Making your dog a parto of the party

McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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An increasing number of people are including their pets in their holiday celebrations. Here are tips from the November/December issue of the American Kennel Club Family Dog magazine on making your dog a welcome guest:

Most people know that chocolate is toxic to canines, but make sure your guests know that grapes, raisins, onions, icing and even bones are off-limits to your dogs.

Keep food off coffee or side tables. Instead, place party fare on the dining-room table or kitchen counter and pull the chairs far away from the table.

Assign a friend or family member to work as a "watcher" to make sure no one is slipping your pup any food and to make sure guests don't let the dog out.

When inviting guests, remind them that you have a dog and that she will be mingling among the crowd.

Even the most well-adjusted dogs can get excited or nervous when greeted with throngs of people. Set a calm and relaxing tone by asking guests to help themselves to drinks and hors d'oeuvres, and at the same time, to leave the dog be.

Put your dog on a running leash for the beginning of the party if you're worried about him being overfriendly. Undo the leash after the dog has adjusted so he can enter a calm environment.

Designate a safe area for your dog so she can retreat from the crowds, particularly if it's a noisy affair.

Hang signs that remind your guests to keep doors closed and, of course, tag and microchip your dog in case anything happens.

Consider sending your dog to a pet sitter, puppy play date or doggy day care if you are worried about how your dog is going to react.

Make sure your pet is properly trained, groomed and cleaned before allowing him to attend the party.

Consider purchasing a sparkly "party collar" with your dog's name on it. This will evoke comment and reminds guests that this dog is a part of the family: She has a name and should be treated with respect.

Make sure your house is in proper order, especially if your dog sheds.