Impulse Control at BBQs, Picnics & Garden Parties

How to Help Your Dog Stay Calm, Cool, and Collected During Summer Socials

Summer is the season for outdoor gatherings—BBQs, picnics, and garden parties are a highlight for many of us. But while we’re enjoying the food and company, these social events can be overwhelming for our dogs. The smells of sizzling sausages, the bustle of unfamiliar guests, children playing, and perhaps even other dogs in attendance—it's a lot to process.

That’s where impulse control comes in.

Impulse control is a foundational life skill for dogs. It helps them make calmer, more thoughtful choices in exciting or challenging situations. And during summer events, this can make all the difference between a chaotic, stressful afternoon and one where both you and your dog can enjoy yourselves.

Common Summer Challenges for Dogs

• Tempting food on tables or dropped on the floor

• Unfamiliar guests entering their space

• Children or other animals increasing excitement levels

• Open gates or doors creating an opportunity to bolt

  
  

Training Tips to Build Impulse Control

1. “Leave It” – Teach Your Dog to Walk Away from Temptations

This is one of the most helpful commands during BBQ season. Start indoors by placing a treat on the floor and covering it with your hand. When your dog stops trying to get it and looks at you, mark with "Yes!" and reward with a different treat. Gradually build up to more tempting items and practice outdoors.

Summer Application: If your dog knows "leave it," they're less likely to snatch fallen burgers or pester guests with food!

2. “Place” or Settle – Create a Calm Zone

Teaching your dog to go to a mat or bed and relax can be a game-changer. Start by sending your dog to their designated place, rewarding calm behaviour and gradually increasing the time they stay there.

Set this place up slightly away from the crowd, and make it inviting with a chew or frozen Kong. It gives your dog a “safe space” to observe without being overwhelmed.

Pro Tip: Practice “Place” training when you don’t have guests around, so your dog doesn’t associate the cue with overwhelming excitement.

3. Controlled Greetings – No More Jumping Up

If your dog tends to greet guests with too much enthusiasm, practice calm greetings on a lead. Ask for a sit before they say hello. If they jump up, have the guest turn away until the dog is calm.

Reinforce four paws on the floor with praise and treats. Over time, your dog will learn that calm behaviour gets attention—bouncing doesn’t.

Bonus Tip: Set Boundaries for Guests Too!

Often, it’s not just about training the dog—it’s about managing the humans. Let guests know how to greet your dog calmly, and if needed, put up signs like “Please ignore me while I settle down.”

Consistency is Key

• Impulse control doesn’t develop overnight. It’s a muscle that needs regular flexing.

• Practice these exercises in different contexts and reward your dog for making good choices.

• Start small—maybe just a calm tea in the garden with one friend—and build up to full garden parties as your dog’s confidence and self-control grow.

Remember: It’s OK to Take Breaks

If your dog is struggling, it’s okay to give them downtime away from the action. You can even rotate dogs indoors and outdoors to manage their stimulation levels.

Final Thoughts

Impulse control is one of the most empowering things you can teach your dog. It builds trust, improves their coping skills, and makes it much easier for them to be part of your summer fun. So whether it’s resisting the sizzling sausages or staying calm while greeting friends, your dog can learn to thrive during summer social season—with your guidance and support.

Here’s to a calm, connected, and well-behaved summer!