’Tis the season to be jolly, but for some dog owners, the holiday cheer can wear thin once their furry companions decide they’ve had enough of a bustling household.
Dogs thrive on routine, from waking up to going to bed at the same time each day—something most owners stick to during the working week. What dogs don’t understand, however, are holidays. During festive periods, owners are far more likely to go off script, and familiar schedules often fall by the wayside.
While inviting loved ones over may be exciting for your pup at first, once the clock hits their usual bedtime, some dogs begin to act out—signaling that the party has gone on long enough.
To help owners recognize these cues, Newsweek spoke with animal behaviorist Bryana Peters, who shared the key signs that indicate a dog is ready for the evening to wind down.
Body Language Signals
Peters, who works at Lost Our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe, Arizona, said subtle changes in body language are often the first signs a dog has had enough. These include:
- Avoidance
- “Whale eye” (showing the whites of the eyes)
- Lip licking
- Shifting away from touch
- Tightly closed mouth
- Tucked tail
Peters said: “These behaviors can signal discomfort and a desire for space.”
Removing Themselves From the Situation
Some dogs make their feelings clear by simply leaving the room. Newsweek has previously reported on dogs who put themselves to bed—like this short-tempered Shih Tzu caught on camera barking furiously at his owner for being two minutes late to bedtime.
“That’s exactly what some dogs do when they’ve had enough of socializing—they seek out peace and quiet,” Peters said. Others may not fully retreat but instead pace restlessly around the house.
Displacement Behaviors
“If your dog suddenly starts sniffing the floor or grooming themselves, these may be displacement signs,” Peters told Newsweek.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, when confronted with an uncomfortable situation, dogs often try to “escape” by redirecting their attention elsewhere. These behaviors are coping mechanisms—not quirks—and should be taken seriously.
Losing Interest in Favorite Activities
A sudden lack of enthusiasm can also be a red flag. Peters said if a dog was previously eager to engage with toys, treats or play but suddenly loses interest, it may be a sign they’re overwhelmed. “At that point, it may be time to call it a night,” she said.
Vocalizations
Owners may assume their dog is trying to join in on Christmas carols or get involved with board games when they begin barking or grumbling out of nowhere. But Peters said vocalizations at this stage are more likely an expression of frustration or fear.
“They’re done engaging and are now being vocal about it,” she said.
For dog owners navigating busy holiday gatherings, recognizing and respecting these signals can help keep both pets and people calm—and ensure the season stays merry for everyone involved.
