When the school year kicks back into gear, everything changes, morning routines, energy levels in the house, and especially your dog’s daily schedule. While parents and kids prepare with backpacks and alarm clocks, dogs are often caught off guard by the shift in attention and activity.

As a professional dog trainer here in Erie, I see a spike in behavioral issues around this time every year. Fortunately, the solution isn’t complicated. With a little foresight and a few daily habits, your dog can navigate the back-to-school season calmly and confidently.

Why Dogs Struggle With Schedule Changes

Dogs thrive on consistency. When their environment shifts dramatically, many experience stress or even regression in their training. Some of the most common issues we see include:

• Excessive barking or howling when alone 
• Chewing furniture, shoes, or toys 
• Pacing or following family members constantly 
• Accidents inside, even with previously house-trained dogs 
• General anxiety or loss of appetite 

Most of these behaviors are rooted in confusion or separation anxiety. That’s why it’s crucial to prepare your dog gradually for the changes ahead.

Start Adjusting the Routine Early

If possible, begin resetting your dog’s daily schedule a week or two before school begins.

Easy ways to prepare:

• Adjust feeding times to match the school schedule 
• Walk your dog earlier in the morning 
• Begin practicing quiet alone time during the hours your dog will be left home 
• Have kids start leaving and returning as a drill, so your dog gets used to the cues 

This helps your dog associate the change with safety and predictability, rather than chaos or confusion.

Build Independence Through Structure

If your dog has been following everyone around all summer, they may struggle with being alone again. Teaching your dog to enjoy time by themselves is essential.

How to reinforce calm independence:

• Use crate training or a cozy designated “place” for rest periods 
• Encourage them to self-entertain with puzzle toys or chew items 
• Practice short, non-dramatic departures from the house 
• Provide mental enrichment during the day (see more below) 

Dogs that build confidence while alone tend to be calmer, happier, and better behaved. If your dog struggles with this skill, our Basic Obedience Training offers proven methods to foster independence and emotional control.

Morning Chaos? Not for Your Dog

School mornings are noisy, rushed, and often filled with last-minute scrambling. That energy can spill over onto your dog, leading to anxious pacing, barking, or disruptive behaviors.

Morning routine tips:

• Keep interactions with your dog calm and low-key 
• Provide a short walk or potty break first thing 
• Use the “place” command while the household gets ready 
• Give a food puzzle or safe chew during breakfast or departures 

A calm start sets the tone for the rest of your dog’s day.

Provide Midday Mental Stimulation

With everyone gone, your dog’s biggest enemy becomes boredom. When left unchecked, it often turns into chewing, barking, or anxiety behaviors.

Mental stimulation ideas:

• Frozen KONGs stuffed with dog-safe treats 
• Snuffle mats and food puzzles 
• DIY scent games or hidden kibble challenges 
• Interactive feeders or lick mats 

For more creative enrichment tips, check out our recent post on keeping your dog active when it’s too hot outside. Many of those same activities work perfectly when your dog is home alone during the school day.

Practice Leaving and Coming Home Calmly

If your dog gets overly excited or stressed when people come and go, the problem often starts with how those moments are handled.

Best practices for arrivals and departures:

• Keep goodbyes brief and unemotional 
• Ignore your dog for the first few minutes after arriving home 
• Only give attention when they’re calm and relaxed 
• Avoid reinforcing hyper or anxious behaviors with affection 

This helps your dog regulate their emotions and stop anticipating every door slam or backpack zip as a big event.

Be Aware of Stress Signals

Watch for subtle signs of stress during the transition, especially if your dog:

• Starts having accidents indoors 
• Whines or barks excessively 
• Destroys furniture or household items 
• Refuses food when alone 
• Tries to escape or hide 

Catching and addressing these issues early prevents long-term anxiety from developing. If your dog continues to struggle despite your efforts, it may be time to bring in a professional for guidance.

When to Seek Professional Support

Not all dogs adjust easily. If your dog is showing signs of severe separation anxiety or disruptive behavior, training intervention can make a huge difference.

At Off Leash K9 Training Erie, we offer customized programs that address the unique challenges that come with seasonal and lifestyle changes. Whether your dog needs help staying calm, listening around distractions, or building independence, our experienced team can create a plan that works for your family.

Trusted Resource for Dog Parents

For a deeper dive into this topic, the American Kennel Club’s guide on dog separation anxiety offers expert insight into symptoms, prevention, and how to address it effectively.

Final Thoughts

Back-to-school season is a time of transition for the whole family, your dog included. By taking a few proactive steps to ease the adjustment, you’ll prevent unwanted behavior, reduce stress, and help your dog feel safe even when the house gets quiet again.

And if you need a little help along the way, Off Leash K9 Training Erie is here to support your dog’s success, no matter the season.

Ready to get started? Reach out to us through our contact page and let’s talk about your dog’s needs.