How To Adjust Your Dog’s Routine After A Trip
We’re sure you’ve all been there. You’ve just returned from an absolutely dreamy vacation with your little furry friend, and both of you could not be happier. But the minute you’re back, your canine companion is having a hard time adjusting to your schedule.
Unlike humans, dogs often need consistent routines. Any change in their daily lives is difficult for them to comprehend. So, it comes as no surprise that your pupperino is no longer sleeping and eating like they used to before.
To help you and your pet ride out this difficult time, we’ve curated some steps that you can follow to get your doggo return to a normal schedule. Let’s jump right in and read more about what you can do for your adorable little pup!
What Do Dogs Need?
Let’s learn a bit more about the pooch perspective. What does your dog really need from you?
Well, all they need is a routine and clear-cut schedule. Along with plenty of love, of course! Your pet is habituated to specific sleep patterns and walking schedules. Even just a week or two away from home can disrupt their little world and turn it upside down.
With National Dog Day having just passed us, there is no better time to pay attention to your doggo and give them what they need during a difficult time – time, patience, and plenty of love!
But the good news, dogs are incredibly resilient animals. Just ask @merciandme! Merci is a happy Border Collie who travels everywhere with her owner Staci. She always finds a way to get back to a routine that she is comfortable with.
What Can You Expect After Coming Back Home?
Evidently, traveling can be a bit of a stressful time for your doggo. You can expect your pup to go through a small phase of “rebellion” after you come back home. Remember, try not to be harsh! They are trying to adjust to a routine again and will definitely make mistakes.
Don’t be surprised if your pooch acts out by going to the bathroom inside the house. They may bark more to demand more attention from you. They may also refuse to listen to your commands. You may find them chewing on your slippers or barking vehemently.
But worry not! With a little patience, communication, regular feeding, exercise, and a new sleep schedule, you and your puppy will be back on track in no time! The difficulties of travel should never stop you from taking your pet on vacation with you. It can be a rewarding and fun experience for you and your furry friend.
In fact, @gopetfriendly wholeheartedly supports taking trips with your doggos to keep them happy and healthy!
How Do You Get Your Dog Back on Track?
There are plenty of steps you can take to ease your pup back into the routine and schedule you know they love.
Patience
The first thing to keep in mind is that patience is everything. You know your pup well enough to understand that they never behave a certain way for no reason.
If you doggos indulge in “bad behavior,” it means that they are trying to communicate something to you. It can be frustrating to see your pet go to the bathroom on your plush living room rug, but they would never upset you deliberately.
Realistic Expectations
Try to set some realistic expectations for yourself and your pup the first week after coming back home. Your dog needs the same things that you - time and space to find a routine and balance in your lives.
Consider including your dog in your daily activities to increase the amount of time you spend with them. A simple yoga session with your pup can do wonders! Try to remind yourself that the first week back home will be a little “off,” and be extra patient with your four-legged friend.
If you want to listen to some words of comfort, just ask @hamiltonbarkley! Hami is no stranger to travel as he has traversed across the United States, from Chicago to Oregon. Every time he returns to his hometown of Miami, he re-acclimates and finds a balance, with just a little support from his loving owner.
Professional Training
Lastly, suppose your pup continues to display unusual behavior for more than a week. In that case, you might want to consult a professional dog trainer and figure out any underlying issues responsible for your dog’s actions.
Summing Up
With the right combination of pupreciation, patience, time, and of course, plenty of love and hugs, your doggo will find their footing again and settle back into a routine in no time!
Traveling with your furry friend can be a wonderful bonding opportunity for the both of you that we highly encourage. If you are looking for some treats to give your pup that little nudge in the first week of coming back home, look no further than the delicious macarons from Bonne et Filou!
With these delectable snacks and all your love, your pup will settle in at home before you know it!