Visiting with Your Dog How to Prepare for Trips and Social Gatherings

Going to visit family, attending friendly get-togethers, or staying with friends-for humans, these are joyful moments. But for dogs, unfamiliar environments, new people, strange smells, or other animals can be overwhelming.

The good news is: you can teach your dog how to behave calmly and confidently in someone else’s home. It’s a valuable life skill that improves your dog’s socialisation, builds your bond, and gives you more freedom to include your pup in daily life.

1. Is Your Dog Ready?

Before you bring your dog along to someone else’s home, ask yourself:

• Is your dog okay with car rides or public transport?

• Does your dog know basic commands like “place,” “quiet,” “leave it,” “heel”?

• How does your dog react to new people, animals, or environments?

If your dog struggles with anxiety, overexcitement, or reactivity, it’s best to work on these challenges first with a professional trainer.

2. Start Small and Stay Short

Don’t begin with a busy dinner party. Choose a quiet, dog-friendly household and keep the first visit short-30 to 60 minutes. Take a walk nearby first so your dog can relax and sniff the new environment before entering.

3. Pack a Doggy Travel Kit

Make your dog feel at home with familiar items. Bring:

• A mat, blanket, or travel crate (their “safe space”)

• Water bowl and fresh water

• Treats and a favorite toy

• Poop bags

• Leash and muzzle (if required)

Familiar smells and items help reduce anxiety and give your dog a safe place to retreat to.

4. Set Clear Boundaries

Check in with your host in advance:

• Are dogs allowed indoors?

• Are there kids, cats, or other dogs in the home?

• Are there areas or furniture the dog should avoid?

Be respectful-supervise your dog at all times. Even well-trained dogs may behave differently in a new space with new stimuli.

5. Practice Calm Behaviors

Commands like “place,” “settle,” “quiet,” and “leave it” are your best friends during visits. Practice these in advance in different locations. Reward your dog for calm behavior in new places.

If your dog shows signs of stress or overstimulation, don’t push it-give them space, or take a break outside.

6. Don’t Overstay

The first few visits should be short and positive. One or two hours is more than enough. Leaving before your dog becomes overstimulated helps create a strong, positive association with future visits.

Final Thoughts

Teaching your dog how to behave in someone else’s home is a mix of training, observation, and trust. With a bit of preparation and a lot of patience, your dog can become a calm and polite guest anywhere.

Need help getting started? Our team can help you and your dog build confidence, social skills, and the calm mindset needed for real-world situations-from short visits to big celebrations. 🐾