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Back-to-School for Dog Parents: Finding Calm and Routine Again
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Episode 11: Back-to-School for Dog Parents: Finding Calm and Routine Again
September is (almost) here, routines are shifting, and both you and your dog are feeling the change. The kids are heading back to school, work ramps up, and suddenly the calm of summer is replaced with earlier alarms, busy mornings, and less free time.
And here’s the thing: your dog notices. They thrive on predictability, so when life suddenly speeds up, it can leave them unsettled, and leave you feeling guilty, frazzled, and overwhelmed.
In this episode of The Mindful Dog Parent, I’m talking about how those changes affect both you and your dog emotionally, why “back-to-school stress” impacts behaviour, and three simple ways you can bring more calm and connection into your September routine.
💛 What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Why routine changes hit both dogs and humans harder than we expect.
- How guilt shows up for dog parents this time of year, and how to lighten the load.
- Three ways to bring calm back into your daily rhythm:
- Keep one anchor routine — a predictable moment each day your dog can count on.
- Build in reset points — short breaks that regulate you and your dog’s nervous systems.
- Simplify your training focus — choose one clear priority instead of juggling everything at once.
- A 7-day mini challenge to help you reset with your dog this week.
Your 7-Day Back-to-School Challenge:
Try this rhythm to bring more calm into your September:
1️⃣ Choose one anchor routine to keep steady this month (morning sniffy walk, bedtime cuddle, etc.).
2️⃣ Create one reset point each day (chew, sniff walk, calm play, or just sitting together quietly).
3️⃣ Notice and write down one micro win each day (quicker settling, softer energy, more check-ins).
Small, steady shifts add up. And they’re what will help you and your dog find balance again during busy times.
If this episode landed with you, please share it with a fellow dog parent who’s feeling the “back-to-school” chaos. And if you’re craving more structured support, don’t forget to join my Calm Connection Challenge at the end of September, a free 4-day reset designed to help you and your dog rebuild calm, confidence, and connection.
Links mentioned in the show:
- My free Calm Connection Challenge: lavendergardenanimalservices.co.uk/calm-connection-challenge
- Find out more about what I do, and how you can work with me: lavendergardenanimalservices.co.uk
- Send me a DM or connect with me: @lavendergardenanimalservices on Instagram
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