It’s back to school season for your pup too. Just like kids thrive on structure during the school year, dogs feel more secure when they know what to expect for the day ahead. From feeding times to walks to bedtime, a consistent routine helps reduce anxiety and keeps your pup happy and well-behaved. Here are some things to consider as your kids, and pup, head back to school!
Do dogs need routines?
To reiterate one more time, YES. While you don’t need to keep them on a minute by minute schedule, a steady routine of walks in the morning and at night, meal times, and play time that all fall within the same half hour or so each day is perfect. Dogs are adaptable, so if at the start of the school year they need to get up a little earlier or wait a little longer for meals in the evening, they might give you a grumble in the beginning, but they’ll get used to it as the school year wears on.
Should I feel bad about leaving my dog home all day?
The short answer is no. Dogs need alone time to recharge, nap, and give their space a good sniff. However, a lot of time alone can give them anxiety, especially when they’re used to constant companionship over the summer. If your dog is anxious or bored they can act out by peeing on the carpet, chewing up the new couch, or plotting an escape to run about the neighborhood.
What should I do to help my dog while we’re away?
If your dog will be alone for six hours or more, a midday visit from a walker can be a game-changer. It breaks up their day, offers mental stimulation, and lets them stretch their legs. Even 20 minutes of activity and attention can prevent destructive behavior and lift their mood. If you think your pup will be especially anxious while you’re away, make sure they’re crate trained before the school year starts. While it might feel mean, trust us, they will love it. Put a comfy bed or blanket and their favorite toys in there and it will start to feel like home in no time.
Bonus tip: Give your dog the towel from your morning shower or a dirty t-shirt to nuzzle up to while you’re gone. Dogs tell time by their sense of smell, specifically your smell, so the longer they have your scent the closer they feel to you and may cause them to feel less anxious throughout the day.
As your family adjusts to new routines this fall, don’t forget to help your dog transition too. A little planning — and maybe a scheduled walk or cuddle — can go a long way toward keeping everyone in the household, paws included, happy and healthy!
