As much as we want to spend hours interacting with our dogs, we also have responsibilities to tend to. Our jobs, family, hobbies, and various other commitments all demand our attention just as much as our pets.
But being a busy pet owner doesn’t mean you have to be a bad one. So if you’re planning to get yourself a pup or already have one, here are a few things you can do to ensure that your dog is well taken care of even when you’re unavailable.
Take Account Of Their Needs
Making sure your dog is well-fed, comfortable, and clean is the most essential part of dog ownership. As such, activities related to these three basics should be fulfilled of regardless of whether you’re busy or not.
Fortunately, these can be done simply by dedicating a small portion of your time and attention to feeding, bathing, and grooming your dog. This includes paying close attention to the products you buy for your dog such as dog food, vitamins, hygiene products, and accessories to ensure that they are the right one for your dog.
Create A Routine
Just as you manage your time at work, you should also manage the time spent with your pooch. A routine puts your dog at ease as scheduled activities are easier for them to anticipate.
A routine also has the added benefit of teaching your dog patience which is especially important if they are often left alone in the house. However, once you have set a schedule, you need to make sure that you stick to it religiously so as to not disappoint your dog’s expectations.
Proper Training
While all dogs need some level of training, busy owners need to take it a step further in order to not only promote good behavior but also instill discipline in their dogs even when they’re not around.
Devote at least 2-3 days a week for training sessions in order to teach basic commands and set boundaries such as couch privileges to your dog. These sessions need not be long, but they must be consistent in order to achieve the desired effect on your dog.
Regular Exercise
Humans and dogs both need exercise to ensure a healthy body so why not kill two birds with one stone by combining your routines. This can be as simple as taking brisk walks together in the morning to going to a nearby park or field for games such as fetch or frisbee.
Even if you’re squeezed for time, make sure to include exercise into your daily regimen as it is one activity your dog will greatly enjoy while also providing you with plenty of health benefits.
Find A Playmate
Most dogs love to socialize and while we’re not suggesting you to get another dog to keep them company, having them meet and play with other dogs a few times a month will be greatly beneficial.
Consider taking them to a local playground where other dog owners spend time. Better yet, find a fellow dog owner so you can schedule a playdate with their pooch. If you have the cash to spare, doggy daycare is also a great option as it has the added benefit of having a dedicated person watch over your dog.
Take Them To Work
While not applicable to everyone, some workplaces do allow employees to bring their pets to work. If you’re lucky enough to be working for such a company, consider taking advantage of this offer.
The experience will be fun for your dog and your co-workers are more than likely to enjoy the company of a cute and cuddly dog. Just make sure your dog is properly trained to avoid any potential complications during their stay.
Spend Some Quality Time
As their owner, your dog will ultimately demand your love and attention and conversely, you may need your dog to help reduce the stress you experience from having a busy schedule. Thus it is important to set aside some special bonding time with your dog whether it’s simply relaxing on the couch or doing something fun.
Since you spend most of your time away from home, giving them your undivided attention can mean a lot for your dog and will go a long way when it comes to keeping them content and at ease whenever you’re gone.
Pick The Right Breed For You
If you’re just considering getting your first dog and have yet to decide on a breed, you can save yourself a lot of time and effort by getting a dog that fits your busy schedule.
Breeds such as the Bulldog, Basset Hound, Mastiff, and Chow-Chow are perfect for busy owners as they are less active than most breeds. If you’re looking for something smaller because you live in a small home or an apartment, a Boston Terrier, Shih Tzu, or Pug is more than happy to spend their day frolicking indoors.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask long-time dog owners for their advice on the pros and cons of owning a particular breed. This not only helps you decide on what breed is perfect for you but also gives you an understanding of what it means to be a pet parent.
