How do I stop my dog from jumping on guests during Thanksgiving?

Practice calm greetings ahead of time using sit-stay commands. Reward your dog for staying calm and use a leash to prevent jumping when guests arrive.

What are the best holiday dog training tips for East Tennessee families?

Focus on obedience basics like 'place,' 'leave it,' and calm greetings. Create a quiet space for your dog to relax during busy gatherings.

Do you offer obedience training in Morristown, TN before the holidays?

Yes. Integrity Canine offers private lessons and Board & Train programs in Morristown and across East Tennessee to help prepare dogs for the holidays.

Dog Training Tips for a Calm Thanksgiving

Kyle Benjamin
Oct 10
2 min read

Thanksgiving in East Tennessee means great food, family gatherings, and — if you’re a dog owner — plenty of opportunities for chaos. From barking at guests to begging at the table, even the sweetest dogs can lose their manners during the holidays. That’s why now’s the time to follow these holiday dog training tips from Integrity Canine in Morristown, TN.

Roasted turkey in a skillet with garlic, lemon slices, and herbs. The handle is light blue. A knife and cloth are nearby on a dark surface.

Top Thanksgiving Dog Training Tips in East Tennessee

1. Practice Calm Greetings Before Guests Arrive

Excited dogs love to jump, bark, or run circles when company walks in. Practice structured greetings before the big day. Use sit-stay drills and reward calm behavior. And let's be honest, no one wants Aunt Julie, or her famous pecan pie being yeeted into the front yard by an overly enthusiastic Labrador.

2. Reinforce “Place” and “Leave It” Commands

Holiday meals can tempt even the best-behaved pups. Teaching your dog to stay on their “place” or ignore dropped food keeps everyone safe and stress-free. Plus, a trip to the emergency vet to have a turkey bone removed is not on anyone's Black Friday shopping list.

3. Create a Quiet Space

Not every dog enjoys big gatherings. Give them a crate or bed in a quiet room with water and a chew toy. It helps them decompress during the bustle.

4. Schedule a Pre-Holiday Training Tune-Up

Our obedience training in Morristown, TN can help polish skills before Thanksgiving. Even a single private lesson can make a noticeable difference in your dog’s focus and confidence.

Why Holiday Training Matters

A calm, obedient dog makes for a smoother celebration. Whether you’re hosting in Morristown or traveling across East Tennessee, these holiday dog training tips ensure your pet stays part of the fun — not the stress.

This Thanksgiving, give yourself and your dog the gift of peace and structure. Start with these holiday dog training tipsor book a professional session with Integrity Canine before the season gets hectic. These dog training tips will help you have a calm Thanksgiving.

Schedule your free consultation today. Serving Morristown, Jefferson City, Dandridge, Knoxville, and all of East Tennessee.