When you and your dog wake up in the morning, do you have a plan? Some dogs are early risers, not allowing their parents to sleep in, while others need convincing to get out of bed. Whether your dog is an early bird or prefers a slower start, having a morning routine is crucial. A morning routine sets the tone for the rest of your dog’s day.
Why Are Routines Important?
Dogs thrive when they know what to expect. For this reason, having a routine for your dog is ideal. Routines help dogs understand what to expect from us and what we want from them. Keeping a routine strengthens the bond with your dog and can reduce behavioral challenges caused by boredom and confusion. Crafting a morning routine helps start the day on the right paw, meeting your dog’s needs and showing them they are a priority. The perfect morning routine will depend on your dog’s individual personality and needs, as well as your schedule. The key is ensuring their physical and emotional needs are met before you get busy with your day.
Components of a Perfect Morning Routine
The ideal morning routine involves ensuring your dog’s core physical and emotional needs are met. This includes play, enrichment, potty breaks, their morning meal, and anything else your dog might need, such as medication or supplements for those with health conditions. Every dog’s morning routine should include quality bonding time, exercise, and potty opportunities if you’re heading to work. You might also want to incorporate grooming and training time.
Get Up Earlier
Having a dog is a big responsibility, and it’s essential to adjust your schedule to meet your dog’s needs. This might mean setting your alarm earlier to have enough time to care for your dog before starting your day, whether you’re working from home or heading to an office. The specific time you wake up will depend on your schedule and your dog, but plan for enough time to feed, potty, and provide mental and physical exercise and enrichment first thing in the morning.
Potty Breaks Are Essential
An essential part of your dog’s morning routine is potty breaks. Start by taking them out first thing in the morning, then provide another opportunity after breakfast and again before you leave for work or errands. Even if your dog can hold it for a long time, they shouldn’t have to. Multiple potty opportunities keep your dog happy and comfortable and can prevent painful conditions like Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) that require veterinary treatment.
Give Extra Time to Let Your Dog Sniff
Walks provide physical exercise, but many dog owners rush through them. Allow your dog to sniff and explore, as this is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding parts of the walk. Sniffing is a stress-relieving activity that helps your dog emotionally self-regulate. Whether it’s a walk around the block or a longer nature walk, letting your dog sniff uses their natural instincts and leaves them more fulfilled.
Playtime
Although you might be tired in the morning, most dogs are ready to get going. Budget time in the morning to play interactively with your dog. While walking or running with your dog is great, it’s equally important to provide mental enrichment and quality time. Play fetch, tug, or another game your dog enjoys. Include mental exercises like basic obedience or trick training, or let your dog solve puzzles or scent games.
Experiment
Crafting the perfect morning routine for your dog involves trial and error to find what your dog needs for a good day. The routine for a young, high-energy dog with a work-from-home parent will differ from that of an older, low-energy dog with a parent who works outside the home. List your dog’s needs and preferences, and create a schedule that incorporates as many activities as possible. A well-designed morning routine decreases stress and conflict, allowing your dog to rely on it and strengthening your relationship.
