As December arrives, routines get busy, environments get louder, and your dog’s training is tested more than any other time of year. From guests visiting to decorations filling the home, there are countless new distractions that can impact your dog’s behavior.
At Precision Dog Training Academy, we emphasize that December dog training is all about preparing for real-world success. The more structure and consistency you maintain now, the smoother your holidays will be for both you and your pup.
Why December Is the Ultimate Real-World Training Month
The holiday season naturally creates unpredictable environments, which means it’s the perfect time to reinforce your dog’s obedience and confidence.
December dog training helps:
- Maintain structure when routines change
- Reinforce manners before holiday gatherings
- Strengthen calmness around exciting decorations and visitors
- Build reliability during seasonal outings
This month provides priceless opportunities for meaningful, real-life practice.
Key Skills to Strengthen This Month
Use December as your dog’s real-world training check-in. Focus on the obedience skills that will directly support a smooth holiday season:
Place Command
Perfect for keeping your dog calm while guests enter, during mealtimes, or when wrapping presents.
Doorway Manners
With packages, guests, and deliveries happening constantly, consistent doorway control prevents bolting and over-arousal.
Reliable Recall
Seasonal distractions increase—holiday décor, new smells, kids playing. Reinforce recall in your yard, driveway, and mildly busy areas.
Loose-Leash Walking
Holiday crowds and busier stores are ideal for practicing calm, focused heeling during outings.
Practicing in Holiday Environments
Holiday settings provide excellent (and fun!) training opportunities. Try practicing in:
- Stores with seasonal displays
- Christmas tree lots
- Busy sidewalks or local events
- Your home during parties or family gatherings
The goal is not perfection, it’s controlled exposure and learning how to stay focused under mild distraction.
Maintaining Structure During Holiday Chaos
Even with busy schedules, maintaining a foundation of structure helps your dog thrive:
- Keep feeding and exercise times as consistent as possible
- Use “Place” to prevent crowding, jumping, or overeating scraps
- Manage overstimulation with calm crate time
- Continue using your training tools daily
Small habits help keep your dog grounded during high-energy days.
When to Consider a Tune-Up
If you’re noticing excitement, slipping manners, or difficulty holding commands during holiday distractions, it may be time for:
- A private session refresher
- A board and train tune-up
- Intermediate group classes
These programs rebuild consistency, focus, and confidence during a naturally challenging time of year.
Keep the Holiday Momentum Going
Training is a continuous process, and December is an incredible month to sharpen your dog’s skills in real-life situations. Whether you’re reinforcing foundation work or stepping into more advanced obedience, consistent December training will set your dog up for a calm, successful holiday season.
