How Can I Help My Dog Adjust to a New Routine

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Dogs thrive when they have an established routine. They like things to be predictable, so surprises are not always welcomed with enthusiasm. This means that any major changes in that established routine will require plenty of adjustment and could result in some odd behaviors. Needless to say, stressful changes for the owners such as moving or changing jobs can be made even more stressful when their dogs start chewing furniture or peeing in the house out of the blue. However, don’t worry – there are ways to help your four-legged friend adjust to this new routine, and quickly accept the changes. Here are the most important tips to keep in mind.

7 Life-Saving Tips To Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Routine

Adjusting to a new routine can be challenging for everyone, not just dogs. There can be a lot of stress and anxiety involved. Still, it is not the end of the world, and you need to let your pet know that. With some patience and consistency, you can help them adapt much more easily. Here’s what you can do to make the changes go over smoothly with your pooch:

  • Gradual transition:  Introduce changes gradually rather than abruptly. Sudden shifts can cause stress or anxiety in dogs. Adjust their meal times, exercise routines, and other activities over a period of days or weeks, little by little.

  • Consistent schedule:  Dogs thrive on  , so establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, walking, playtime, and rest. Stick to this schedule as closely as possible, as it provides a sense of stability and predictability for your dog.

  • Maintain familiar elements: If possible, try to keep some elements from the old routine intact. For example, if your dog had a specific sleeping area or a favorite toy, make sure to incorporate them into the new routine. Familiar objects can provide comfort during the adjustment period.

  • Positive reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your dog for adapting to the new routine. Offer treats, praise, or playtime as rewards when they exhibit good behavior or successfully follow the new schedule. This will help motivate and reinforce positive associations with the changes.   make a great bribe – not only that they’re crunchy and taste heavenly, but they’re also human-grade and completely natural.
ADVERTISEMENT

  • Patience and understanding:  Have in mind that your dog may need some time to adjust, especially if the routine change is significant. Be patient and understanding during this transition period. Give them extra attention, love, and reassurance to help them feel secure and reduce any anxiety they may experience.

  • Exercise and mental stimulation: Ensure that your dog receives regular exercise and mental stimulation, as these are essential for their well-being. A tired dog is generally more adaptable and less likely to become restless or anxious. Engage in activities such as walks, playtime, puzzle toys, or training sessions to help them expend energy and stay mentally stimulated.   for some solid mind-tickling playtime that will keep your pooch entertained and occupied for hours on end.
ADVERTISEMENT

  • Seek professional guidance: If your dog is struggling significantly with the adjustment or displaying signs of distress, it may be helpful to consult with a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian who specializes in behavior. They can provide personalized guidance and strategies to address your dog's specific needs.

Remember, every dog is unique, and their adjustment time may vary. By providing a stable routine, plenty of love and patience, and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog adapt to their new routine more smoothly. During the transition period, observe your dog's behavior closely. If you notice signs of prolonged stress or anxiety, it's essential to monitor their well-being and consider adjusting the new routine if necessary. Some dogs may require additional support or modifications to help them settle into the new routine more comfortably. Do things right, and they should adapt in no time! 

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

How Second-Hand Smoke Affects Your Dog

Need another good reason to quit smoking? That nasty habit could be killing your dog! You probably already know the dangers of second-hand smoke for infants…

Hyacinth Macaw

Affectionately called the ""gentle giant,"" Hyacinth Macaw can live for 60 or more years and can become a lifelong friend for his owner.

Pet Hack Of The Week: Finding Hidden Urine Stains

Pet accidents happen and can sometimes be tricky to find. With an inexpensive UV black light, finding hidden urine stains around your home is a breeze.

PetSafe Sponsors National Pet Hydration Awareness Month With Drinkwell

%%excerpt%% [...]

Scoodle

The Scoodle is a cross between a purebred Poodle and Scottish Terrier. This is a breed that is known for its energy and playfulness,

Jardine’s Parrot

Thanks to their intelligence, fun personality and a great ability to talk and mimic sounds, Jardine''s Parrot is becoming a very popular pet bird breed.

Ocicat

Neither a demanding or clingy cat, the Ocicat loves to be with his humans as much as possible and isn''t above nudging you for a bit of attention.

Global Pet Expo 2018: Dude! Carolina Pet Company Rolls Out The Big LeB

Carolina Pet is celebrating a 20-year-old cult classic with the release of its Big LeBARKski collection at this year''s Global Pet Expo.

What Is Feline Leukemia?

Are you worried about feline leukemia and how it can affect your cat? Here''s what pet parents need to know about the deadly virus and what to expect.

Best Dog Car Barriers

Dog car barriers keep curious pets safely away from the front of the car and eliminate cute but dangerous distractions while you drive.

Weiner On Wheels: Two-Legged Dachshund Gets 3D Printed Wheelchair [Vid

A disabled Dachshund’s 3D printed wheelchair lets her explore the world – don’t get in her way! Bubbles the Dachshund was born with a genet…

Understanding The Dog Heat Cycle

Do you have an intact female dog? We''re going to go over the basics about the dog heat cycle, including its various stages and how to deal with it.

Schipper-Poo

The mischievous little Schipper-Poo is a playful combination of the loving, intelligent Poodle and the loyal, energetic Schipperke.

3 Veterinary Tests That Every New Cat Should Get

When your new cat comes home, you need to take her to the vet for a health check. Here are the tests you need to ask your veterinarian to run on your kitty.

6 Salty Safety Tips For Your Dog On A Boat

Before you set sail, let''s go over some safety tips that will come in handy this summer. You want this trip for your dog on a boat to go ship-shape!