The long weekend is here. The calendar says Easter, your kitchen smells like hot cross buns, and your dog? They’re ready for four days of attention, snacks, and potential mayhem.
Whether you’re heading out for scenic walks, welcoming a stream of guests, or keeping things low-key and local, Easter with a dog brings its own set of joys—and a few crumb-covered challenges.
Here’s your calm, clever, and very dog-friendly guide to making this weekend joyful for both of you.
1. Walk With Intention, Not Just Distance
More time off doesn’t have to mean longer walks. Your dog isn’t tracking steps—they’re following scent trails, reading the “pee-mail”, and inspecting that same patch of grass like it’s a rare treasure.
Let them lead a little. Allow pauses. Take the slow route.
A calm, sniff-heavy stroll does more for your dog’s wellbeing than any power walk—and bonus: you’ll both come home more relaxed.
2. Hosting? Give Your Dog Some Choice Too
Not every dog wants to be the Easter entertainer. Some will happily greet every guest with joyful zoomies, others will be plotting their escape under the table before anyone's even said hello.
Set up a comfy retreat space in a quieter room with:
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A cosy bed
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Something to chew (like a frozen Kong or long-lasting treat)
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Gentle background noise
Let your dog dip in and out as they please. It’s their weekend too—and rest is just as important as fun.
3. Chocolate Isn’t the Only Danger
You probably know to keep Easter eggs out of paw’s reach, but it’s not just chocolate on the no-go list. Watch out for:
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Hot cross buns (they contain raisins = toxic)
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Cooked bones from roasts
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Rich leftovers
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Guests slipping them “just a bite”
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Xylitol in sugar-free bakes
Top tip: a gentle “no scraps for the dog, no matter how charming they are” reminder can save you an emergency vet trip.
4. Rainy Day? No Problem—Bring the Fun Inside
If the weather takes a turn (classic UK), there are loads of simple ways to keep your dog busy indoors.
Try:
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Scatter feeding or a snuffleball
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“Find it” games with treats hidden around the house
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Frozen stuffed Kongs
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Towel burritos with kibble hidden inside
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Cardboard box destruction parties (chaos, but fun chaos)
It’s not about tiring them out physically—it’s about keeping their brain engaged so they don’t decide to create their own entertainment...
(Yes, we’re looking at the sock drawer.)
5. Reward the Boring Stuff
When your dog is relaxed and calm, it’s easy to ignore it. But those are the moments that deserve the most praise.
So when they choose to lie down while the family chats, or chill quietly under the table during dinner?
Yes. That deserves a treat.
Teaching your dog that calm = reward is one of the best long-term wins you can give them—and yourself.
6. Let Go of the Pressure
Not every walk will be magical. Not every guest will listen to your “no scraps” rule. Not every dog will want to wear bunny ears for the family photo.
And that’s okay.
If your dog gets fresh air, a bit of mental stimulation, a few kind words, and a safe place to nap—you’ve done brilliantly.
They don’t need perfection. They need you, showing up for them the way you always do.
Final Thoughts
Easter weekend is a lovely chance to slow down, reconnect, and—let’s be honest—spend even more time with your dog. Whether you’re out and about or snuggled on the sofa, remember: the best moments are often the simple ones.
Let your dog be their weird, wonderful, lovable self.
Let the crumbs fall where they may.
And if things go a bit sideways? There’s always a towel. And a treat.
Talk soon!
Fiona