Chinese New Year is a time of reunion, renewal, and good fortune. Homes are cleaned, red decorations go up, and families gather to usher in a fresh start. For many of us, our dogs are an important part of the family. So it’s only natural to include them in the celebrations.

With a little planning and mindfulness, Chinese New Year can be a joyful and enriching experience for both you and your dog. From festive grooming rituals to pet-friendly feasts and meaningful traditions, here’s how to celebrate Chinese New Year with your dog while keeping their comfort, safety, and wellbeing in mind.

Grooming and Preparation: Starting the New Year Fresh

Before the New Year begins, many households do a thorough spring clean to “sweep away” bad luck and welcome good fortune. Extend this tradition to your dog with a complete grooming session.

A proper bath, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and fur trim not only help your dog look their best, but also promote hygiene and comfort. Grooming symbolises renewal, a fresh start for the year ahead. It’s also a good opportunity to check for skin issues, overgrown nails, or any abnormalities that may need attention.

If your dog is sensitive to grooming, keep sessions calm and positive. Use familiar products, take breaks when needed, and reward them with praise or treats. For dogs that dislike home grooming, consider booking a professional grooming session ahead of the festive rush so your dog can start the New Year clean, comfortable, and stress-free.

Festive Attire: Dressing Up With Comfort in Mind

Red is the hallmark colour of Chinese New Year, symbolising luck, prosperity, and happiness. Dressing your dog in festive attire is a fun way to include them in the celebrations and capture memorable photos.

Choose lightweight, breathable outfits like this Ohpopdog Nihon Collection Kimono (Botan) or bandana in auspicious colours like red, pink, yellow, orange or gold. We like this FuzzYard Cooling Bandana (Candy Hearts) that is both fashionable and functional. It’s made with eco-friendly cotton and crystal polymer technology to keep your dog cool and looking cool in the warm Chinese New Year weather.

If your dog isn’t used to wearing clothes, that’s perfectly fine. Many dogs are more comfortable in a festive collar or harness. If this sounds like your dog, opt for one in auspicious CNY colours like red. Remember, your dog doesn’t need a full costume to be part of the celebration. What truly matters is that they feel safe, comfortable, and at ease. As a bonus, a collar or harness is something they can continue to use long after the festive season ends.

Red Envelope Gifts: An Ang Bao Just for Them

Ang bao are a beloved Chinese New Year tradition, representing blessings and good fortune. Including your dog in this ritual is both fun and symbolic.

Instead of money, fill a red envelope with things your dog will truly enjoy; small treats, a favourite chew, a new toy, or even a voucher for grooming or training. To make it extra engaging, turn it into a simple treasure hunt by hiding envelopes around the house and encouraging your dog to “find” them using scent and cues. 

This activity provides mental stimulation, reinforces bonding, and adds a playful twist to a traditional custom. Just be sure to supervise closely so your dog doesn’t chew or ingest the envelope itself.

Pet-Friendly Feast: Festive Food Without the Risks

Food is central to Chinese New Year celebrations, but many festive dishes are unsafe for dogs due to ingredients like chocolates, onions, high salt, sugar, or rich fats. Instead of sharing human food, prepare a special pet-safe feast inspired by traditional flavours. Simple options include lean boiled chicken, prawns, or fish served plain, or dog-friendly “dumplings” made with safe ingredients such as minced lean meat and vegetables like pumpkin or carrot, wrapped in cabbage leaves.

You can also explore festive treats from reputable pet stores, many of which offer Chinese New Year-themed snacks made specifically for dogs like The Barkery Bark Kwa Dehydrated Pork Dog Treats. 

Always introduce new foods in moderation and watch for any signs of digestive upset. Celebrating with food should be about inclusion, not indulgence. So, keep portions appropriate and stick to ingredients you know your dog tolerates well.

Family Activities: Celebrating Together

Chinese New Year is about togetherness, and that includes shared experiences with your dog. Hosting a small dog-friendly gathering at home with other pet parents can be a wonderful way to socialise, provided all dogs are compatible and introductions are managed carefully.

For a quieter celebration, consider a cosy movie marathon featuring dog-themed films, or simply enjoy quality time with your dog away from the festive noise. This is also a great time to set New Year’s resolutions together; perhaps more regular walks, exploring new parks, learning new tricks, or committing to better dental or joint care.

These shared goals reinforce the idea that your dog is not just a companion, but an active part of your life and routines.

Spreading Goodwill: Giving Back in the Festive Spirit

Chinese New Year is also about generosity and kindness. One meaningful way to celebrate is by giving back to animals in need in honour of your dog. You can donate old but clean and usable items such as blankets, dog beds, toys, or funds to a local animal shelter or rescue group. Always check with the shelter first, as many have specific wish lists based on their current needs. Some pet parents also choose to volunteer their time or sponsor a shelter dog during the festive period. Most importantly, donations should be made with care and intention. Animal shelters are not a place to dump unwanted or unusable items!

A Thoughtful, Dog-Inclusive Celebration

Celebrating Chinese New Year with your dog doesn’t have to be elaborate. Simple, thoughtful gestures can make the season meaningful for both of you. Always keep your dog’s comfort, safety, and needs at the heart of your plans, and you will usher in the New Year with joy, harmony, and plenty of wagging tails. After all, what better way to welcome good fortune than alongside a loyal companion who’s been by your side all year long?

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.