Tips that will help you create an attractive daily schedule for your dog

Most experts recommend feeding your dog twice a day, although some dogs are satisfied with just one meal a day. Adult dogs will receive one meal in the morning and one in the evening. The food plan varies depending on the breed of the animal. Small dogs prefer to be fed more often than large dogs. However, puppies have other nutritional needs: for example, puppies under five months of age need to be fed more frequently than adult or older dogs. The vet recommends about three or four meals a day. We will avoid, as far as possible, feeding the dog several times a day. This will lead to obesity and many other health problems.

Water: Dogs like to have access to clean water.

Give your pet fresh water every day and make sure the bowl is clean and washed. Some dog breeds are more active than others and need more water. In general, chickens drink more water than adults. It is important to monitor your dog’s water intake to ensure he is getting enough. If the dog drinks more than the usual amount of water, it is possible that he is experiencing a health problem and further investigations are necessary.

Regular disposal – dogs prefer to be taken out every 6-8 hours to satisfy their physiological needs. Small breeds and puppies need more frequent visits outdoors than large breeds or older dogs.

Sleep – Dogs like to sleep approximately 12 to 18 hours a day. They sleep longer than humans but wake up more often. Sleep needs differ from breed to breed. For example, the Siberian Husky, the French Bulldog, the Basset Hound, the Chihuahua, the Pug and the Great Dane are the breeds that need the most sleep. Puppies need an average of 20 hours of sleep, while older dogs and large breeds need more rest than younger ones. A dog that lives in an apartment or house and doesn’t get much physical activity will tend to sleep more. There are situations where the dog prefers to sleep when left alone for a longer period of time or feels bored.

Play: Dogs like to play with their owners.

When there is a regular program of physical activity, he will be in excellent shape both mentally and emotionally. Fun and games activities eliminate various forms of stress and anxiety. There are several ways to involve the animal and stimulate his interest in the game. Pet stores offer a generous range of toys. It is recommended to purchase different types of toys to give your dog different options. Provide the dog with various toys and games and observe his reactions. He will definitely choose the ones that suit his personality, needs and energy level. The dog will appreciate the presence of its owners, but can also be happy to interact with another animal. Various types of relationships help satisfy the need for connection. Specialists recommend two periods of play per day for at least 15 minutes. Of course this varies from case to case depending on the dog’s personality and energy level.

Regardless, activities and involvement with your dog will help deepen your bond with your pet. Play brings joy and vitality. Even if your daily schedule is busy, it’s a good idea to set aside a special moment to spend with your friend who doesn’t speak.

A break: Dogs will feel good even when they are simply left alone.

The functions of the animal body are regulated by the circadian rhythm. This is the natural orientation mechanism of all living things. Physical, mental and behavioral changes occur throughout the 24 hours of the day. The organism therefore adapts its functions based on the day-night alternation, the seasons, the influence of the Sun and the phases of the moon. Even if the animal lives in a home environment and learns to adapt to the human schedule, it needs space for the natural balance of body functions.

Below is an indicative morning program that can be adapted based on the rhythm of daily life:

• Wake up, do your morning ritual, and then get ready for work.

After completing these steps, call the dog and go out for a morning walk together. Typically this time is dedicated to physiological needs, but 10-15 minutes of play can also be included. Here we might include running, brisk walking and a training session. This is an opportunity to observe the animal’s general physical condition and energy level.

• Upon returning, it would be advisable to let the dog wait a few moments in front of the door, and then serve him the food.

In this way the animal will appreciate the meal offered more and when left alone it will show a lower level of anxiety. This short-term postponement of the reward causes the dog to feel greater appreciation towards the owner when he offers him the meal.

• Then there will certainly be a period of relaxation or sleep until around lunchtime when the animal will be ready for another play session.

When you leave the house, don’t forget to hide some delicious treats around the house. Even if he is alone, he will have stimulating activity when he smells the food. When you return from work, offer your dog a good meal, clean water and a short play session. He will also appreciate a walk after dinner. The dog greatly enjoys the presence and attention of its owner, although sometimes, if left alone for a longer period of time, sadness and apathy appear. Separation anxiety is a common phenomenon among dogs. Some research has highlighted the fact that pets, especially dogs, are able to sense the proximity of the homeowner. They detect the finest signals with the help of smell. This way we can explain why they are present on the door when we are close to home.

The dog needs attention and care. A simple daily schedule helps both your pet and you enjoy the present moment and share moments of joy.