How to Reestablish Your Dog’s Routine After the Holidays

The holiday season often brings changes to our daily lives, and while it’s a time of joy and celebration, it can also disrupt the routines that dogs rely on. From altered feeding schedules to reduced exercise, your dog may feel disoriented after the holidays. Reestablishing a consistent routine is key to ensuring your dog’s happiness and well-being. Here’s how you can smoothly transition your dog back to their regular schedule, with tips and strategies to make the process easier.

Why Routine is Important for Dogs

Dogs thrive on consistency. A stable routine provides them with a sense of security and helps to minimise stress and behavioral issues. During the holidays, this structure is often disrupted by:

• Changes in meal times or food types.
• Increased noise and activity from gatherings.
• Missed walks or shorter exercise sessions.
• Reduced mental stimulation.

Getting back on track after the holidays is essential to maintaining your dog’s physical health and mental well-being.

Steps to Reestablish Your Dog’s Routine

1. Gradually Adjust Feeding Times

If your dog’s meals have shifted during the holidays, return to their usual schedule gradually.

• Move meal times back in 15-minute increments daily until you’re back to the regular timing.
• Use familiar feeding rituals, such as specific commands or locations, to signal it’s time to eat.

2. Reinstate Regular Exercise

Holidays often disrupt walk and play schedules. Physical activity is vital for your dog’s health and helps to burn off pent-up energy that might lead to destructive behaviors.

• Start with short walks or indoor play sessions if your dog’s activity level decreased over the holidays.
• Gradually increase the duration and intensity of exercise to match their pre-holiday routine.
• Use interactive toys to provide additional stimulation if outdoor conditions are challenging.

3. Reintroduce Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Engage your dog’s brain with training sessions.

• Daily Training: Dedicate 5-10 minutes a day to reinforce commands or teach new tricks.
• Interactive Toys: Use treat-dispensing puzzles or snuffle mats to keep your dog engaged.
• Scent Games: Hide treats around the house and encourage your dog to sniff them out.

Download Dogit for free, sign up with no cost and explore the app. It’s never to late to start training and all dogs can learn something new. Start your training journey today and watch your dog transform.

4. Reinforce Good Behavior

The holidays may lead to low enforcement of rules or the development of unwanted habits, such as begging for food or jumping on guests. Now is the time to reestablish the boundaries.

• Use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.
• Consistently redirect unwanted actions and provide clear alternatives.
• Be patient and give your dog time to adjust to the renewed expectations.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Be Patient: Changes won’t happen overnight. Allow your dog time to readjust.
• Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of stress, such as excessive barking, chewing, or changes in appetite, and address them promptly.
• Stay Consistent: Stick to the new routine every day to help your dog feel secure.
• Involve the Family: Ensure all family members follow the same schedule and reinforce the same rules.

Use the Dogit App to Stay on Track

Maintaining a consistent routine is easier with the help of Dogit. Within the app you can…

• Set reminders for feeding, walking, and training sessions.
• Track your dog’s progress through awards for each mastered command
• Progress with lessons through levels from basic obedience commands to advanced training and problem solving

Reestablishing your dog’s routine after the holidays is a valuable step in maintaining their happiness and health. With patience, consistency, and the right tools, you can help your furry friend transition smoothly into the new year, ensuring they feel secure and loved every step of the way.