School's Out! Keeping Dogs and Children Happy Together During the Summer Holidays

For many families, the start of the summer holidays means a house full of excited children, later bedtimes, days out and plenty of fun. While the holidays can be a wonderful time for making memories, they can also be a big adjustment for our dogs.

Dogs thrive on predictability, and suddenly having children home all day, extra visitors, different routines and more noise can sometimes leave them feeling a little overwhelmed. With a little planning though, the holidays can be enjoyable for everyone - both two-legged and four-legged!

Keep Your Dog's Routine as Normal as Possible

Whilst it's impossible to keep everything exactly the same during the holidays, try to maintain the parts of your dog's routine that matter most.

Where possible, keep feeding times and walks at roughly the same time each day. Predictable routines help dogs feel secure and can reduce stress, especially if the rest of the household feels a little more chaotic than usual.

Every Dog Needs a Safe Space

One of the most important things you can do is make sure your dog has somewhere they can completely relax without being disturbed.

Whether that's a crate with the door left open, a quiet room, a bed in the corner or somewhere behind a baby gate, your dog should always have the option to walk away from the excitement.

It's just as important to teach children that when the dog is in their quiet space, they're off limits. Sleeping dogs should always be left alone, no matter how tempting it is to cuddle them. Giving dogs the choice to rest peacefully helps prevent them from becoming overwhelmed and teaches children to respect their space.

Give Dogs Space Around Food and Chews

Many dogs value their food, treats and favourite chews. That's completely normal.

Children should be taught never to approach a dog while they're eating, never to take food or toys away from them and to give them plenty of space while they enjoy a chew. If you do need to remove something from your dog, it's much safer for an adult to do this using positive training rather than simply taking it away.

Helping children understand these simple rules keeps everyone much safer and helps build trust with your dog.

Make the Most of Time Together

The summer holidays are a brilliant opportunity for children to get involved in caring for and interacting with the family dog in positive ways.

Depending on your child's age, they could help with:

• Stuffing Kongs or other food toys.

• Preparing simple enrichment activities.

• Hiding treats for scent games.

• Teaching fun tricks using rewards.

• Playing hide and seek.

• Splashing around together in a paddling pool on warm days (if your dog enjoys water!).

Not only are these activities fun, but they also provide great mental stimulation for your dog and help children learn how to interact kindly and respectfully.

Plan Dog-Friendly Adventures

If you're looking for ways to entertain the children, why not include the dog too?

There are so many fantastic dog-friendly attractions, parks, beaches, woodlands and cafés to explore. A quick search online can uncover some brilliant local days out that the whole family can enjoy together.

Just remember to consider the weather. During hot spells, plan walks for cooler parts of the day, carry fresh water and never push your dog beyond what they're comfortable with.

It's Okay If Every Trip Isn't Dog Friendly

Not every family day out is suitable for dogs, and that's absolutely fine.

If you're planning a trip where dogs aren't allowed, or somewhere that would simply be too busy, hot or stressful for them, don't feel guilty about leaving them at home.

Instead, arrange for a trusted dog walker, pet sitter or friend to pop in, or book them in with a professional who can give them some company while you're out. Often, your dog will be far happier relaxing at home than spending hours in an environment they wouldn't enjoy.

A Little Thought Goes a Long Way

Summer holidays are all about having fun, and with a little planning, your dog can enjoy them too.

By respecting your dog's space, maintaining some familiar routines and involving children in safe, positive activities, you're helping to build a relationship based on understanding and trust.

The best memories are made when everyone feels safe, relaxed and happy - and that includes our dogs too.