New School Year, New Routine

Author's Bio: Kiley is the Owner and Head Trainer at Courteous Canine Inc. located in Wainfleet, Ontario. She has invested over a decade in the canine training and behaviour modification field, learning from and collaborating with some of the top names in the industry internationally. Kiley and her team focus on teaching both dogs and humans as a team, prioritizing the state of mind and creating healthy emotional responses which shape the behaviours our dogs display in day-to-day life.

Back-to-School Season Is Tough on Dogs

As summer winds down and kids head back to school, many families experience big changes in their daily routines. New schedules, earlier mornings, busier afternoons, and packed calendars can make the transition feel overwhelming for parents and children alike. But there’s another family member who feels the shift deeply - your dog.

For dogs, routine is everything. They thrive on consistency and familiarity, and when the hustle and bustle of back-to-school season begins, it can leave them feeling anxious, lonely, and confused. Understanding why this season is tough on our furry friends can help us better support them through the change.

Dogs Feel Emotions Too

It’s easy to forget, but dogs are highly emotional creatures. They bond deeply with their families, and they notice when something changes. They may even mirror the stress of their humans. If the kids are nervous about starting a new grade or parents are juggling hectic schedules, dogs pick up on that energy.

Some dogs show signs of stress like sleeping more, being less playful, or eating less—while others may act out because they don’t know how to process the change. 

The Disruption of Routine

Dogs love predictability. They like knowing when meals, walks, and playtime will happen. Back-to-school often throws off that balance. Morning routines get rushed, walks may be cut short, and evening schedules can be dominated by homework, sports, and extracurricular activities.

When a dog’s needs for exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction aren’t met, frustration can build. A lack of activity not only affects their mood but can also lead to unwanted behaviors, like barking, chewing, or even accidents in the house.

Helping Your Dog Adjust to Back-to-School

The good news is that there are many ways to make this transition smoother for your pup. With a little preparation, you can ease their anxiety and help them feel safe and comfortable, even when the house is quiet.

Stick to a Routine

Try to keep feeding, walking, and playtime consistent, even with busy school schedules. Dogs find comfort in knowing what to expect.

Give Them a Morning Outlet

A walk or play session before the family heads out can help burn energy and reduce anxiety. A tired dog is usually a calmer dog.

Provide Mental Stimulation

Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or safe chew toys can keep your dog busy while you’re away. Mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise.

Create a Safe Space

Some dogs feel more secure with a cozy crate, a specific room, or a quiet corner where they can relax. Add familiar items like blankets or toys to make it comforting.

Consider Extra Support

If your schedule is packed, doggy daycare, a pet sitter, or a neighborhood dog walker can provide companionship and exercise.

Make Goodbyes Low-Key

As tempting as it is to give long, emotional goodbyes, this can actually increase your dog’s anxiety. Keep departures calm and casual and greet them warmly but not overwhelmingly when you return. This helps normalize comings and goings.

Enrich Afternoons and Evenings

When the kids come home from school, encourage them to spend a few minutes with the dog before diving into homework or activities. A quick walk, play session, training game, or cuddle reassures your pup that they’re still a valued part of the family routine.

A Season of Adjustment - for Everyone

Just like kids adjusting to new teachers and parents managing new routines, dogs need time and support to adapt to the back-to-school season. With patience, consistency, and a little extra love, your furry family member can learn to navigate the changes without too much stress.

The key is remembering that your dog doesn’t understand the “why” behind the sudden shift. They only know that the people they love most aren’t around as much as they used to be. By being proactive and empathetic, you can help your dog feel secure, loved, and included even during the busiest time of year.

Because at the end of the day, while the kids are learning their ABCs, your dog just wants to know they’re still your number one.