Welcoming a new doodle puppy home during the holidays can be one of the most magical gifts your family experiences – but it also comes with unique challenges. Between twinkling lights, visiting relatives, new smells, and nonstop excitement, it’s important to prepare your home (and your heart) for the arrival of your holiday bundle of fluff.
Whether you’re receiving a Much Ado About Doodles puppy through our Christmas placement program or preparing for a winter litter, here are our top tips for helping your new pup settle in smoothly during the holiday season.
Create a Calm, Puppy-Ready Space
With guests coming and going, it’s tempting to introduce your new puppy to everyone at once – but a calmer, more gradual approach is key.
Designate a quiet, cozy spot for your doodle to decompress. This could be a small puppy playpen or gated area with soft bedding, water, and safe chew toys. Avoid placing their space in the middle of holiday chaos (like near the tree or kitchen).
Crate training can also offer your pup a sense of safety and predictability. Learn more about how our Puppy Training Program sets the foundation before they even arrive home.
Watch Out for Holiday Hazards
From decorative ribbon to candy canes and snow globes, many holiday items can be dangerous to curious puppies. Common risks include:
- Electric cords from string lights
- Tinsel and glass ornaments
- Chocolate and sugar-free treats with xylitol
- Pine needles from real trees
- Candles and wax melts
Puppy-proof like you would for a toddler: secure cords, skip fragile ornaments on low branches, and keep food and small objects well out of reach.
Stick to Routine (Even When Life Isn’t)
While holidays often mean travel, guests, and late nights, your new doodle will thrive with routine.
Try to feed, potty, and walk your puppy at the same time each day. Even just a few consistent anchor points in their schedule can help them adjust to new surroundings and feel secure.
We also recommend keeping training brief but regular – a few minutes a day of practicing basic commands can reinforce good behavior and keep your bond growing strong.
Slow and Sweet Social Introductions
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are naturally social, but a sudden flood of new people and noises can feel overwhelming for a young puppy.
Let your doodle observe new guests from a safe distance before encouraging interactions. Ask children to sit down before petting, and always supervise playtime.
Bonus tip: Wrap a few puppy-safe toys as holiday gifts and let your pup join in the festivities!
Plan for Potty Time in Cold Weather
Winter potty training can be a little trickier thanks to cold temperatures and icy surfaces. We recommend:
- Shoveling a small grassy area close to your door
- Using the same cue words each time
- Offering treats and praise immediately after success
Consistency matters more than weather. With gentle repetition, even cold-weather pups can master house training.
Make Memories, But Manage Expectations
It’s easy to imagine picture-perfect holiday moments, but remember: your doodle is still a baby. There will be accidents, chewed bows, and early wake-ups. That’s all part of the journey.
Focus on bonding, routine, and gentle boundaries. The memories you’ll create will be joyful not because they were perfect, but because they were shared.
Need More Help?
We offer personalized training and post-placement support to help your puppy thrive. If you’re bringing home one of our Christmas or winter litters, we’re just a message away with advice, coaching, or product recommendations.
For additional tips on holiday safety for pets, check out the ASPCA’s Winter Holiday Safety Guide.
From our family to yours: Happy Holidays and welcome to the world of doodle love!
