December may bring chilly mornings—even here in the South—and your puppy needs a little extra TLC during the winter months. Whether you’re bringing home a new furry family member or caring for the dog you already adore, here’s how to keep them safe, warm, and happy all season long.

1. Protect Your Puppy from the Cold

Puppies can’t regulate their temperatures as well as adult dogs. When the temperatures dip:

• Limit outdoor time
• Consider a warm sweater or jacket for tiny breeds
• Dry their paws after every walk
• Provide a warm sleeping area away from drafts

If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them!

2. Watch Out for Holiday Hazards

The holiday season is full of fun but also unexpected puppy dangers. Keep an eye out for:

• Chocolate and candy
• Toxic plants (poinsettias, mistletoe, lilies)
• Tinsel and tiny ornaments
• Wrapping paper and ribbon
• Electrical cords from lights

At Bark Street Puppies, we always remind our new owners: puppies explore the world with their mouths!

3. Stick to a Feeding Routine

With holiday food everywhere, it’s tempting to slip your puppy scraps—but many human foods can upset their stomach. Keep feedings consistent with the high-quality puppy foods we recommend at pickup.

4. Keep Training Going (Even During the Holidays)

Consistency is key for potty training, crate training, and socialization. If you’re hosting holiday guests, use this as a chance to expose your puppy to new people and sounds—but make sure they have a quiet space when they need a break.

5. Don’t Skip Exercise

Even with colder weather, your puppy still needs daily play and movement to burn off energy and support healthy development.
A few fun indoor options:

• Tug-of-war
• Fetch in the hallway
• Puzzle toys
• Short training sessions
• Hide-and-seek with treats

6. Schedule Grooming Early

December grooming appointments fill up fast. Many doodle and fluffy-coat families don’t realize how quickly mats can form during the winter—especially with sweaters, rain, or wet grass.
Book early to keep your puppy clean, comfortable, and tangle-free.

7. Winter Is the Perfect Time for Bonding

Extra time at home during the holidays makes December a wonderful month to bond with your new puppy. Snuggles, training, playtime, exploring your neighborhood—these moments shape their confidence and connection with you.

Whether you’re bringing home a puppy this Christmas or preparing for the new year, Bark Street Puppies is here with guidance, support, and unmatched care. Visit BarkStreetPuppies.com to view available puppies and learn more about responsible adoption.