How Do I Know If My Dog Likes Daycare?
If you’re a dog owner, you know the satisfaction of coming home after a long day of work to a dog that is excited to see you. It’s one of the best feelings in the world, making it that much harder when you have to leave the next morning again. If you’re gone for long hours during the day, it may be time to consider dog daycare to keep your pup entertained and cared for during your workday.
Finding a good dog daycare doesn’t have to be difficult. Once you research daycares in your area and make the necessary introductions, there are a few telltale signs to look out for to determine if your pup will enjoy spending the day at daycare. Keep reading for more information about how to tell if your dog might like daycare.
What is Doggy Daycare?
Most dogs, puppies especially, have an increased need for socialization, stimulation, and exercise. Too much time alone or in a crate can be unhealthy. Doggy daycare is a great way to get your pup the attention that they need and deserve while you’re at work or away from home for extended periods of time. Many busy pet parents take advantage of doggy daycares because it allows your pup to meet and play with other dogs, get more mental stimulation throughout the day, exercise, and understand how to behave better around strangers.
Once your pup has a few days or weeks to get used to the new routine of going to dog daycare on a daily basis, here are a few signs to look out for in order to tell if they are enjoying their time or not.
They Get Excited To Go
Just like your pup likely perks up and gets excited when you mention the word “walk” or “park,” they may start reacting the same way around the time that you usually take them to daycare. This is a good sign that they like going just as much as they like going for a walk or playing fetch with a ball at the park. They may even perk up at the mention of the word “daycare.”
They Are Calm When You Arrive
Another easy way to tell if your dog enjoys going to dog daycare is if they are calm when you arrive at the facility. Many dogs will try to resist going somewhere they don’t enjoy, such as the vet or a grooming appointment. They may act anxious or show signs of aggression. However, if when you drop them off every morning at the daycare they are excited or their tail is wagging as you go in, it’s a good sign that they are happy to be there.
They Respond Positively to the Staff
Most dog owners know that when your pup doesn’t like someone, they show it. Their tail stops wagging, they get still, or they may even growl. On the other hand, when your pup likes someone, it’s just as easy to tell. When you drop them off at daycare in the morning, are they excited to see the staff or are they scared? If they’re excited, it’s more likely that they like the dog daycare you chose.
They Are Happy & Calm at the End of the Day
If, in general, your dog seems happy all the time after you’ve started bringing them to dog daycare, you don’t have to worry about whether or not they like it there. The best dog daycare will make sure that your dog is entertained and cared for while you’re at work or gone for the day.
If you’re worried about leaving your pup home for long periods of time while you work, or even if you work from home and don’t have the time to give your dog the attention he or she needs, dog daycare can be a great option. Not only will it benefit your dog and keep them happy and healthy, but it will allow you to take care of your responsibilities without having to worry about the health and well-being of your favourite furry friend. If you need help finding a good dog daycare or puppy classes in your area, be sure to talk to your vet or a local pet store in order to find for your dog the care they need and deserve to live a happy and healthy life.