How to Help Your Dog Stay Calm During Back to School
As summer winds down and the back-to-school season begins, life gets busier — and that can mean dogs that have had their families home with them all summer may now find themselves home alone during busy days. While kids (and adults!) adjust to new routines, many dogs struggle with separation anxiety.
At Tailored Tails of Lubbock, we understand how stressful this transition can be for both you and your pup. Our holistic grooming and pet care philosophy means we don’t just focus on looking good — we help support your dog’s overall health, comfort, and happiness.
If your dog gets anxious when you leave, here are some expert-approved ways to make their alone time calmer and safer.
1. Create a Calm “Safe Space”
Give your dog a designated area where they feel comfortable when you’re away.
Use a crate if they’re crate-trained (never as punishment).
Add soft bedding, a favorite toy, and an item that smells like you.
Keep the area away from busy windows or noisy streets.
2. Practice Short Separations
If your dog is used to having you home all summer, start preparing them before the first school day.
Leave the house for just 5–10 minutes at first.
Gradually increase the time you’re gone.
Keep arrivals and departures low-key to reduce excitement or stress.
3. Provide Enrichment While You’re Away
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy.
Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys keep their brains busy.
Rotate toys so there’s always something “new” to explore.
Consider a safe chew toy to release nervous energy.
4. Keep a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on predictability.
Feed them at the same times each day.
Maintain a regular walk/exercise schedule.
Stick to a consistent bedtime and wake-up time — yes, even on weekends.
5. Get Professional Support
Sometimes, your dog may need personalized training to build confidence when home alone. That’s where our Certified Dog Trainer, Lori Gonzalez, comes in.
Lori specializes in gentle, positive reinforcement training that helps anxious dogs feel more secure. She can design a custom training plan to help your pup transition smoothly into the school-year routine.
📅 Book a consultation with Lori here: Tailored Tails Dog Training
6. Consider Doggy Playcare (Book Ahead!)
For dogs who really struggle being alone, our Tailored Tails Playcare program offers socialization, supervised play, and plenty of love — so your dog spends the day happy and engaged instead of lonely. We never put dogs together that aren’t from the same household. Dogs try to form a pack order when they are new to each other. While this is a perfectly normal activity, it can be very anxiety inducing making the situation worse. (Much like the first day of school for humans!)
💡 Pro Tip: Playcare spots fill up fast during the school year, so be sure to book in advance to reserve your pup’s place!
And here’s a little bonus — while your dog is here for Playcare, they can also enjoy a nail trim and file or even a full bath before heading home. (Because who doesn’t love a fresh, happy pup at the end of the day?)
Final Thoughts
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be stressful for your dog. With a little preparation, enrichment, and professional support, you can help them feel calm, safe, and confident — even when you’re not home.
At Tailored Tails of Lubbock, we’re here to make sure every dog feels loved, supported, and understood — whether they’re visiting us for grooming, training, or a fun day of play.
🐾 Ready to help your dog feel their best this school year?
Call us today at (806) 201-5313 or click here to schedule your consultation.
