Woof, I'm Alma, your dachshund lady with the best tips for a relaxed New Year's Eve! People love those "fireworks" – loud bangs and colorful flashes in the sky. Me? Not so much. If you have a dog who, like me, is a little afraid of the noise, or you're celebrating your first New Year's Eve together, I have some clever dachshund advice for you.
Preparation is everything – my dachshund plan for a stress-free New Year’s Eve
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Quiet please!
We dogs like it quiet and cozy. I turn the apartment into my little retreat the day before:- Close the curtains or lower the blinds.
- Play quiet music or leave the TV on – this will help drown out the bangs outside.
- A soft basket in a quiet corner is worth its weight in gold!
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Training for the ears
If I've never experienced New Year's Eve before, I'll slowly get used to loud noises. There are even special sound CDs or videos of fireworks that you can play at a low volume during the day. But be careful: Never overdo it, or I'll get even more nervous. -
Safety first
When we go outside, put me in a well-fitting harness with a secure leash. Loud bangs can scare us dogs, and we might run away in a panic—no one wants that, right? Also, please, no long walks right before midnight.
On New Year's Eve: Stay cool, people!
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Be my rock in the storm
If I'm nervous, stay calm. If you're tense yourself, I'll notice it right away! Don't comfort me too much, because that could only increase my anxiety. Instead, show me that everything's okay. -
Employment is distracting
Give me something to keep me occupied—a chew bone, an intelligence toy, or my favorite game. If I'm busy chewing or thinking, I might forget that the sky is exploding outside. -
Emergency plan for scaredy cats
Some dogs (yes, I sometimes too) need a little extra support. Bach flower remedies, calming essential oils, or a special anti-stress shirt can help. Talk to my vet beforehand if you'd like to try something.
The first New Year's Eve together – tips for beginners
Did you recently bring me into your family? Then the first New Year's Eve is especially exciting. But please don't overwhelm me:
- Stay with me. Even if you feel like popping the corks, I don't like being alone this evening. Stay with me and, when it gets really loud outside, make yourself comfortable with me on the sofa. Grab a cup of tea (preferably from your favorite Alma and Gustl mug ) and radiate relaxation for me.
- No surprises. No loud parties, no crowds, and please no spontaneous fireworks right in front of me. I'm brave, but I don't have that much dachshund power.
- Getting used to it takes time. If I'm still unsure, give me the chance to slowly learn that New Year's Eve isn't the end of the world.
What you should n't do
- Lighting rockets yourself? Better not. Trust me, your dog will thank you if you leave the fireworks to the professionals.
- Showing off fireworks? Not a good idea. Don't let me stand outside and watch you launch rockets—it's far too dangerous.
- "Oh, he'll get used to it"? No way! We dogs don't forget such stressful moments so quickly. So it's better to be cautious than careless.
And after midnight? Dachshund walk deluxe!
When the air is clear and calm again, you can take me for a walk. It's best to keep me on a leash and keep your eyes open—there might still be remnants of firecrackers lying around everywhere, and I'm curious!
My New Year's wish: Together instead of alone
We dogs are pack animals, and our greatest wish is to spend this special night with you – safe, relaxed, and close to me. New Year's Eve doesn't have to be a stressful party for us, but rather a beautiful evening that we can enjoy together.
With that in mind: Have a great New Year – and don’t forget that a relaxed owner is the best New Year’s gift for any dog!
Woofy greetings,
your Alma
Cover image generated with AI
