Back to School, Back to Routine: Helping Your Dog Adjust

It's that time of year again! As summer winds down, backpacks come out, and school supplies fill the shopping carts. Families begin preparing for a brand-new routine and work schedules often return to normal.

Between school shopping, busy schedules, and getting everyone ready for the first day or school, it suddenly hits you...

What about the dog?!

For many dogs, summer means more family time, backyard play, afternoon walks, and kids who are home throughout the day. When school starts, that routine changes almost overnight and suddenly being left alone for several hours becomes a big adjustment. The good news? With a little planning, you can help your dog transition into the school year with confidence.

Practice Being Home Alone

If your dog has become used to having company all day, start easing them back into alone time with some social distancing before the big shift. Short departures such as running a quick errand or spending time in another room, can help remind your dog that people leaving isn't a big deal. Once they're ready, start slowly increasing their time alone.

For dogs who are already crate trained, the crate can be a wonderful place to relax and unwind while you're away. The goal isn't simply to keep your dog contained—it's to help them feel safe, comfortable, and successful when they're home alone.

If your dog is new to confinement, start by making the space a place where wonderful things happen. Feed meals there, offer special food toys like a stuffed Kong, West Paw Toppl, or Pupsicle, and encourage your dog to settle in the space. Licking, chewing, and sniffing are naturally calming behaviors that can help dogs settle and create positive associations with being alone.

Crate games and short practice sessions while you're home can build confidence. The goal isn't simply for your dog to tolerate their space—it's for them to enjoy it. When a dog is successfully conditioned to their crate or pen, it's not uncommon to see them visit or nap there even when you are home.

Make Alone Time Worthwhile

One of the most common questions we hear this time of year is:

"What if I can't trust my dog home alone?"

That's where thoughtful confinement can be incredibly helpful.

Whether you choose a crate, exercise pen, or a safely gated room, confinement isn't about punishment—it's about creating a secure place where your dog can relax while you're away. Some dogs have crate or separation distress so looking into long-term confinement setups such as a gated off room or playpen can be a wonderful alternative to safely secure your pup while you are away.

If your dog struggles with either option of confinement, don't panic. Crate training is a skill, and like any skill, it takes time. Work in small steps, celebrate progress, and avoid rushing the process. Every dog learns at their own pace.

A few simple additions can also help create a calming environment for nervous pups:

• Add a couple of drops of lavender essential oil to a blanket or crate cover

• Administer Calming Remedies at least one hour before confinement

• Offer a stuffed food toy before you leave.

• Play soft background noise on the TV, or a sound machine.

• Keep departures and arrivals low-key.

• Always remove collars and harnesses before leaving your dog confined to prevent them from getting caught on the crate or pen.

Most importantly, remember that we want confinement to predict good things, not stress. If you feel like your dog is exhibiting severe separation or confinement distress, it is worth seeking out a certified professional for guidance.

Meeting their needs before you leave!

A tired dog is good—but a mentally fulfilled dog is even better.

Before asking your dog to relax for several hours, make sure both their physical and mental needs have been met. This doesn't mean you need an hour-long walk every morning. In fact, enrichment can be just as valuable as exercise.

Before work or school, try activities like:

• A quick game of fetch or tug.

• A few minutes with the flirt pole.

• Breakfast served in a food puzzle.

• Scatter feeding in the yard.

• A cardboard box filled with treats or safe recyclables to explore.

Even 10–15 minutes of purposeful activity can make a big difference.

It's also important to remember that constantly increasing physical exercise isn't always the answer. Too much physical activity can create an athlete who simply needs more and more exercise each day. Instead, aim for a healthy balance of physical activity, mental enrichment, and opportunities to rest.

Every dog was bred with unique instincts and preferences. Some love to sniff, some love to chase, some love to solve problems, and others simply enjoy relaxing with a favorite chew. Learning what fulfills your dog is one of the best ways to help them thrive.

Is Daycare the Right Choice?

Dog daycare can be a great option for some dogs, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Some dogs truly enjoy the social interaction and activity, while others find busy daycare environments overwhelming. If you're considering daycare, look for a facility that values appropriate play, provides breaks between sessions, has knowledgeable staff, and prioritizes your dog's emotional well-being—not just constant excitement.

Remember, daycare should be something your dog enjoys, not something they have to endure. If your dog likes daycare, we recommend going no more than 2-3 times a week!

(Check out our blog ‘Peace of Mind Dog Care: Key Questions to Ask Before You Leave Your Dog Anywhere’)

If daycare doesn't sound like your dog's style, that's perfectly okay. Many dogs are happiest relaxing at home. If you'll be away for an extended period, consider asking a trusted friend, family member, or professional dog walker to stop by during the day for a potty break, a short walk, or simply a little companionship.

Remember, every dog is an individual. The best routine is the one that helps your dog feel safe, comfortable, and successful.

Every Dog Is Different

There's no perfect back-to-school plan that works for every family. Some dogs are happiest relaxing in their crate, some enjoy enrichment while home alone, and others thrive with an occasional daycare visit.

The most important thing is to recognize that changes in routine can be challenging, and giving your dog time to adjust is crucial. A little planning now can help prevent stress, frustration, and unwanted behaviors later.

Remember, we're all doing the best we can. We all wish we could spend every moment with our dogs, but the reality is that work, school, and daily responsibilities are part of life. What matters most is that we continue to meet our dogs' needs, build routines they can count on, and set them up for success.

From all of us at Believe in Dog, we hope you and your pups have a wonderful start to the new school year!

By Alyssa Renteria

Senior Trainer