A Daily Routine for Your Dog

Lure Coursing. Photo (C) LWD

Your dog needs consistency in his daily routine to have a healthy and fit life. Make a schedule of your dog’s daily activities. Here are some suggestions of things you might include. Every dog is an individual and a recipe approach may not be appropriate for all dogs – find things that both you and your dog enjoy.

Feeding

Scheduled mealtime routines can help reduce anxiety and help a dog relax. 

Training 

Practicing polite greetings. Photo (C) LWD

Training is essential for a well socialized dog. You can train your dog any time—while you cook, eat, clean, talk on the phone, work on the computer, watch TV, run errands, go to the softball game, go for a walk, go swimming, take a hike, or ride a bike. Training should be a part of your lifestyle and should be consistent among family members so the dog learns what to expect. A perfect example is training when you arrive at a door. A typical day of running errands and training at the same time can be the following:
• Go to the bank, bring the dog with you, and practice door etiquette.
• Pick up your dry cleaning and practice loose-leash walking in the parking lot.
• While doing your laundry, practice stays and eye contact, and play the “hide the cookie” or “toy in the towel” game. You can even put the dog on a longer leash and practice recalls.
• When you go to the pet shop, practice door etiquette and sitting politely for petting.

Combine training, exercise and play with canine agility.
Photo (C) LWD

Play & Exercise Time

Play is a valuable component in relieving stress and providing exercise. Play can encompass everything from play with other dogs, playing with toys and fetching and playing games with you. Play helps release the happy chemicals in their brain and gain valuable skills. Play can be a wonderful way to reward a dog in conjunction with their training.

Nap Time

Dogs can be more predictable and calmer with a regular nap time. If you have a very busy or hyperactive dog, you may want to crate them for an hour or two mid-day. Dogs usually have two active times during the day, morning and late afternoon into evening. 

Alone Time

Learning how to be alone may be an inevitable part of your dog's life. You need to go get groceries, go places that don't welcome dogs and go on vacations or trips that may not include your furry pal. A little bit of alone time every day starting when you get your dog will help prepare your dog for times when you just can't be there.

Chew Time

Chewing can help to relieve tension and give a dog a nice quiet activity. Chewing should be supervised so that the dog does not swallow large pieces of hard to digest items.  Some dogs are very aggressive chewers. You may need to work with your veterinarian to find a safe chewie for your dog.

Leash Walks

On leash walks will provide your dog with access to a bigger world. Seeing, smelling and experiencing many new things in the world is an important part

Hands on time. Photo (C) LWD

Hands On Time

Spend time grooming, massaging and handling feet, toenails, ears tail, and teeth.  It is a wonderful way to bond with your dog. All dogs will have some time in their life when they may need to be restrained or handled and daily handling can prepare them. Daily teeth brushing can help you avoid costly dental bills.

What is Your Routine?

All dogs have individual needs and preferences. Is there anything that your dog loves that is not on this list?