out a calendar through the cardboard, and more than one has eaten the whole month in one go. Store it up high or in a cupboard.
Make your own dog advent calendar
A homemade dog Christmas calendar costs very little and you know exactly what’s inside. Number 24 paper bags or envelopes and peg them along a string, or pop a treat into each hole of a muffin tin and cover it with a tennis ball for a sniffing game. Fill them with small pieces of their favourite treats, a handful of their daily kibble, or dog-safe extras like carrot or apple (no core or pips). Mix in a few non-food days too: a new toy, a long sniffy walk, or one of the ideas from our bucket list below.
The Dog Advent Calendar Bucket List
Day 1. Treat your dog to their own advent calendar
Start the countdown with something special. Whether you choose a pet friendly advent calendar or fill your own with safe treats, it is a lovely way to add a small moment of joy each morning.
Day 2. Decorate the Christmas tree together
Paws may not be hanging baubles, but your dog can still be part of the tradition. Take them along to choose the perfect real tree or settle them in their cosy spot at home with a chew while you decorate.
Day 3. Take festive photos by the tree
Capture a photo of your dog in front of the lights. Perfect for sharing with friends or adding to next year’s Christmas cards.
Day 4. Make your own Christmas cards
Use those photos or get creative with paw print cards. Just make sure to use pet safe, washable paint and wipe their paws clean afterwards.
Day 5. Take a warm flask on a winter walk
Hot chocolate for you, a biscuit for your pup and a crisp winter stroll. If you love mince pies, enjoy one for yourself but remember they are unsafe for dogs.
Day 6. Teach your dog a new trick
With more time indoors, this is a lovely chance to practise something new. Try a simple festive themed trick like teaching them to touch a Christmas toy with their nose.
Day 7. Create a paw print Christmas decoration
Salt dough or air dry clay works well for making a keepsake that will return to the tree year after year.
Day 8. Explore your neighbourhood’s Christmas lights
Take an evening walk and see what displays you can find. Village greens, town centres and some National Trust sites have outdoor light trails, and many welcome dogs on leads (check before you go).
Day 9. Enjoy an out of season beach walk
Many beaches that restrict dogs in the summer welcome them again in the cooler months, so check the local signs, wrap up warm and head out for a refreshing splash along the shoreline. If you’re near Plymouth, our guide to dog-friendly walks in and around Plymouth has plenty of ideas.
Day 10. Donate to a local pet charity
Shelters often run Christmas appeals for food, treats and toys. A small donation can make a big difference.
Day 11. Make a snuffle box from delivery packaging
Turn your delivery boxes into an enrichment activity. Fill with kibble or treats and let your dog sniff and shred. Always supervise and choose a different activity if your dog likes to eat cardboard.
Day 12. Create a cosy winter den
As the house fills up for Christmas, make sure your dog has a quiet, warm spot of their own: soft bedding, a favourite toy and somewhere away from the busiest rooms. For ideas, take a look at our cosy dog crate furniture designs.
Day 13. Go on a woodland Christmas tree hunt
Head into the woods and see how many fir trees you can spot. This is a fun activity for both children and dogs to enjoy together.
Day 14. Bake homemade dog treats
Nothing says Christmas quite like baking. Choose a simple dog friendly recipe and make a batch to share with your dog’s friends.
Day 15. Visit friends or family
Christmas is all about connection, so arrange a meet up or a walk with people your dog loves spending time with.
Day 16. Make a Christmas themed enrichment toy
Create a snowman pattern on a lickimat using plain yogurt or blend a festive Kong filling. For inspiration, check out @EnrichingPaws on Instagram.
Day 17. Watch a Christmas movie together
Snuggle up with blankets, cushions and your dog’s favourite cosy space. It is one of the simplest festive joys.
Day 18. Hang up a stocking for Santa Paws
Make or buy a stocking especially for your dog so they can join in the fun on Christmas morning.
Day 19. Let your dog choose a gift at the pet shop
A new toy or tasty treat feels even more special when they pick it themselves.
Day 20. Wrap presents with your dog nearby
Use this as a moment to practise calm boundary training. Set them up on their bed or in their cosy space so they can watch without diving in for the paper.
Day 21. Hide treats around the house
A festive treasure hunt is great fun. If you want to avoid extra calories, hide some of their daily kibble instead.
Day 22. Visit an outdoor Christmas market
Many are dog friendly and offer new sights, smells and experiences.
Day 23. Give your dog a Christmas pamper
Freshen up for the celebrations with a gentle wash, groom or tidy up.
Day 24. Plan a Boxing Day walk
Choose somewhere special and make it part of your holiday tradition.
Day 25. Let your dog help open presents
The rustle of paper, the excitement and the fun of discovering new toys makes this a joyful moment for both of you.
Why festive rituals help your dog feel calm and confident
Cosy routines, enrichment games and time together can help your dog feel secure through a busy season. For dogs who enjoy a designated safe space, a comfortable crate or bedroom can make the holidays much less overwhelming. Many of our clients tell us that having a reliable retreat helps their dog settle when guests visit or when the house becomes more lively. The same space comes into its own when the fireworks return on New Year’s Eve; our fireworks safety tips apply then too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as long as the treats are dog safe and fed in moderation.
Mince pies, Christmas pudding, onion gravy, chocolate, alcohol and anything containing raisins or xylitol.
Yes, as long as your dog is confident in busy environments and the market is held outdoors.
A snuffle box is an enrichment activity made from clean cardboard and paper where dogs hunt for treats or kibble using their nose.
Stick to familiar routines, provide enrichment, take quiet breaks and give them access to their safe space such as their crate or dog bedroom.
Simple combinations like peanut butter (xylitol free) and oat biscuits, frozen yogurt snowflakes or turkey and veg mini bites.
Use the Christmas break to plan a calm, stylish space for your dog
December can be busy for dogs, so the festive holiday is an ideal moment to think about how a dedicated space could support calm and comfort in the new year. Our bespoke dog bedrooms are built to last and designed around your home.