Everyday Is A Party With A Dog - Party Time Considerations

First, I do not have the attitude that guests come into my dogs' home and therefore guests must tolerate my dogs' behavior. No. I do hope that my guests tolerate my dogs' presence because I don't want to think about sequestering my dogs. I hope my guests will tolerate dog hair on their clothing, some drooling, and two dog beds in front of the fireplace. These are things I cannot control or will not change, but I do not expect my guests to be unafraid, if they are in fact afraid, of dogs, or be forced to interact with my dogs. I do not expect my guests to tolerate bad manners.

Some things I think are important to consider for your dogs' and your guests' party enjoyment:
1. Underfootedness
2. Door manners
3. Food avoidance
4. Overstimulation
5. Lint brushes in every bathroom
6. Dressing up

Addressing 1: Underfootedness
Dogs are dependent on us and they are aware of our emotions. Not all dogs respond the same, but your stress is felt by your dog. If you are stressed, or even simply excited, about your party, your dog may become more clingy and underfoot, or he may stay far away.

The underfoot option can be dangerous for you, your dog and your guests. You don't want anyone stepping on or tripping over your dog. One option to help with this is to have a space for your dog to be as you prepare food and greet guests. A dog bed within sight of all the action is often a good choice.

Addressing 2: Door Manners
While dogs can be curious, calm and polite at the door, not all guests want to be sniffed when they arrive. The dog bed within sight of the door can be used in this instance as well.

Addressing 3: Food Avoidance
If you allow your dog to share your food, eat anything that falls to the floor, or pilfer food from counters or tables, parties can be especially chaotic, tempting and dangerous. No one wants a dog begging as they eat, but no one wants a dog sprinting toward her feet to snatch a fallen meatball either. It is a terrible lack of manners, but also a fallen tomato or hot pepper can make your dog sick. A fallen macadamia nut or handful of M&M's could kill him.

If you need ideas for how to teach these manners and boundaries, just ask. I'll cover the rest of the list in the next post.

Until then, here's a look at one of my favorite party guests: