Creating a routine for your dog is essential to provide structure, comfort, and overall well-being. Dogs thrive on predictability, so establishing a consistent daily schedule helps them feel secure and content. With back-to-school around the corner, creating a back-to-school routine for your dog can help ease the transition and ensure that your furry friend receives proper care, attention, and exercise, even as your family’s schedule changes. Here’s what you can include in your routine.
Early Walk or Exercise
Start the day with a walk or exercise session to help your dog burn off energy. This is especially important since your dog might have to wait longer until the next walk due to your schedule. Even a few minutes of fetch in the backyard or a park can help your dog feel at ease until you’re back.
Structured Feeding Schedule
Provide a balanced meal for your dog after the morning exercise. Consistency in feeding times is essential. Since dogs are creatures of habit, you can help them feel at ease and avoid separation anxiety knowing you are returning and will feed them at their usual times.
Interactive Play
Engage in interactive playtime or mental stimulation activities to keep your dog engaged and mentally active. Leave your dog with interactive toys or puzzles that help keep them occupied and mentally stimulated while you’re away. You can also give them interactive toys at home to keep them entertained while you finish work or homework in the evening.
Structured Potty Breaks
If you can come home during lunchtime, take a short break to let your dog out for a potty break and a brief stretch. If you cannot come home, adjust your dog to go to the bathroom in the morning and afternoon when you’re back. If you’ll be away for an extended period, hire a pet sitter. Luv My Sitter, can come over and let your pets out for a potty break and check in on them before you come home.
Quality Time
When you return from work or school, be sure to dedicate quality time with your pet. This could include training sessions, playing fetch, or just relaxing together. Quality time is crucial to maintaining your bond with your pet.
Comfortable Sleeping Area
When you leave your home in the morning, ensure your dog has a comfortable and quiet sleeping area where they can rest undisturbed. Having a usual place to go to as part of their routine will create a sense of familiarity for your pet and help them stay at ease while you’re away.
Make more time on Weekends
When weekends come around, be sure to dedicate more time to spending together with your dog. Extended playtimes, longer walks, and outdoor adventures are great activities that will help you get bonded with your pet while having fun together. You can also sign your dog up for training sessions or take them to dog parks for socialization. The weekend can be more relaxed than their usual routine.
Remember, Change Takes Time
If you’re adopting a whole new routine, implement it gradually and start early. At least a week or two before the changes begin so your dog can get adjusted comfortably. Be sure to be consistent as well. Dogs thrive on routine. Sticking to a consistent feeding schedule, walks, and playtime is vital. Feel free to hire help like professional pet sitters to check in on them during the day.
Remember, every dog is different, so tailor the routine to suit your dog’s needs, preferences, and energy levels. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a structured routine will help keep your dog happy and well-adjusted even during the busy back-to-school and work season. Contact Luv My Sitter to schedule recurring house visits for your new routine!