Busy during the holidays? Not always a party!

Many people think that their pets enjoy the hustle and bustle of the summer holidays. More people at home, spontaneous trips, children running around. That may seem like fun, but for dogs it can actually be stressful.

Dogs love predictability and routine: fixed times for walking, eating, and resting. During the holidays, that familiar structure is often lost. The result? Overstimulation, restless behavior, or, conversely, withdrawal.

And then, after those chaotic weeks, everything changes again. The alarm clock goes off early, the house is suddenly quiet, the familiar pack is gone. For many pets, that abrupt contrast is difficult to understand.

5 tips to help your dog get back into the ‘back to school’ routine

1. Build up the rhythm slowly
Do you still have a few days before school starts? Then start with short moments of ‘being alone’. Leave for an hour and let your dog get used to a quieter house.

2. Provide structure and predictability
Animals love routine. Try to stick to fixed times for eating, walking, and playing. This provides stability, especially during this transition period.

3. Leave something comforting behind
A worn T-shirt with your scent in the basket, an interactive toy, or even some quiet music in the background can help combat feelings of loneliness.

4. Short but quality time after school
A cuddle, an extra walk outside, or lying on the couch together works wonders. Even if it's only for fifteen minutes, your dog will appreciate it immensely.

5. Provide distractions during the day
Sniffing mats, food puzzles, or a window seat with a view of the garden provide mental stimulation. This will make the day fly by, even for your pet.

Small paws, big feelings

It's easy to think that animals just ‘adapt’. And they often do, in their own way. But a little extra attention during this transition period helps enormously. Not only to prevent stress, but also to strengthen your bond.

So while you're packing school supplies and making sandwiches, give your dog a pat, a wink, or a toy to go. They may not be coming to school with you, but they're waiting for your return, for peace and quiet, for love.