It's hard to leave your home in the morning when you've got a pup looking up at you with huge eyes while you grab your keys to run out the door. You promise your pup that you'll be home soon, but still feel bad that he has to spend the whole day by himself. No one wants to think of their fur baby moping around the house all day, that's a terrible image!
There are certain things that you can do to help make your dog an all-around happier dog without having to quit your job and spend every waking hour going on walks or taking him to the dog park. You just need to learn how to budget your time properly and how to include your pet in the activities and errands that you already have to do anyway. Even the smallest everyday changes can make a huge difference in your pup's happiness!
Give your pup opportunities to entertain himself.
Instead of leaving a bunch of treats out for your baby to munch on while you're away, introduce them to food puzzles. These toys will keep him occupied for longer periods of time, and will also challenge his intellect.
Think of it this way: How do you feel after plopping yourself in front of trash television versus reading a heavy piece of literature? Your mind will be tired after something more challenging, and you'll get the satisfaction of accomplishment.
The same concept applies to your dog and these puzzles. Animals in the wild have to work for their food, so let your pup return to his instincts! He'll be much more fulfilled.
Create a daily routine for your doggie.
Just like you feel better when you have structure in your day, your dog likes to know when things are going to happen, too. Think of how much better you feel when you wake up, go on your run, have lunch promptly at 1:00, and get to bed by 11:30 every day. Once your schedule gets out of whack, so does your mood.
When you get up for your morning run, wake your dog up to come along with you, set a specific time to go on an evening stroll for after work play time, and serve dinner at the same time each day.
Routine will make your dog feel at ease while you're away, and excited for his play time once you get home!
Let him sniff.
Especially if you have a young pup, being able to take in the scents of his surroundings is incredibly important. Olfactory communication is a huge part of the way dogs learn and behave, so make the extra time to let your pup linger on his afternoon walk.
Plus, that means more one-on-one time for the two of you!
Teach him a new trick.
Yes, even for older, stubborn dogs. In fact, this activity can be even more rewarding for them. When you use positive reinforcement to teach your dog how to do things, the chore turns into more of a game. You don't have to dedicate huge chunks of time to this, either. Just five to ten minutes a day of concentrated training can be enough to get your dog learning new tricks like a pro.
He'll look forward to this time with you (and the treats or toys you use as positive reinforcement), and he'll also learn something new! Who knows, maybe you will too.
Plan outings where he'll see other dogs and people.
Dogs are social creatures. Just like human children, they need time to see their pals, so do what you would do with young children: Plan play dates! Even if it's just for a short time, you should coordinate when you and your friends with dogs are going to the park or for a walk.
If your dog likes people more than dogs, look for dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in your area so that he can sit with you while you grab lunch. You can also get some reading in, or bring your laptop to catch up on emails. It's good for you to get out of the house, too! Everyone wins.
Make grooming your dog a time to bond.
To some people, this might seem like a crazy dream. You have to let your pet get comfortable with the brush and any other tools you need to use. Use lots of positive reinforcement and stay as relaxed as possible. It could take some time to get your dog to enjoy getting a daily grooming, but with enough love, he will get there.
Keeping your pet clean and well kept is a necessary thing anyway, so why not turn it into something to look forward to?
Take him on car rides.
You know that long list of errands that has you driving all over town? Why not take your pooch along with you? Roll the window down and let him sit up front with you on the way to the pharmacy, and take him into the pet store when you're restocking on kibble. He'll enjoy the wind on his face, and he'll love the quality time with you even more.
Schedule regular vet visits!
A healthy pup is a happy pup. Your vet will be able to pick up on some things that you simply can't, so it's crucial that you keep regular appointments with the doctor.
If you're suspicious that something could be wrong, make sure that you give your vet a call, and if it's more serious, take him in right away on top of the scheduled visits.
Just adding one or two of these activities each day will improve your pup's mood immensely. It doesn't take much time — you'll just have to get into the habit of dedicating small parts of your day specifically to your pup's happiness. These moments will turn into time that you cherish, too. Please SHARE so that all of your canine inclined friends and family know how to give their pup the best life possible!
