Helping Your Dog Adjust After A Summer Of Family Attention

by Sarah

It’s almost September, and life tends to pick up a new pace: the kids will be going back to school or uni and you might be spending more time in the office. If your dog has enjoyed plenty of family attention over the summer, it can be a tough time for them. Dogs love routine, not to mention plenty of fuss and walks!

While some dogs take change in their stride, for others it can be unsettling. Here are some tips to help your dog adjust smoothly. 

Watch for signs that your dog is stressed

Most dogs love company and stimulation, and suddenly being left on their own for hours at a time can make them bored or anxious. They might express this through behaviours such as excessive barking, chewing, or clinginess. 

Make the transition gradually

If possible, ease your dog into the new routine by building up separation time gradually, starting with a couple of hours or half a day. Create a calm environment for them where they can comfortably rest, and leave out their favourite toys or maybe a puzzle feeder to keep them mentally occupied. 

Consider daycare

Very active or sociable dogs may struggle with the lack of companionship, despite your best efforts. A professional daycare service might be the best option in this case. Aim to book a trial day before you return to work, so you can get an idea of how they will respond to it. 

At our dog daycare in Chiswick, we will treat your pup as one of the family, with walks in the park, playtime and quiet moments. There will be plenty of human interaction and the chance to make familiar furry friends.