Spending the Holidays Alone with Your Shih Tzu: Tips for a Special Day

Overview

If you've found this article, chances are you're planning to spend the holidays alone with your Shih Tzu. And if so, we’re so glad you've arrived here.

There are countless reasons someone may find themselves spending the holidays solo with their dog, whether by choice or circumstance. But, with your sweet companion by your side and a thoughtful plan for the day, you can create a celebration that’s just as meaningful as any large gathering. Here are some suggestions to help make the holiday special and sprinkled with joy, relaxation, and moments you and your Shih Tzu will treasure.

Please note: AllShihTzu is reader-supported. Some links below are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission on products through these, at no extra cost to you.

Start the Day with a Cozy Morning Ritual

Holidays should feel different from your regular routine, and mornings are a great time to set the tone for the day. Here are some ideas:

Create a special breakfast: Cook up something comforting for yourself, like pancakes, French toast or an omelet, and make your Shih Tzu a special holiday breakfast, such as scrambled eggs (without salt or seasoning) or plain cooked chicken and some berries mixed in with their regular food.
Snuggle time: Enjoy a quiet morning together with some snuggles on the couch or in bed. Throw on a holiday movie or your favorite playlist to create a cozy atmosphere.

Plan a Festive Walk or Outing

Many Shih Tzus love a good stroll, and a holiday walk can be extra special. This can be done on the evenings leading up to a holiday such as Christmas Eve or on the day itself. These tips can help you plan for this:

Dress the part: If your Shih Tzu enjoys wearing clothes, consider dressing them in a festive sweater or add a holiday bandana once they have their harness or winter vest on.
Choose a scenic route: Check your local news for the best holiday lights in your area; these may be along downtown routes, in parks or other places. Even a stroll in a beautifully decorated neighborhood can be a wonderful way to share something special with your Shih Tzu. Enjoy the crisp air and take photos to commemorate the day.
Note: If the weather isn’t ideal, think about creating an indoor adventure by setting up an obstacle course with blankets, pillows, and furniture. Your Shih Tzu will love exploring and playing with you.

Bake a Holiday Treat for Your Shih Tzu

Cooking or baking for your Shih Tzu is a thoughtful way to include them in holiday festivities. Homemade cookies for canines can be a simple, healthy treat that your sweetie will love. Here's a recipe that’s easy to make and nutritious.

Holiday Cookies for Canines: Pumpkin and Apple Bites

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened canned pumpkin
1 small apple, finely grated (peeled and cored)
1 egg
2 tablespoons plain peanut butter (ensure it contains no xylitol)
1 ½ cups oat flour (or grind oats into a fine powder using a blender)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin, grated apple, egg, and peanut butter. Stir until smooth.
Incorporate the dry ingredients: Slowly add the oat flour and cinnamon to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a little more oat flour.
Roll and cut shapes: Lightly flour your surface with oat flour. Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness and use small cookie cutters (stars, bones, or holiday shapes) to cut out the cookies.
Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re firm and golden.
Cool completely: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze them for longer freshness.

Tip: Don’t forget to buy or bake yourself a special holiday treat as well!

Create a Festive Atmosphere at Home

You don’t need a bustling house to enjoy the magic of the holidays. A cozy, festive environment can make the day feel special for both you and your Shih Tzu. Here are some ideas:

Decorate together: With your sweetie by your side, hang twinkling lights, set up a small tree (secure it to prevent accidents), or arrange a decorative centerpiece. Your Shih Tzu will be curious and excited by the new sights and smells, adding to the fun.
Play holiday music: Create a playlist of your favorite seasonal tunes to fill the home with cheerful energy. Soft, soothing music can also help keep your Shih Tzu relaxed.
Enhance the ambiance safely: A few battery-operated LED candles or string lights can add a comforting, joyful glow. For a festive scent, simmer a pot of dog-safe ingredients like cinnamon sticks, rosemary, orange peels and cranberries on the stove for a natural holiday aroma.
Take time to relax and soak in the cozy atmosphere you’ve created. Curl up with a blanket, your Shih Tzu, and a good book or holiday movie. Sharing this peaceful environment can strengthen your bond and make the holiday feel truly special.

Plan Special Activities for Your Shih Tzu

Holidays are the perfect opportunity to make your Shih Tzu feel loved and celebrated. Since your pup is your constant companion, taking a little extra time to focus on their happiness can make the day even more meaningful for both of you. With a few thoughtful activities, you can ensure your Shih Tzu feels just as special as they make you feel every day. Here are some ideas to consider:

Playtime: Playing hide-and-seek with treats or their favorite squeaky toy is a great way to engage a Shih Tzu’s natural curiosity and keep them active. Short bursts of play like this are perfect for Shih Tzus, who thrive on mental stimulation.
Pamper them: Treat your Shih Tzu to a relaxing spa moment with a gentle brushing session or a soothing bath (if they enjoy this). This not only can help them look their best but also can provide calming one-on-one bonding time.
Give a holiday gift: Wrap a new toy or treat and let your Shih Tzu “unwrap” it. Their excitement as they tear into the wrapping will be contagious and brighten your day just as much as theirs.

Note: If you're looking for some wonderful gift ideas, you may want to check out our 10 under 10 article, which lists our top picks for helpful care items under ten smackers!

You may also love our updated Best Interactive Toys for a Shih Tzu, that shows you exactly which toys work to keep a Shih Tzu busy and why they are helpful.

And, 3 of our favorite, current picks for toys are:

The Snuffle Mat by Meilzer. This is a beautiful felt flower garden with all types of hiding spots for tiny (healthy) treats. It allows a Shih Tzu to engage their sense of smell which is a wonderful way to stay busy and gain self-confidence. It's so much fun for dogs of all ages and it's fun for their humans who watch them play with it.

The PetStages DogWood Toy. This is for Shih Tzu that love to chew! It's a made-in-the-USA toy that feels, looks and smells like real wood. But, it's safe and doesn't splinter. It stands up to pretty aggressive chewers and comes in 4 different sizes.

And this adorable Holiday Reindeer by YuePet that is sized for small dogs is a cute toy we just found for the season. It has a squeaker and good texture for little teeth.

Share the Holiday Spirit with Others

Even if it’s just you and your Shih Tzu at home, the holiday season is a wonderful time to spread joy and connect with others in meaningful ways. By involving your Shih Tzu, you can create a ripple effect of cheer that extends beyond your home. Here are some ideas that may resonate with you:

Send holiday greetings: If you have friends or family to reach out to, consider taking festive photos of your day to share with them. Include your Shih Tzu dressed in a cute holiday outfit or surrounded by decorations.
Consider becoming a pen pal for those who may feel isolated during the holidays, such as soldiers or elderly individuals in nursing homes. Organizations like AnySoldier (which connects penpal volunteers with service members who are seeking correspondence) or one like Love for Our Elders (for seniors) welcome heartfelt letters, cards, and even pet photos to brighten someone’s day. Please Note: Before engaging with any organization, it's advisable to research their programs and ensure they align with your intentions for correspondence.
Donate in your dog’s name: Celebrate the season by giving back to animals in need. Donate toys, food, or blankets to a local shelter or rescue group. Some organizations even offer holiday-themed sponsorships, allowing you to “gift” an animal in need a warm meal or medical care. Attach your Shih Tzu’s name to the donation for a personal and meaningful touch.
Connect with neighbors: If you live in a pet-friendly neighborhood, consider putting together small holiday treat bags for dogs nearby. Include a handwritten note and let your Shih Tzu help deliver them during a holiday walk. It’s a simple way to spread joy and foster community bonds.
Start a tradition of giving: Make it an annual ritual to honor your Shih Tzu by helping others. Whether it’s baking homemade dog treats for shelter pups or contributing to an animal charity, small acts of kindness can create a lasting impact and make the holidays feel even more special.

Reflect and Set Intentions for the New Year

Spending a quiet holiday can be a great time to pause and reflect on the year while planning for the next. You can do this by:

Having gratitude time: Write down what you’re thankful for, including the joy your Shih Tzu brings into your life.
Setting goals: Think about adventures you want to share with your little guy or gal in the coming year. Whether it’s trying new trails, teaching them a new trick, or simply spending more quality time together. Let this be a grounding and heartwarming activity that reminds you of the love and companionship you share with your Shih Tzu.

Final Thoughts

Whether spending the holiday alone is something you've done before or it’s new this year, having your Shih Tzu by your side can make it special. It’s a chance to focus on what truly matters: love, companionship, and making the most of the time you share. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn the day into a celebration of your bond and create simple, joyful memories.

Remember, the holidays aren’t defined by the size of the gathering but by the joy and warmth you create... and this is something your Shih Tzu provides in abundance!

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