07/11/2023
Make a Routine
An essential task for busy people is proper time management. This is especially important if you get a dog. Since you’re under a time constraint, you should create a schedule or routine to fit the needs of your new furry friend that coordinates with your life. This includes feeding, exercise, training, and bonding time. Soon your dog will feel more comfortable around you even though they won’t see you often. You will also feel more organized as well with everything scheduled and organized.
Don’t Neglect Their Needs
With your daily schedule, you need to plan for your dog’s basic needs. Specifically, you must plan for food, water, grooming, bathroom trips, and veterinary trips. You should groom your dog about once a month to keep their fur conditioned and clean. You should also schedule an annual checkup to the veterinarian—more often if your dog is suffering from any sicknesses. Provide them with toys to keep them busy during your on- and off-hours too so that they don’t feel bored or anxious. Bored/anxious dogs are destructive dogs!
Take Them Outside
Dogs love going outside because it allows them to run and play. This exercise is extremely important to develop their bodies, keep them fit, and burn off excess energy, especially puppies. Not to mention, going outside allows your dog to urinate or defecate as needed. As a homeowner, it’s much easier to clean up a mess on grass than in your home.
Train Them
Your dog needs your love and affection as much as you need theirs, but sometimes life gets in the way of proper training. In this case, training your dog will reinforce its place in your household hierarchy, which goes a long way toward keeping them confident and calm even when you’re not home. Training your dog sit, stay, leave certain items alone, and so on drives home that you are their pack leader. A dog secure in the pack hierarchy is less likely to test boundaries.
Hire a Pet Sitter or Dog Walker
Of course, sometimes people are just too busy and need some extra help. This is perfectly okay and shows that you are putting your dog’s needs first. While we can’t control our work or personal lives all the time, it’s important to be able to rely on someone who knows how to look after your pets while you’re away. Consider hiring someone trustworthy and knowledgeable to take your dog on daily walks, play with them at your home, or watch the dog overnight when you are unavailable or out of town.
