How to Prepare Your Dog for Back to School Season

Posted Jul 13, 2026 in Tips

With summer drawing to a close and the kiddos heading back to school, it is important to consider your dog as your household routine shifts. Like all pets, dogs thrive on a schedule, and the abrupt change can be difficult and confusing for our pups. However, with a little preparation and a lot of love, our furry friends will be ready to adjust to the days ahead. Here are a few fun tips to help your pup adjust to the new routine!

Gradually Adjust Your Dog’s Schedule

Our furry creatures of habit enjoy consistency. To help them prepare for the fall season with minimal anxiety, begin gradually adjusting their routine a few weeks before school starts. One easy way to do this is during feeding times. Try adjusting your pooch’s meals to the time they will be fed during the school year. It is understandable that walks and playtimes may shift too, so gradually shift their walks to earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. If you’re looking to take the new routine a step further, encourage the kiddos to observe quiet hours during the day so your furry friend can adjust to the slower pace. 

Establish a Comfortable, Safe Zone

Designate a quiet, cozy area of the house for your pup to retreat to during the day. While dogs may feel lonely or bored, a reliable space can make a world of difference. This can look like the following: 

• A cozy bed: Place a comfortable bed in a low-traffic area of the house where your pet can relax.
• Calming aids: Comforting noises, such as calming music, white noise, or the TV at a low volume, can help calm your pooch during the otherwise quiet days.
• Toys: Fun toys are the best distraction for our furry friends. Consider treating them to a new toy as the school season starts up!

Provide Enrichment Activities

Boredom is a recipe for disaster for our curious creatures. When left alone and unstimulated for hours, dogs may engage in destructive behavior to keep themselves occupied. Invest in interactive puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to keep your dog occupied during the day! If you are able to, head home in the middle of the day to play with your pup. It helps break up your day and theirs!

Exercise Your Dog

Daily exercise keeps your furry friend mentally and physically strong. Ensure that you take your dog on at least one walk a day, either in the morning or the evening. This routine can be something both you and your canine companion look forward to. 

Arrange for Companionship

Dogs are social creatures. As such, it is unhealthy for them to be left alone for prolonged periods of time. If you are unable to break up your day, try to arrange some companionship for your pup. Hiring a pet sitter or dog walker can be a great outlet for your furry friend to burn off some energy and soak up some love! Doggy daycare is also an option if you want to give your furry companion some playtime with other dogs. 

Social interaction and mental stimulation are critical to dogs’ health and happiness. Be sure to think of your furry friend as your household transitions into your back-to-school schedule. They will thank you!