From Summer Fun to School Routine: Helping Your Dog Adjust

The beginning of the school year can be a time of adjustment for families, and dogs are no different. Some owners observe obvious changes in their dogs when the kids return to school. Dogs might show more destructive behaviors, such as chewing items around the house that they would typically ignore; barking could increase, or owners might notice their dog seems off.

The Hidden Impact of Schedule Shifts

While some behaviors are obvious, it’s not always easy to pinpoint the behavior change. Even when the changes are subtle, it’s important to pay attention to the feeling that something is wrong with your dog.

People will sometimes ask me if their dog could be feeling down because the kids returned to school. As a dog trainer, I’ve helped many clients create new routines that make the start of the school year easier on the dog. While we can’t determine exactly what a dog is feeling when they seem off, owners can take steps to help.

When to Consult Your Veterinarian

Some changes are more serious than others. A dog showing signs of stress and anxiety will need a more personalized approach than a dog simply adjusting to a new routine. It’s important to track sudden behavior changes in any pet, not just dogs. We can’t assume the school year is to blame when serious behavioral changes are observed. Pet owners should contact their veterinarian to discuss their concerns and rule out other possible causes.

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In many cases, changes noticed at the start of the school year have to do with changes in the dog’s routine. One thing owners might notice is that the dog starts showing problem behaviors they previously had. What they thought the dog grew out of or finally got over might have been masked by a busy summer. Dogs get used to running around with kids and following them around. When the kids are in school, a dog accustomed to daily activity might look for something else to do.

Creating a Balanced Routine for the Whole Family

One thing families can do together is discuss a new routine that works for everyone. Throughout the day, are there time blocks you can dedicate to play sessions with the dog? Even hectic morning routines can involve the dog. A few minutes of training, a food puzzle, or some extra play time can make a difference.

In the afternoon, when the kids are home, is there time for a family walk that everyone can go on together? Dogs are social animals, and spending time with the family dog together, rather than relying solely on individual time with each family member, can be rewarding for both the dog and family members.

It might not seem like your dog’s exercise routine changed a lot from summertime to the cooler months. When it was too hot to go for walks, you might assume your dog was getting less exercise. In some cases, day-to-day activities keep a dog busy without families realizing it. From pool parties and cookouts to the kids having their friends over often, your dog might have had a busy social schedule.

The good news is, while dogs need plenty of enrichment, exercise, attention, and time with their people, they need quiet time, too. The sooner the new routine stabilizes after summer ends, the better it will be for your dog.

Dogs pay close attention to the behavior of the people they interact with, so they will pick up on stress and energy changes as families adjust. Families can work together to make sure dogs aren't left out when setting everyone up for success at the start of school. The routine might change, but the amount of attention families give their dog doesn't have to.