Are you pondering whether to include your dog on your daily school run routine? You’re not alone.
Many dog guardians grapple with this decision as they balance their 4-legged friends and family responsibilities. Fortunately, we’ve consulted leading dog experts and trainers to provide you with insights into this matter. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of taking your dog or new puppy to school and offer practical tips for a successful school run with a dog.
Whether you’re a devoted dog parent weighing your options or just curious about the idea, this guide will empower you to make a well-informed decision that benefits both your family and your pup.
A huge thankyou to Jeanette Muldoon from The Family Dog Club, Debby Lucken from Kids Around Dogs, Zoe Gilbert from Lead the Field Dog Training and Vickie Barker from Dog Confidence for sharing their invaluable opinions.
Benefits of including your dog on the school run
Taking your dog on the school run can bring some advantages for both you and your dog. However, it’s crucial to remember that the extent to which these benefits apply to you and your dog – it all depends!
1. Quality bonding time
First and foremost, bringing your dog on the school can provide invaluable bonding moments with your dog. However, the amount of bonding time you’ll enjoy during the school run can vary (if any at all!).
It depends on the unique personalities of both you and your dog, as well as the specific environment you encounter.
Some dogs may relish the time spent with their humans during the school run, while others may be easily distracted or anxious.
A walk down a country lane to a local village school is going to bring about a vastly different experience to walking up a busy main road.
Your bond with your dog is a personal journey, and including them on the school run can be just one of many ways to strengthen or weaken it.
Consider your dog’s personality and if bringing them on the school run is going to be beneficial for everyone involved.
2. Social opportunities
Bringing your dog along offers an excellent chance for socialising. However, the degree to which your dog benefits from socialising during the school run also depends on various factors. Some dogs are naturally outgoing and thrive on meeting new people and dogs, while others may be more reserved or wary. In fact, when a dog is constantly put into a situation they find overwhelming they are going to become more, not less anxious. It is not a case of them “getting used to it”.
For an outgoing dog they’re going to learn that meeting people and dogs is lots of fun, which can negatively affect recall and pulling on the lead. And it can also result in frustration. It’s essential to gauge your dog’s comfort level and again the environment and situations they are going to experience when making a decision.
‘Social opportunities’ is not the same as the sensitive period for socialisation in young puppies which ends at around the age of 12 – 14 weeks of age.
3. Promoting active living
Dogs need regular exercise for their physical health, and the school run can become a part of their fitness routine.
However, some dogs have higher energy levels and may benefit from additional exercise beyond the school run.
Consider your dog’s breed, age, and overall health when determining their exercise requirements.
4. Stress reduction
In my blog, ‘January blues? 3 mood boosting activities to do with your puppy’ I quoted:
Just playing with dogs has been shown to elevate oxytocin and dopamine, creating positive feelings and bonding for both the person and their pet.According to the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
So, bringing your dog along on the school run could have a stress-reducing effect, but it all depends.
It’s going to differ from person to person and from dog to dog. And it’s unlikely you’ll playing with your pup on the way to school.
While some guardians and their children may find solace and relaxation in their dog’s company during the school run, others might prefer to concentrate on the matter at hand.
The main concern for me is that you’re not able to fully focus on your dog, their body language whilst giving your full attention to your children, and chatting to other parents.jeanette muldoon – the family dog club
5. Time efficiency
Whether including your dog in the school run enhances time efficiency depends on your specific circumstances. For some families, it can indeed streamline their daily routine, while others may find it adds complexity. Assess your family’s schedule and commitments to determine if integrating your dog into the school run aligns with your lifestyle.
In conclusion to the benefits of bringing your dog along on the school run, the decision is a nuanced one.
It’s important to recognise that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your dog’s temperament, your personal preferences, and the unique dynamics of your family all play a vital role in making this choice. By weighing these factors and considering the “it all depends” aspect, you can make a decision that aligns with the well-being and happiness of both your family and your pup.
Drawbacks of taking your dog on the school run
While there are some advantages to including your dog on the school run, it’s crucial to consider potential challenges.
1. Distractions
The school run can be a hectic and distracting environment. You, your child or your dog may be easily drawn to all the commotion, making it challenging to keep everyone safe and happy.
2. Added Responsibility
Bringing your dog along means added responsibilities.
You’ll need to ensure you leave the house with everything you need for you, your dog and your child.
Speaking from experience, just your kids’ stuff is hard to keep track of at times.
It can be a lot to handle, especially on busy mornings.
And what if your child’s teacher wants a quick chat or you have a message to pass on?
Leaving your dog tied up outside the school gates involves the risk of them being stolen, treated unfairly and frightened by a stranger or pushed into a situation where they can’t cope or escape (therefore they have no other option).
As a professional dog trainer, I’d never leave my dogs tied up outside the school gates or a shop for the matter. It only takes a second for something to happen.
3. Temperament
Your dog’s temperament matters.
Some dogs may not thrive in a bustling school run environment and may become anxious or agitated.
On balance, the cons of doing this outweigh any potential benefits. It’s a recipe for the puppy either feeling overwhelmed and anxious or a puppy that needs to meet and greet everyone. Neither of these outcomes are beneficial I feel for creating a confident dog and a secure attachment to the guardian.Vickie barker – dog confidence
Considerations for bringing your new puppy on the school run
Before you decide to include your new puppy in your daily school run, there are several key factors to carefully consider:
1. Positive socialisation and exposure
Take a moment to reflect on your puppy’s exposure to various environments and experiences. It’s essential to recognise that your new pup needs to become accustomed to different settings gradually. This process is especially crucial before introducing them to the bustling school run. The school run often attracts many well-intentioned people who want to pet your puppy. However, it’s vital to remember that your pup isn’t public property. They may feel overwhelmed or stressed in the midst of all the attention, and their signals of discomfort or anxiety could be easily overlooked. This can lead to negative experiences with people, children, and the busy atmosphere of the school run.
If not managed appropriately, such experiences could result in long-term issues for your sensitive pup.
Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your puppy’s initial interactions with the school run are positive and controlled.
My concern is how overwhelming crowds of people touching a puppy can be… (seen so many times!)New owners not understanding or able to read their puppy’s body language and when new owners think they need to socialise the puppy on the school run by allowing everyone to touch the puppy. Often Missing signals that the puppy is stressedzoe gilbert – lead the field dog training
2. Alone time
Consider that a new puppy hasn’t yet learned how to be comfortable when left alone at home. In situations where there is no one at home to look after them, you may need to seek assistance or make arrangements to bring your new puppy with you.
Reach out to a neighbour or friend for help with your pup or with your child in such circumstances.
If that isn’t feasible, it’s worth discussing your situation with the school. Perhaps you can adjust your schedule slightly, arriving either a bit early or late with your child and pup in tow.
Gradually acclimating your puppy to periods of alone time is essential. Begin by building up their tolerance for your absence slowly until they become comfortable with being on their own.
3. Time and energy
Lastly, take an honest look at your own availability and energy levels.
Ensure that you can meet your puppy’s needs on a deep level both before and after the school run.
You might find these blog post helpful: Creating a puppy training plan: 6 essential elements – Landing on Your Paws
By evaluating these factors and making well-informed choices, you can create a positive experience for your puppy during the school run, fostering a strong and loving bond between your family and your newest four-legged member.
Tips for a successful school run with your dog
If you decide to include your dog on the school run, follow these tips for a smooth experience:
1. Establish a routine
Dogs thrive on routine, so try to maintain a consistent schedule for feeding and walking.
2. Be prepared
Pack essential supplies like poop bags, water, and treats.
Set off in plenty of time.
3. Assess temperament
If your dog exhibits signs of anxiety or aggression in busy environments, consider alternative options like a dog walker or enlisting help from a friend or family member.
4. Patience is key
Be patient and take things slowly.
Deciding whether to bring your dog on the school run is a thoughtful decision that demands careful consideration. We’ve explored the potential benefits, drawbacks, and considerations involved. We’ve shared insights from experts. Prioritise the well-being of your family and your four-legged friend, consult with professionals, and assess your resources before making a final decision. In the end, choose what ensures fulfilment and happiness for both you and your pup.
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You might also like this blog by the fantastic Debby Lucken, founder of Kids Around Dogs: Kids are going back to school… what is it like for you and the dogs? – Kids Around Dogs
If you'd like to read more from this APDT Member visit her website here
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