Keeping your dog on a regular schedule is great for their training, helping them learn a routine and giving both of you a sense of structure. During the summer, longer days make taking longer walks and planning outdoor training sessions easier. But as fall arrives, it’s time to adjust that routine. Here’s how to adapt your dog’s training schedule for the shorter days ahead.
Adjusting Your Dog's Training Routine for Shorter Fall Days
Plan Around Daylight
As the sun sets earlier, you’ll have fewer hours of daylight. The best thing you can do is try to schedule walks, training, or playtime during the day. This could be in the early afternoon when the sun is bright or first thing in the morning after sunrise.
Wear Reflective Gear
Consider wearing reflective gear if you want to stick to your usual schedule. Reflective clothing helps drivers and others see you more easily at night. You can find reflective options for yourself while walking your dog, along with reflective collars or leashes for your pup. This added visibility will help you track them, especially in the backyard when it gets dark.
Train Inside
If you can, move your training sessions inside. This means you can keep playtime in the living room or work on obedience commands in the kitchen. You can also play fun indoor games like hide and seek or puzzles. Creating a space for your dog to play on dark or rainy days is a great way to ensure they get the stimulation they need.
Be Aware of Colder Temperatures
As the days get shorter, the weather becomes colder, which can affect your dog depending on their breed. Research your dog's breed to understand what temperatures they can handle and for how long. Some dogs, like huskies, thrive in colder weather and may prefer to stay outside. However, other breeds may struggle with the cold. If your dog is sensitive to low temperatures, consider wearing a sweater before walks and closely monitoring their outdoor time on chilly days.
Stay Consistent
Dogs love having a routine and often remember when it’s time for their daily walk or meal. The best way to keep your pup happy is to stay consistent and maintain the routine. This helps both of you stay on track and prevents behavioral issues.
Transform Your Dog's Training This Fall
Don't allow your dog's training progress to be hampered by shorter days. We at Equilibrium Canine know how difficult it may be to continue training regularly throughout seasonal shifts. Our expert training programs, such as our all-inclusive Board and Train program, can assist your dog in adjusting to new routines while preserving their ability to obey. Our skilled trainer, Nick, who is based in Wilmington, Massachusetts, specializes in developing year-round, tailored training programs. We can help you and your dog succeed in any season, whether you're interested in our behavior modification programs, lead work training, or private day training. Please make an appointment for a consultation with Equilibrium Canine right now to find out how we can support you in continuing productive training regimens throughout the autumn and beyond.
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