WWYD? Re: Xmas Eve Gathering - YorkieTalk.com Forums

Roxiesmama · 12-18-2011, 02:17 PM

Every year my family comes to my house for Christmas Eve dinner and celebration. I live in a townhouse, which is not always suitable for all 13 of us (5 kids included!).

The first year we had Roxie we gated her in the kitchen for the night. It didn't work out so well with all the cooking and whatnot.

Last year we decided to just let her roam free. Also not a good idea. My twin nieces chased her around all night until she was cowering behind me. I was also terrified she was going to eat something that fell on the floor. Eventually, we put her in her playpen in the loft upstairs, but she barked nonstop the rest of the night because she could hear all the commotion downstairs.

This year we thought we would put her playpen in our bedroom upstairs and close the door. I know she will hate it, but I don't really know what else to do. I also know that my SIL will give me a hard time. Roxie used to be her dog, and she wants to see her when she is here.

WWYD in my situation?

Micah my love · 12-18-2011, 02:38 PM

Ask if someone else could have it at their house this year

smallmans · 12-18-2011, 02:48 PM

We face this often with our little Bella. She loves to be around people, but I think it gets stressful after a few minutes trying to decide who she should give her attention to and trying to dodge feet, etc. I think she actually is relieved if she doesn't have to be part of a larger gathering. We have found that putting her in her expen in the bedroom with the door closed and the TV on has eliminated her barking. If she can't hear specific voices, ours, she seems to calm down. The TV masks the voices in the other parts of the house. We put food, toys, her bed, and her travel bag (her favorite safe place) in the expen with her. We let her come out when most of the people have left and it is down to the last few people. We just explained to everyone that large crowds were exhausting for her. Although they were disappointed, they understood. Everyone was very supportive. We also can peek on her through the window throughout the gathering to make sure she is okay. Each time we've checked she was dozing or watching the TV, we put Animal Planet on.
Hope this helps.

yorkiemini · 12-18-2011, 02:52 PM

Makes no difference what the space is, it is always good when family gathers. I have had the same problem you are describing. Mug solution may not be right for you but I will share my solution which has worked well

First, it is Roxies's house so putting her out of the action will always be a stressor for her - therefore , the barking in the past.

Second, guest have to realize this is Roxies's house also..

I put my Cali in her playpen some where that is right in the midst of the action - she gets to know what is going on but is protected from the action and big feet.

The children have to be told that the dog is not their toy and may not be hassled, teased or otherwise abused.

Roxie will not want to be in the playpen, but you know itis the safest place for her and she will be able to sees all the action and even get a pet now and then when you pass by, and you will not be worried about her.

I also tell folks, no feeding the pup or she might get sick.

Sooooo, this works well for us. The guests now know the drill and after 3 years the kids have even grown up to be able to give her some special treats I have planned for them to give her a certain times.

Of course, anything you do must be right for you and what is important is keeping Roxie safe and comfortable.

Have a Merry Christmas and enjoy your family! We are looking forward to our Christmas gathering again this year -- Cali loves it!

Mom2TwoYorkies · 12-18-2011, 03:03 PM

I am in the same situation and I absolutely HATE having to put my dogs away in their own house! My niece's son is 5 now and you'd figure by now he'd not be so horrible acting . . .WRONG! Last year I tried gating them in the hallway, but they really hated that and my niece's son would purposely tease them to make them riled up . . .it was extremely stressful when nobody besides myself was telling him to knock it off.

The year prior to that, the dogs were with all of us and Brody disliked the little boy and was barking at him and every time I tried to tell him just to sit down and let Brody smell him and to pet him nice, he'd stamp his feet and scream and run from Brody just to aggravate him, Brody started to go after him and this little boy at age 3 mind you swung back his leg and was going to literally kick Brody . . .I screamed NOOOOO and picked Brody up . . I mean, really?

So, this year, they are going upstairs in my daughter's old room with the door closed so they won't be teased. They are going to hate it, but unfortunately I cannot tell my niece he's not invited (oh how I wish I could)! I don't think there is any hope for that kid if he cannot control himself in other people's homes . . .the problem is he was never told NO.

I get myself so aggravated about Christmas Eve every year and I just want it to be a night where we can all have a good time and enjoy each other as a family . . .

gemy · 12-18-2011, 03:11 PM

Our solution with three dogs, no matter the mix of company, is to put them in their crates in their room. And yes we get barking, which we correct. Then when things have settled (of they have settled), we bring out one dog at a time, to greet guests, and be part of the "pack". But that is when I and hubby can be there with our guests. After present opening, dinner etc. Well actually we will let out one our Magic, to be a good boy when we eat dinner. After dessert, coffee, one at a time we bring out the others.
This won't work in all situations. With stranger's small children, we simply will not bring them out. Been there, done that. Not worth it.

Micah my love · 12-18-2011, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mom2TwoYorkies

I am in the same situation and I absolutely HATE having to put my dogs away in their own house! My niece's son is 5 now and you'd figure by now he'd not be so horrible acting . . .WRONG! Last year I tried gating them in the hallway, but they really hated that and my niece's son would purposely tease them to make them riled up . . .it was extremely stressful when nobody besides myself was telling him to knock it off.

The year prior to that, the dogs were with all of us and Brody disliked the little boy and was barking at him and every time I tried to tell him just to sit down and let Brody smell him and to pet him nice, he'd stamp his feet and scream and run from Brody just to aggravate him, Brody started to go after him and this little boy at age 3 mind you swung back his leg and was going to literally kick Brody . . .I screamed NOOOOO and picked Brody up . . I mean, really?

So, this year, they are going upstairs in my daughter's old room with the door closed so they won't be teased. They are going to hate it, but unfortunately I cannot tell my niece he's not invited (oh how I wish I could)! I don't think there is any hope for that kid if he cannot control himself in other people's homes . . .the problem is he was never told NO.

I get myself so aggravated about Christmas Eve every year and I just want it to be a night where we can all have a good time and enjoy each other as a family . . .

I so understand what you are saying.. my now DIL came with a grandson that drives me nuts,he likes to keep the dogs barking and they hate him...I can not enjoy my family for him and she is blind & deaf to anything he does...

If he comes this year i am going to lock them in another room until he is gone

Mom2TwoYorkies · 12-18-2011, 03:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Micah my love

I so understand what you are saying.. my now DIL came with a grandson that drives me nuts,he likes to keep the dogs barking and they hate him...I can not enjoy my family for him and she is blind & deaf to anything he does...

If he comes this year i am going to lock them in another room until he is gone

Exactly! We might be talking about the same child . . .lol

Micah my love · 12-18-2011, 03:26 PM

LOL it sure sounds that way

I love children but this one is something else, all 78 lbs

Mom2TwoYorkies · 12-18-2011, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Micah my love

LOL it sure sounds that way

I love children but this one is something else, all 78 lbs

Me too! I don't know if its because I'm old now or what, but this kid . OMG he needs some self control . . .

My kids are 22 and 18 and they were very good kids, they knew how to behave not only in their own home, but out as well and all I had to do was give them the "look" when they were acting out and that was it . . .

I don't know why my niece lets him get away with all that . . .

She's only asking for trouble later on . . .

Micah my love · 12-18-2011, 04:03 PM

Seems a lot are taking this route anymore...

MorkieMomma · 12-18-2011, 04:12 PM

I would actually put her playpen in the livingroom, where all of her human friends are. Putting her upstairs makes her feel left out (like a little kid) and I think that could be why she's yapping (barking). She's saying "Helllooooo I'm HERE!" lol!

I'd put it in the congregation area of the holiday event, and just let people know that they can reach in and gently pet her if they wish, but that you would prefer it if they would not take her out of the playpen under any circumstances. I'd also ask your brother or sister (whoever is the parent of the nieces) to have a talk with their kids about her, and make sure they adhere to your 'yorkie rules' of not taking her out.

I think she'd do better if her playpen was in the main area, so she doesn't feel like she's not being included. Maybe put an extra yummy holiday treat in there with her, or a Santa's Elf Dog to gnaw on (something new and special).

I'm not a dog expert...just adding my two cents =)

Teresa Ford · 12-18-2011, 04:14 PM

I just tick every one off right away. I anounce that the dogs are in their play pen. And have to stay there No one is allowed to feed them or pick them up. Anyone who teases them or makes them bark gets a 5 min. time out on the green chair. Be sure to state the time limit and time out place. It worked for me and mine.

dinkyweil · 12-18-2011, 05:20 PM

My husband just carries the dog around with him the entire night. The biggest issue is little kids. They just do not want to leave him alone. Most of the time, they go away after a little gentle supervised petting. My husband once told one mother of a little girl who would not stop after we told her to over and over again that we were worried that he would bite her because he was so tired.

southernbelle04 · 12-18-2011, 05:23 PM

I was thinking of putting the playpen in the living room too. This is what we will be doing with Katie Scarlett. We want her right there with us so she can feel 'in' on the action, but no underfoot where she could be stepped on or get into things she should not. I also would let the children know that they are not allowed to play with her unless an adult is present so they won't chase her and scare her. Maybe give her a favorite treat or a new toy for a sort of 'prize' for staying in her playpen like a good girl. This is our plan. Good luck to you! And Happy Holidays!

12-18-2011, 02:17 PM	#1
Roxiesmama Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: NY Posts: 849	WWYD? Re: Xmas Eve Gathering Every year my family comes to my house for Christmas Eve dinner and celebration. I live in a townhouse, which is not always suitable for all 13 of us (5 kids included!). The first year we had Roxie we gated her in the kitchen for the night. It didn't work out so well with all the cooking and whatnot. Last year we decided to just let her roam free. Also not a good idea. My twin nieces chased her around all night until she was cowering behind me. I was also terrified she was going to eat something that fell on the floor. Eventually, we put her in her playpen in the loft upstairs, but she barked nonstop the rest of the night because she could hear all the commotion downstairs. This year we thought we would put her playpen in our bedroom upstairs and close the door. I know she will hate it, but I don't really know what else to do. I also know that my SIL will give me a hard time. Roxie used to be her dog, and she wants to see her when she is here. WWYD in my situation? __________________ Roxie

12-18-2011, 02:38 PM	#2
Micah my love Donating YT 100K Club Member & Top YorkieTalk Poster! Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: western KY Posts: 108,935	Ask if someone else could have it at their house this year __________________ Betty & Micah my love + Yogi

12-18-2011, 02:48 PM	#3
smallmans YT Addict Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Mesa, Arizona Posts: 313	Been There, Done That!! We face this often with our little Bella. She loves to be around people, but I think it gets stressful after a few minutes trying to decide who she should give her attention to and trying to dodge feet, etc. I think she actually is relieved if she doesn't have to be part of a larger gathering. We have found that putting her in her expen in the bedroom with the door closed and the TV on has eliminated her barking. If she can't hear specific voices, ours, she seems to calm down. The TV masks the voices in the other parts of the house. We put food, toys, her bed, and her travel bag (her favorite safe place) in the expen with her. We let her come out when most of the people have left and it is down to the last few people. We just explained to everyone that large crowds were exhausting for her. Although they were disappointed, they understood. Everyone was very supportive. We also can peek on her through the window throughout the gathering to make sure she is okay. Each time we've checked she was dozing or watching the TV, we put Animal Planet on. Hope this helps.

12-18-2011, 02:52 PM	#4
yorkiemini Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: USA Posts: 4,285	Makes no difference what the space is, it is always good when family gathers. I have had the same problem you are describing. Mug solution may not be right for you but I will share my solution which has worked well First, it is Roxies's house so putting her out of the action will always be a stressor for her - therefore , the barking in the past. Second, guest have to realize this is Roxies's house also.. I put my Cali in her playpen some where that is right in the midst of the action - she gets to know what is going on but is protected from the action and big feet. The children have to be told that the dog is not their toy and may not be hassled, teased or otherwise abused. Roxie will not want to be in the playpen, but you know itis the safest place for her and she will be able to sees all the action and even get a pet now and then when you pass by, and you will not be worried about her. I also tell folks, no feeding the pup or she might get sick. Sooooo, this works well for us. The guests now know the drill and after 3 years the kids have even grown up to be able to give her some special treats I have planned for them to give her a certain times. Of course, anything you do must be right for you and what is important is keeping Roxie safe and comfortable. Have a Merry Christmas and enjoy your family! We are looking forward to our Christmas gathering again this year -- Cali loves it! __________________ . Cali , and Cali's keeper and staff, Jay No, not a "mini" Yorkie - She loves to motor in her Mini Cooper car

12-18-2011, 03:03 PM	#5
Mom2TwoYorkies YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Connecticut Posts: 1,306	I am in the same situation and I absolutely HATE having to put my dogs away in their own house! My niece's son is 5 now and you'd figure by now he'd not be so horrible acting . . .WRONG! Last year I tried gating them in the hallway, but they really hated that and my niece's son would purposely tease them to make them riled up . . .it was extremely stressful when nobody besides myself was telling him to knock it off. The year prior to that, the dogs were with all of us and Brody disliked the little boy and was barking at him and every time I tried to tell him just to sit down and let Brody smell him and to pet him nice, he'd stamp his feet and scream and run from Brody just to aggravate him, Brody started to go after him and this little boy at age 3 mind you swung back his leg and was going to literally kick Brody . . .I screamed NOOOOO and picked Brody up . . I mean, really? So, this year, they are going upstairs in my daughter's old room with the door closed so they won't be teased. They are going to hate it, but unfortunately I cannot tell my niece he's not invited (oh how I wish I could)! I don't think there is any hope for that kid if he cannot control himself in other people's homes . . .the problem is he was never told NO. I get myself so aggravated about Christmas Eve every year and I just want it to be a night where we can all have a good time and enjoy each other as a family . . . __________________ Deb, Mommy to: Brody & Rhianna Belle

12-18-2011, 03:11 PM	#6
gemy YT 2000 Club Donating Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Huntsville,Ont,Canaada Posts: 12,335 Blog Entries: 2	Our solution with three dogs, no matter the mix of company, is to put them in their crates in their room. And yes we get barking, which we correct. Then when things have settled (of they have settled), we bring out one dog at a time, to greet guests, and be part of the "pack". But that is when I and hubby can be there with our guests. After present opening, dinner etc. Well actually we will let out one our Magic, to be a good boy when we eat dinner. After dessert, coffee, one at a time we bring out the others. This won't work in all situations. With stranger's small children, we simply will not bring them out. Been there, done that. Not worth it. __________________ Razzle and Dara. Our clan. RIP Karma Dec 24th 2004-July 14 2013 RIP Zoey Jun9 th 2008-May 12 2012. RIP Magic,Mar 26 2006July 1st 2018

12-18-2011, 03:26 PM	#9
Micah my love Donating YT 100K Club Member & Top YorkieTalk Poster! Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: western KY Posts: 108,935	LOL it sure sounds that way I love children but this one is something else, all 78 lbs __________________ Betty & Micah my love + Yogi

12-18-2011, 04:03 PM	#11
Micah my love Donating YT 100K Club Member & Top YorkieTalk Poster! Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: western KY Posts: 108,935	Seems a lot are taking this route anymore... __________________ Betty & Micah my love + Yogi

12-18-2011, 04:12 PM	#12
MorkieMomma Inactive Account Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Missouri, but will always be a Montana girl. Posts: 472	I would actually put her playpen in the livingroom, where all of her human friends are. Putting her upstairs makes her feel left out (like a little kid) and I think that could be why she's yapping (barking). She's saying "Helllooooo I'm HERE!" lol! I'd put it in the congregation area of the holiday event, and just let people know that they can reach in and gently pet her if they wish, but that you would prefer it if they would not take her out of the playpen under any circumstances. I'd also ask your brother or sister (whoever is the parent of the nieces) to have a talk with their kids about her, and make sure they adhere to your 'yorkie rules' of not taking her out. I think she'd do better if her playpen was in the main area, so she doesn't feel like she's not being included. Maybe put an extra yummy holiday treat in there with her, or a Santa's Elf Dog to gnaw on (something new and special). I'm not a dog expert...just adding my two cents =)

12-18-2011, 04:14 PM	#13
Teresa Ford Therapy Yorkies Work Donating Member Join Date: May 2011 Location: Central, Florida Posts: 3,863	I just tick every one off right away. I anounce that the dogs are in their play pen. And have to stay there No one is allowed to feed them or pick them up. Anyone who teases them or makes them bark gets a 5 min. time out on the green chair. Be sure to state the time limit and time out place. It worked for me and mine. __________________ Teresa & Rubin, Gracie, Abba, Ginny Joy and Julia Rose Act like a dog, be kind, forgiving, and loyal.

12-18-2011, 05:20 PM	#14
dinkyweil YT Addict Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Nebo, NC Posts: 479	My husband just carries the dog around with him the entire night. The biggest issue is little kids. They just do not want to leave him alone. Most of the time, they go away after a little gentle supervised petting. My husband once told one mother of a little girl who would not stop after we told her to over and over again that we were worried that he would bite her because he was so tired.

12-18-2011, 05:23 PM	#15
southernbelle04 Katie Scarlett's Mommy Donating Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Sweet Home Alabama Posts: 7,554 Blog Entries: 1	I was thinking of putting the playpen in the living room too. This is what we will be doing with Katie Scarlett. We want her right there with us so she can feel 'in' on the action, but no underfoot where she could be stepped on or get into things she should not. I also would let the children know that they are not allowed to play with her unless an adult is present so they won't chase her and scare her. Maybe give her a favorite treat or a new toy for a sort of 'prize' for staying in her playpen like a good girl. This is our plan. Good luck to you! And Happy Holidays! __________________ Aymee & Katie Scarlett