The Importance of Routine in Your Dog's Life
Dogs are such joyful pets, bringing light and laughter into our homes. It's sometimes easy for pet owners to forget that their happy, carefree companions are actually quite sensitive and can suffer deeply if there is stress in their lives.
Unlike humans, dogs do not have many coping mechanisms for stress, and events that might not even ruffle our feathers can be earth-shattering to a dog, so it is important to do everything in your power to ensure that your dog feels secure and comfortable in his life.
One of the greatest comforts to a dog is to have a stable and consistent daily routine. Uncertainty is a huge strain on a dog's psyche, and without a set routine, dogs can begin to feel insecure or stressed. Having a routine in place creates the feel of stability and will ease any stress your pet might be experiencing. Some important aspects of a dog's daily routine involve:
1. Make sure you have a regular feeding schedule.
A set and consistent eating schedule will do wonders for your dog's overall health, and will make it easier for you to ensure that your pet maintains a healthy weight. This is also a wonderful way to establish your leadership, which is a kindness to your pet – dogs crave the organization and security of a clan, and as their master you are the leader of their clan. When you take a stand and put rules into place, it actually gives your dog a strong sense of security.
2. Give your dog a specific spot in the house that is theirs.
Providing your dog with a bed, a crate, or a room that they may occupy – especially when they are alone in the house – will remove the pressure for your dog to figure out what to do with themselves while you're away. Creating this sort of safe haven can even help deter any undesirable behaviors (like chewing furniture or going to the bathroom in the house) by providing your dog with the structure they might be craving.
3. Provide your dog with regular exercise.
A walk every day is not only good for the health of you and your pet – it's a great way to nurture your dog's emotional and psychological needs. Walks are very special to dogs, and provide them with a way to feel connected, and special, to you. Even if your dog spends much of their day with you, they may feel lost in the shuffle of your busy schedule. Carving out twenty minutes a day to leash up and step out of the house gives your dog exercise, excitement, and a chance to bond with their favorite person – you!
4. Have regular bathroom times for your dog.
If you do not have a dog door that your pet can use at their discretion, make sure your dog gets regular bathroom breaks, just as consistently as they are fed. Feeding your dog at the same times every day will help you gauge exactly when they need to relieve themselves, and will make routine bathroom breaks easy to predict.
5. Give your dog their very own possessions.
Everyone loves knowing exactly what is theirs, dogs included. Having a few toys and items that they are free to carry with them, chew, hide, burry, or simply play with will help take the edge off a nervous pup, and provide a safe and fun way for a dog to spend their time alone.
Having a daily routine will help both you and your dog feel comfortable and happy, no matter what is going on in your life. These routines are especially crucial if you have gone through any life-changing events, as they will help your pet feel secure. The order and duration of these routines is not important – so long as it's regular and consistent, your dog will appreciate whatever routine you decide works best for both of you.
