Can Board and Train programs help before the holidays?

Yes. Board and Train programs offer immersive obedience work that quickly improves focus, calmness, and reliability before holiday gatherings.

Thanksgiving Dog Training in East Tennessee: Keep Your Holidays Calm and Your Dog Happy

Q: How can I stop my dog from begging at the table?

Teach a strong 'place' command and reward calm behavior away from the table. Practice daily before Thanksgiving to reinforce boundaries.

Q: Should I let guests give my dog food?

No. Thanksgiving foods like onions, garlic, and fatty dishes can upset your dog's stomach. Stick to your dog's normal diet and treats.

Q: What’s the best way to calm an excited dog during parties?

Provide exercise before guests arrive and use structured obedience commands to keep your dog focused and relaxed throughout the event.

Q: How do I include my dog safely in Thanksgiving activities?

Include your dog through calm walks, family photos, or quiet supervised time after dinner—avoid letting them near food or crowded areas unsupervised.

Kyle Benjamin
Nov 21
2 min read

Turkey, football, family — and one overexcited dog jumping on Grandma. Sound familiar? The holidays can bring joy and chaos for pet owners, which is why Thanksgiving dog training in East Tennessee is so valuable. At Integrity Canine, we help families prepare their dogs for guests, food, and festivities with simple obedience strategies that make the season smoother for everyone.

Thanksgiving table with roast meat, turkey, veggies, candles, and "Happy Thanksgiving" napkins. Cozy, festive dinner setting. — Sure, this looks good and all, but it can spell disaster for your dog.

Why Thanksgiving Dog Training in East Tennessee Matters

Thanksgiving is full of triggers for even the best-behaved dogs — new smells, loud noises, and a revolving door of visitors. Without structure, your pup can easily slip into bad habits.

Holiday obedience training in Morristown, TN helps your dog:

Greet guests calmly instead of jumping or barking
Stay on command while you cook or serve food
Resist the temptation to beg or counter-surf
Relax in busy, high-energy environments

A little practice before the holidays can save you a lot of stress on Thanksgiving Day.

Simple Thanksgiving Training Tips

1. Reinforce the “Place” Command

Designate a bed or mat for your dog to stay on while guests eat or arrive. Practice daily before the big day.

2. Work on Impulse Control

Use “leave it” and “stay” drills to keep paws off the table and noses out of the kitchen.

3. Exercise Early

A tired dog is a calm dog. Plan a structured walk or training session the morning of your gathering.

4. Set Clear Boundaries for Guests

Ask friends and family not to feed scraps or encourage hyper behavior. Consistency is key.

5. Consider a Board & Train Tune-Up

If you’re traveling or expecting a full house, Integrity Canine’s board and train holiday program can help your dog stay sharp and stress-free.

Why Choose Integrity Canine

Owner Dan Cliff brings decades of experience training dogs of all breeds and temperaments across East Tennessee. Whether you need a pre-holiday obedience refresher or long-term structure, we’ll build a program that fits your schedule — and your dog’s personality.

This Thanksgiving, don’t spend dinner chasing your dog away from the turkey. Invest in Thanksgiving dog training in East Tennessee and enjoy a calmer, happier holiday for both you and your pup.

Contact Integrity Canine today to schedule a holiday obedience consultation W serve Morristown, Jefferson City, Dandridge, Knoxville, and the surrounding East Tennessee region.

Common Dog Training FAQs

1. How can I stop my dog from begging at the table?

Teach “place” and reward calm behavior away from the dining area. Reinforce daily before the holiday.

2. Should I let guests give my dog food?

No. It’s better to keep feeding consistent — many Thanksgiving foods can upset your dog’s stomach.

3. What’s the best way to calm an excited dog during parties?

Structured exercise before guests arrive helps. You can also use obedience drills to redirect energy into focus.

4. Can Board & Train programs help before the holidays?

Yes — short Board & Train programs can polish manners quickly and prepare dogs for high-distraction settings.

5. How do I include my dog safely in Thanksgiving activities?

Stick to calm engagement: walks, photos, and quiet time after dinner instead of letting them roam unsupervised near food.