Back to Routine: Easing Your Dog into Post-Summer Holiday Schedules

Summer holidays are a time for adventure – long family walks, lazy afternoons in the garden, and maybe even trips away together. But once September rolls around and it’s time to head back to work or school, many dogs can find the change in pace and routine a little unsettling.

For weeks, they’ve had constant company and stimulation, and suddenly the house is quiet again. Just like us, dogs are creatures of habit, and they may struggle when those habits shift. The good news is that with a little planning, patience, and support, you can help your pup feel calm and secure as everyone settles back into their routine.

The transition from summer break to “normal life” often brings:

• Less company: Dogs go from being surrounded by the family all day to spending longer stretches alone.
  
  

• Shifts in mealtime and walk times: With busy mornings, feeding and exercise can become more structured (or rushed).
  
  

• Changes in energy: The buzz of summer activities winds down, leaving dogs confused by the sudden quiet.
  
  

These changes can trigger separation anxiety, restlessness, or even unwanted behaviours like chewing, barking, or scratching.

Keep an eye out for:

• Whining, barking, or howling when left alone
  
  

• Following you from room to room
  
  

• Pacing or agitation
  
  

• Loss of appetite
  
  

• Destructive behaviours (chewing shoes, scratching doors, tearing up toys)
  
  

• Accidents in the house
  
  

If your dog is showing these behaviours, it’s a sign they need a little extra support during the adjustment period.

Before the holiday ends, start easing your dog back into their normal feeding and walk times. Move meal and exercise times closer to your term-time schedule in small steps so it doesn’t feel like a sudden change.

Dogs find comfort in predictability. Feeding them at the same times each day gives them a sense of stability and security.

If you’re heading out for the school run or work, give your dog a proper walk or play session in the morning. Burning off energy helps them relax while you’re out.

Enrichment toys, puzzle feeders, and lick mats can keep your pup occupied when left alone. This reduces boredom and helps prevent destructive behaviours.

Give your dog a cosy area they associate with comfort – a crate, bed, or a quiet corner with their blanket. Leaving behind a worn T-shirt with your scent can also be reassuring.

If your dog isn’t used to being left alone for long stretches, start small. Leave them for 10–15 minutes and slowly build up to longer periods. Always reward calm behaviour when you return.

Helping your dog adjust after the summer holidays is about more than easing short-term stress. A consistent daily routine also:

• Improves digestion and appetite

• Reduces anxiety and hyperactivity

• Encourages better sleep

• Strengthens training and good behaviour

• Deepens the bond between you and your dog

How do I help my dog adjust after the summer holidays?
Start by reintroducing a consistent routine for meals, walks, and rest. Provide mental stimulation and gradually increase the time they spend alone. Supplements like Peaceful Pooch can offer extra support.

Why does my dog act out when I go back to work after holidays?
Your dog may be experiencing separation anxiety after enjoying constant companionship during the summer. Destructive behaviours, barking, or restlessness are often signs of stress, not “naughtiness.”

Should I walk my dog before leaving them alone?
Yes! A good walk or play session helps your dog burn energy and feel more relaxed while you’re away. A tired dog is usually a calmer dog.

Can calming supplements help my dog adjust?
Absolutely. Natural calming aids like Peaceful Pooch can help ease anxiety during routine changes, providing gentle support without drowsiness.

How long does it take for dogs to settle back into routine?
Every dog is different, but most adjust within a couple of weeks with consistent support. Patience, positive reinforcement, and a stable routine make the process smoother.

The end of the summer holidays marks a big shift – not just for us, but for our dogs too. After weeks of family fun, late evenings, and plenty of together time, suddenly the house feels quieter and the daily routine becomes stricter. For many pups, this change can feel confusing and even a little overwhelming.

The key to helping your dog through this transition is patience, consistency, and understanding. Remember, your dog isn’t misbehaving when they chew, bark, or cling a little more than usual – they’re simply communicating that they feel unsettled. By recognising these signs and responding with calm reassurance, you’re already taking the right steps.

Routine is one of the greatest gifts we can give our dogs. Regular mealtimes, walks, play sessions, and rest periods help them feel safe and secure. Over time, they’ll come to rely on these patterns, reducing their stress levels and making them happier, healthier companions. Pair that structure with mental stimulation, a safe space to retreat to, and lots of positive reinforcement, and you’ll soon see your pup settling back into daily life with confidence.

And for those moments when they need a little extra support, Peaceful Pooch is here to help. Whether sprinkled over their dinner or offered as a tasty plant-based chew, it’s a gentle, natural way to ease anxiety and restore calm. Think of it as an extra layer of comfort for your dog as they navigate life’s changes – from the end of summer, to fireworks season, to everyday moments of stress.

At the heart of it all, dogs want what we all want: love, reassurance, and a sense of belonging. With your care, consistency, and a little natural support along the way, your pup will not only cope with the return to routine – they’ll thrive in it. And when your dog is happy and relaxed, the whole family benefits. After all, a peaceful pooch really does make for a peaceful home.