Dog-Friendly Christmas Markets: Top Alternatives and Safety Tips

Looking to bring your four-legged friend along for some festive fun? You’re not alone! With searches for 'dog-friendly Christmas markets' up +666% over the past 30 days*, many of us will be looking to take our dogs along with us to the markets this year.

 To help you and your pup enjoy a cheerful, safe day out, the team at Canine Cottages has compiled a list of the most dog-friendly market alternatives across the UK, along with top safety tips from Clinical Animal Behaviourist Rachel Rodgers.

Dog-friendly Christmas market alternatives

Here’s a roundup of more relaxed Christmas market options where dogs are welcome, so you can enjoy all the festive fun together:

Top tips for a tail-wagging market adventure

Canine Cottages has teamed up with Clinical Animal Behaviourist Rachel Rodgers to offer some simple yet insightful advice for ensuring your pup’s safety and comfort.

Get your pup prepared

Taking your pooch to a bustling market can be a big leap, especially if they’re used to quieter settings. Rachel suggests familiarising them with crowds and urban sounds gradually. For an added boost, try playing sounds from Dogs Trust on SoundCloud to get them used to the noise of crowds, cars, and other lively sounds they might encounter.

Choose the right equipment

For a smooth and enjoyable experience, Rachel advises using a secure, short lead and a Y-shaped harness. Avoid long or retractable leads, which can lead to mischievous detours and potential tripping hazards – after all, no one wants their pup sneaking off behind stalls for a snack! A standard lead of around 3 feet (1 metre) is ideal.

Monitor your pup’s comfort

Not all dogs love crowds, and some may feel nervous around new sights and sounds. Look for signs of discomfort, like tucked tails, pinned-back ears, or lip licking. “Be prepared to leave if your dog seems overwhelmed,” Rachel advises. “Their happiness and safety come first.” Give your pup regular “sniff breaks” on patches of grass and reward them with treats whenever they handle a new experience calmly.

Watch out for potential hazards

From tasty holiday treats to winter grit, markets can present a few hidden dangers. Keep an eye out for hazards like:

• Mulled wine and alcohol: these festive drinks are toxic for dogs, so keep them safely out of reach and bring a water bottle to keep your pup hydrated.
• Onions and other foods: some food stalls, like bratwurst stands, often have chopped onions that can be harmful to dogs. Stick to well-lit markets where you can spot and avoid these risks.
• Winter grit: helpful for icy paths, but dangerous if ingested. When you get home, rinse your dog’s paws to keep them from licking off any residue.

To read more about Christmas markets to take your four-legged best friend, visit Canine Cottages blog here.