6 Tips for Helping the Family Canine Get Used to the Back-to-School Routine

While parents and kids are anxiously preparing for the new school year, one family member might be finding this time of year a little more difficult to get used to. After a summer of free playtime, endless household activity, and more family time, the household pooches will have to get used to a drastic change in their daily schedule.

It can be very stressful and traumatic for some canines to adjust to the different daytime routine. But pet owners can help their beloved furry friend adjust more easily to a new agenda and more alone time. These tips will help the four-legged family member transition to the school hours.

1. Establish a Back-to-School Routine

Dogs are creatures of habit. They feel more secure when they have a consistent routine. To help get used to this unavoidable change, start the back-to-school schedule a few weeks before the kids return to their classes. It will give everyone in the household time to get used to the earlier morning wake-ups and bedtime routines.

2.  Increase Their Alone Time

Start letting the doggie get used to spending more time alone by planning activities outside the home.  By gradually increasing their time away from the human members, the animal will have an easier time getting used to the longer, weekly routine without the family.

3. Plan Special Playtime

Dogs need love and attention just like their people do. Planning special playtime everyday with the household pet will provide one-on-one quality time, while showing the pooch how important and loved they are. Pup’s get bored being in their crate or sleeping all day. Designated playtimes will help them burn off unused energy while showing the poochie the love and attention they need.

4. Add a Personal Scent to the Doggie Toys

Adding the human scent to the dog’s toys, bones, or blanket will help comfort them when the home members are out for the day. The smell will help the doggie get through the alone time during the day because they feel calmer when they recognize their person’s odor.

5. Book Days at Doggie Daycare

When the children can go back to school, give the pooch a special treat too by booking one or two days each week at the local doggie daycare. These specialized facilities let the family pet play with other dogs so they can have fun hanging with other people and pets. Dog care facilities are a great place to help break the boredom of being home alone all week.

6. Hire a Dog Walker

Professional dog walkers can help break the loneliness of a long day alone while providing excellent exercise and stimulation for the canine as well. There are many benefits to hiring a pro including breaking up the doggie’s day, giving them a special treat and providing extra exercise and attention.

Going back to school can be stressful for the family pet. However, early planning will help the pooch into transition more easily and confidently into the new routine. At Top Pet Gifts, we have several products for your dog. Our toys and dog care products can be given as special treats to help your dog with any transition.