Heading out to pick a Christmas tree is a holiday tradition for many — and bringing your dog along can turn that outing into a memory you’ll treasure forever.
But it’s not just a stroll through a forest of evergreens; when your four-legged friend comes with you, there are a few smart moves to make so that everyone stays safe, happy, and stress-free.
First off, let your dog in on the adventure. Most pups love the freedom to explore, and tree farms are a playground of new smells, sights, and textures.
Whether it’s a senior dog quietly sniffing fir trees or an excited puppy seeing snow for the first time, this kind of outing can be a real joy. Just make sure you’re ready for what comes with that excitement.
One of the first things to prepare for is “accidents.”
When dogs are in new places, especially if they’re sniffing around and moving a lot, they may need to go more than once—or just decide to do their business in an unexpected spot.
Bring plenty of poop bags, and don’t hesitate to pick up quickly. It’s not just about being polite; it’s about respecting the farm and other families looking for trees.
Then there’s the issue of marking. Yes, your dog may feel compelled to sniff every tree—and if male, he might try to mark them.
That’s natural, but it’s your job to steer him. Use a short leash, keep him close, and don’t let him go wild on the tree trunks.
Remember, people around you are there to choose their holiday tree, not to watch your dog claim every single branch.
Speaking of other people, chances are good you’ll run into other dogs and kids at the farm.
These places often attract families, and not everyone is ready for an excited dog on leash.
If your dog isn’t great with other dogs, or if children scare him, be extra careful. Keep him close, watch how he reacts, and don’t hesitate to step aside or move away if things get tense.
On the flip side, this is also a perfect time to take festive photos. The mix of pine trees, twinkling lights (if the farm has them), and your dog dressed in a holiday sweater can make for magical shots.
That photo of your pup sniffing a tree or standing proudly next to a fir will be a holiday card contender for years to come.
Now, practical advice: bring two people. If you’re alone, juggling a leash, a saw, and a tree can be awkward, to say the least.
Having one person wrangle the dog and the other focus on tree cutting makes life easier — and safer.
But let’s talk about what could go wrong — and how to prevent it. Dogs exploring a tree farm are amazing, but they can also get tangled on leashes, trip over tree stumps, or eat things they shouldn’t.
Keep the leash reasonably short and be ready to intervene. Watch where he’s sniffing. If he starts chewing things, distract him with treats or redirect his attention.
There are also environmental concerns. Some farms have rough terrain, muddy patches, or even tools lying around. Try to stick to paths when possible, and always supervise closely.
Your goal is for the trip to be a positive, stress-free memory — not a vet visit.
Think ahead, too. Dress your dog appropriately for the weather. If it’s snowy or cold, a jacket or sweater is a good idea.
Bring water and maybe a portable bowl, especially if you’ll be walking through a farm for a while.
Cold weather can dehydrate dogs faster than you’d expect, so make sure they stay hydrated.
Finally, let the holiday spirit guide your behavior. Be courteous to other families, be responsible about waste, and prioritize your dog’s comfort.
When done right, a trip to a Christmas tree farm with your dog is more than a chore — it’s a joyful adventure that adds light and love to the season.
At the end of the day, the goal is simple: to enjoy the magic of the holidays together.
When your dog safely explores the pines, you’re not just picking out a tree — you’re making a memory. One that’s festive, meaningful, and full of wagging tails.
Let this be the year your dog remembers more than just the treats under the tree — but the walk, the snow, the smells, and the sheer joy of being a part of something special.
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