Balanced Lives, Confident Tails: A Routine for Pets and Their Humans

Creating a daily routine that fosters both your pet’s and your own well-being is essential for a harmonious, balanced life. A well-structured schedule can enhance your pet’s confidence and reduce behavioral issues, while also allowing you to carve out precious "me time" for self-care. Here, we outline a balanced routine incorporating both puppy care and self-care tips for pet parents, with valuable resources to support you on this journey.

The Importance of a Balanced Routine

A predictable routine helps dogs feel secure and reduces anxiety, promoting better behavior and a happier life. According to Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinarian and advisory board member for Pet Life Today, "keeping a regular daily schedule for feeding, walking, exercise, and play will help dogs feel comfortable and less stressed" (Coates, 2020). For pet parents, a structured day ensures that you can manage your responsibilities while also dedicating time to your own well-being.

Morning Routine: Kickstart the Day with Energy

For Your Pet:

• Morning Mealtime: Feed your dog a balanced breakfast to fuel their day. According to VCA Hospitals, dogs should be fed at least twice a day (subjective to your dog’s age), approximately 12 hours apart (VCA Hospitals, 2021). Ensure you have enough time to let them out for a potty break post-meal.
• Exercise and Potty Time: A morning walk or play session can set a positive tone for the day, burning off energy and reducing anxiety.

For You:

• Self-Care Moment: Start your day with a mindfulness exercise or a short meditation session. Apps like Headspace, Calm, or even YouTube can guide you through this process.
• Healthy Breakfast: Fuel yourself with a nutritious breakfast. Websites like Nutrition.gov offer great recipes and tips.

Midday Routine: Stay Active and Engaged

For Your Pet:

• Enrichment Activities: Keep your pet mentally stimulated with toys or puzzles. Dr. Karen Becker recommends using part of their kibble as treats for enrichment activities throughout the day (Becker, 2020). Websites like Chewy offer a variety of interactive toys to choose from.
• Walk and Play: A quick midday walk, training, or playtime helps break up their day and provides necessary physical or mental exercise.

For You:

• Physical Activity: Take plenty of breaks from work to stretch or go for a brief walk outside. And don’t forget to eat!
• Mental Break: Engage in a hobby or read a book to refresh your mind. 

Evening Routine: Winding Down Together

For Your Pet:

• Evening Mealtime: Feed your dog dinner a few hours before bedtime to ensure they have time to digest and go to the bathroom (American Kennel Club, 2021).
• Training Sessions: Spend time teaching your pet new tricks or reinforcing obedience skills. Positive reinforcement training is key, as outlined by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

For You:

• Unwind and Relax: Dedicate the evening to winding down. Practice yoga or take a relaxing bath. Yoga Journal offers excellent routines for relaxation.
• Quality Time: Spend time with your pet, whether it’s cuddling on the couch or enjoying a calm walk. This reinforces your bond and relaxes both of you.

Bedtime Routine: Ensuring Restful Sleep

For Your Pet:

• Comfortable Sleep Environment: Ensure your pet has a cozy, quiet place to sleep. A comfortable bed is essential, and sites like PetMD provide tips on choosing the right bed.
• Quiet Time: Reduce stimulation an hour before bedtime to help your pet wind down.

For You:

• Sleep Hygiene: Establish a bedtime routine that promotes restful sleep. This might include reading, turning off screens an hour before bed, and ensuring your sleep environment is comfortable. The Sleep Foundation offers comprehensive advice on improving sleep hygiene.

Resources for a Balanced Life

• Pet Nutrition: American Kennel Club Nutrition Guide
• Training Techniques: ASPCA Training Resources
• Mental Wellness: Headspace and Calm
• Healthy Recipes: Nutrition.gov
• Physical Exercise: Mayo Clinic Exercise Guide

By establishing a balanced routine, you ensure that both you and your pet lead happy, healthy, and confident lives. This structured approach not only caters to your pet’s needs but also allows you to maintain your well-being, creating a harmonious household where both pets and pet parents thrive.

Click here to download a free copy of our routine schedule (whether puppy stage and beyond).

Resources 

• American Kennel Club (AKC). (2021). Feeding Your Dog. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/how-to-feed-your-dog/
• Becker, K. (2020). Enrichment for Pets. Retrieved from https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2020/02/06/dog-enrichment-activities.aspx
• Coates, J. (2020). The Importance of Routine for Pets. Retrieved from https://www.petlifetoday.com/the-importance-of-routine-for-pets/
• VCA Hospitals. (2021). Feeding Times and Frequency for Dogs. Retrieved from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feeding-times-and-frequency-for-dogs