Q: How important is routine in a dog’s life?
A: Sticking to a routine as much as possible has definite benefits for your dog. Dogs are creatures of habit, and just as routines are important to children and adults, they are also important for our dogs.
A stable and consistent routine provides security and predictability. When a dog knows what to expect because a routine is in place, they will feel more secure in their environment, are less likely to become stressed and are more balanced.
A dog that feels secure will find it easier to cope with any changes that may happen from time to time, whether planned or unexpected.
A simple example is that if your dog never knows when he will get fed, problems in behaviour and other areas could develop.
If a routine is in place, where your dog is fed every day at approximately the same time, this provides security and predictability, and he will feel safe and secure in his environment.
It isn’t always possible to stick to the same routine, but I would advise doing so as much as possible.
Alyson Kingsley-Hall, behaviourist
