Lots of dogs get nervous, excited (sometimes both!) when they hear the sound of the doorbell.
Dog owners to puppies, newly rehomed rescue dogs and energetic canines in general, may be familiar with lots of barking and jumping at the sight of visitors to the home.
But this can make welcoming guests over the Christmas Period difficult and sometimes chaotic.
However, experts from Petmania in Kilkenny say there are ways to subdue the drama.
Emily Miller, Marketing Manager from Petmania in Kilkenny recommends plenty of activity before the doorbell rings.
"If your dog is very hyper it can get very worked up when you've people coming over, make sure that they get loads of attention before those visitors arrive so walk them early in the morning, make sure they're getting out and getting the attention they need. It means they're more tired then so when the visitors come over they'll be less likely to be looking for attention."
She also advises leaving your pet with the option to retreat somewhere calmer to keep the welcoming atmosphere.
It's their territory so when there's loads of people coming in it can threaten them, and make them quite distressed and uncomfortable. So, get their crate or their comfy bed and maybe a favourite toy so they can retreat to it in a quiet room or space.
