Dogs and back to school. The transition can be hard.
The start of a new school year often brings excitement and routine for families, but it can also bring unexpected stress for your dog. After a summer filled with activity, attention, and constant companionship, the sudden silence and solitude of an empty home can lead to confusion, anxiety, or even behavior issues in your canine family member.
Whether you have a new puppy or a longtime canine companion, it’s important to support their emotional well-being during this transitional time. In this blog, we’ll explore the emotional impact of the back-to-school season on dogs and provide actionable tips to help your dog adjust smoothly and confidently.
Why the Back-to-School Season Can Be Hard on Dogs
Dogs are creatures of habit and connection. They form strong bonds with their family, especially the children who often serve as playmates, cuddle buddies, and adventure partners. When those familiar faces vanish for several hours each day, your dog might not understand why, or when they’re coming back.
Common reactions include:
- Barking or whining during the day
- Pacing or restlessness
- Destructive chewing
- Attempts to escape
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Bathroom accidents (even in housetrained dogs)
Some dogs may exhibit signs of separation anxiety, a more intense form of distress that requires your veterinarian’s diagnosis and thoughtful intervention.
How to Tell if Your Dog Is Struggling
While every dog reacts differently, some signs to watch for include:
- Following family members from room to room when they are home (when this has not been the norm in the past)
- Becoming overly excited or anxious when someone returns
- Scratching at doors or windows
- Excessive grooming or licking
- Depression or withdrawal
If you notice these behaviors emerging or intensifying as the school year begins, your dog may be struggling with the change in routine.
How to Help Your Dog Adjust to the School Routine
1. Ease Into the New Schedule Early
Don’t wait until the first day of school to shift your dog’s routine. Start gradually adjusting wake-up, feeding, potty, and walk times a couple of weeks in advance. This gives your dog time to adapt to changes without feeling overwhelmed.
Try:
- Moving breakfast earlier if school mornings start earlier
- Practicing quiet alone time in the middle of the day
- Creating a predictable routine for walks and play
Dogs thrive on consistency, so the more predictable their day, the more secure they’ll feel.
2. Build Up Alone Time Gradually
Many dogs become accustomed to constant companionship over summer break. To prevent shock from sudden solitude, begin practicing short separations. Start with just a few minutes and work up to longer stretches.
Use positive reinforcement by:
- Giving a treat-filled puzzle toy (like a frozen Kong) before you leave
- Pairing departures with a consistent phrase like “I’ll be back soon!”
- Acting calm and neutral during arrivals and departures
Avoid making a big fuss when leaving or returning, as this can increase anxiety.
3. Create a Safe and Enriching Home Environment
When the house empties, your dog’s world shrinks. Combat boredom and stress with enrichment and comfort.
Set up a calm, cozy area where your dog feels safe, with:
- A soft bed or crate with the door open
- A favorite blanket or item that smells like the kids
- Calming music or white noise
- Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and chew-safe bones
Rotate enrichment items every few days to keep things fresh and exciting.
4. Incorporate Morning and After-School Rituals
Help your dog feel included in the day’s rhythm with special moments of connection. This can create new routines that your dog learns to anticipate and enjoy.
Try:
- A short morning walk before the school drop-off
- A calm cuddle session or short training game when the kids return
- Including your dog in school prep (let them “help” pack lunches or wait by the door)
These rituals offer emotional structure and foster a sense of security.
5. Get the Kids Involved
Children can play a big role in helping your dog transition. Give them small, age-appropriate responsibilities like:
- Making a goodbye treat station with frozen Kongs
- Practicing a calm “goodbye” and “hello” routine
- Reading a book or sharing quiet time with the dog after school
This not only supports the dog emotionally—it deepens the bond between child and pet.
Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs
Puppies:
Young dogs often struggle the most with routine changes, especially if they’ve never been alone before. Consider:
- A midday potty break or dog walker
- Crate training with positive associations
- Short, structured training sessions to build confidence
Senior Dogs:
Older dogs may be more sensitive to stress or routine disruptions. Keep an eye out for physical symptoms like:
- Appetite changes
- Lethargy or confusion
- Increased vocalization
Offer enrichment and consider speaking to your vet about other ways you can help.
Professional Help: When to Get Extra Support
If your dog shows signs of severe separation anxiety—such as harming themselves, constant barking, or inability to settle—reach out to a professional force-free trainer or certified separation anxiety trainer (CSAT). The earlier you intervene, the better the outcome.
You might also consider:
- Hiring a midday dog walker or someone to come in and offer enrichment activities
- Doggy daycare for social dogs
- Adaptil diffusers or calming chews (talk to your vet first)
Back-to-School Checklist for Supporting Your Dog
Use this quick checklist to prepare your dog for a smooth transition:
- Start adjusting routines 1–2 weeks early
- Practice calm, positive separations
- Introduce enrichment toys and puzzles
- Create a cozy “alone zone”
- Keep goodbyes and hellos low-key
- Include morning/afternoon rituals
- Get the kids involved in dog care
- Monitor for signs of stress or anxiety
- Reach out for help if needed
Final Thoughts: Make the Transition a Team Effort
The back-to-school season doesn’t have to be tough on your dog. With a little preparation, empathy, and creativity, you can help your pup feel confident and secure—even when the house gets a little quieter.
Remember, this is a change for the whole family, including your dog. By working together and maintaining connection, you’ll help your dog thrive—not just survive—during the school year.
Need Help with Separation Anxiety or Routine Changes?
We specialize in force-free, relationship-based training to help dogs and their families navigate transitions smoothly. Contact us today to learn how we can help your dog adjust with confidence.