In the throes of a busy life, we may not take the time to really think about how life looks to our canine friends. In fact, many have never considered how their morning routine may affect their dog’s entire day.

The truth is, your dog figured out long ago which of your actions signal that you are leaving for the day. If they are left alone, this daily sequence of events may be a stressful and sad time for them. But by simply changing a few of your behaviors, you can greatly improve your dog’s mood every morning, and throughout the day.

The Traditional Morning Routine

If you are like most working adults, your morning can be rushed.

You probably wake up to your dog’s affection, and may take some time to snuggle and play. Then you get out of bed, put on some sneakers and take the dog for a walk. After returning home, the dog gets fed and you proceed to prepare for work. Then comes the moment that your dog dreads – you walk out the door, and he knows he will be alone for 8 or 9 long hours.

Dog experts tell us that the stress experienced by dogs who feel abandoned – even for the day – greatly elevates at these times, and can cause a wide variety of behaviors. Your dog may tear apart the trash, scratch at the door frame, or simply mope around all day, wondering when and if you will return.

How You Can Change Your Dog’s Mood

In the scenario above, your dog starts his day with his favorite activity – time spent with you, and a delicious meal. After that, you are in a rush, and too busy to play. Then you walk out the door, meaning that his morning has gotten progressively worse. He associates your leaving with the beginning of his long, lonely day. But successfully changing this perception is easier than you may think.

Try switching up your routine. When you wake up in the morning, get ready for work first and have everything prepared to leave before you go for a walk. Take your dog for his walk, and then return home and feed him. While he is eating, hide a few treats and favorite toys around the house, or fill his Kong toy with a favorite food. In this way, his morning gets progressively better, not worse –  culminating in a treasure hunt when you leave. By switching up the order of the morning routine, you can better manage his stress level and alleviate the sadness of your departure.

If you could make your dog’s life happier by making a few changes, would you? This is an easy way to  give him something to look forward to every morning. It requires no extra time, just a little rearranging, and your dog will learn that his morning can be fun and fulfilling.

If your dog is still struggling with your absence, you may wish to check out our blog on ways to entertain your dog when you are not home.  The professionals at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training are here for any questions or concerns you may have. Check out our obedience programs, play care, and training programs, all designed to give your dog the best quality of life possible.