Dog Daycare Myths Debunked What You Really Need To Know
Dog Daycare Myths Debunked What You Really Need To Know
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How Do Dogs Sleep at Daycare?
When you pick up your dog after a day at doggy daycare, their body language and mood tell a lot. A calm and relaxed dog that doesn't appear overly excited indicates that they got plenty of rest during their play day.
Just like humans, dogs are polyphasic sleepers and take naps throughout the day to collect their required amount of rest. Offering rest breaks in between play helps dogs learn to self-regulate and manage their energy levels.
Signs Your Dog is Tired
A day of running around and playing with friends is sure to tire out your dog. The staff at your doggie daycare provide safe and comfortable spaces for dogs to rest when they need it.
When you collect your dog from their day of fun and excitement, a happy, well-rested pup should greet you with a tail wag and interest in treats or favourite toys. If your dog appears sluggish or sleepy upon arrival, this is a sign they are tired.
Mild lethargy is normal for dogs who have overdone their exercise, particularly in hot weather. Taking a short nap should make them feel better, but if they do not wake up feeling more alert and energized you may need to consult your vet or the emergency vet service. Severe lethargy is a more serious issue and can be the result of various conditions.
Signs Your Dog is Stressed
Dogs don’t have the ability to articulate what is stressing them, so observing changes in their behavior can be helpful. For example, if your typically calm dog becomes aggressive, barks excessively, or hides under furniture, these are signs that they are stressed out. Likewise, if your usually friendly dog starts having accidents or defecating in inappropriate places, this is another sign that they are stressed out and need comfort and reassurance. Other indicators of stress include tucked ears, raised hackles, lip-licking, and yawning. These behaviors occur in clusters, so if you notice several of them together, it is likely that your dog is stressed.
When you pick up your dog from daycare, it is generally a good sign if they appear calm and relaxed. A jumpy, wiggly dog that is overjoyed to see you might indicate that they had a busy, exciting day at daycare. However, if your dog looks sluggish and sleepy when you bring them home, it is an indicator that they might need more rest after daycare.
Signs Your Dog is Happy
Typically, dogs who are happy and enjoying daycare will have an increased activity level throughout the day. However, all dogs need rest breaks to balance their social interaction and exercise needs. This is why most doggie daycares incorporate a structured rest period into their furry guests’ schedules.
Other signs that your pup is feeling good are a high and waggy tail and floppy ears that fall naturally against their head. dogs boarding near me They may also be showing the zoomies, which are short bursts of energy and running around that show they are having a fun time.
When it is time to collect your pup at the end of the day, they should be eager to see you and greet staff at the door with a joyful wag. If they seem a bit drowsy when you pick them up, this is likely due to a long day of playing and exercising, which is good for them! They had a great day at daycare.
Signs Your Dog is Disappointed
When a dog is not happy at daycare, it shows in its body language. Oftentimes, dogs will display this sadness by acting anxious or hiding when they see telltale cues that you are leaving (like you putting on your coat and taking your keys). It is also common for dogs to act depressed and sad after returning home from a long day at daycare.
Interestingly, you can sometimes identify a dog that is unhappy at daycare by the way their eyes look. During a time of stress or fear, the dog may squint so that their eyes look “glassy,” with lots of white showing around the edges.
When your dog is eager to race toward the facility when it’s time to pick them up, this shows they associate daycare with positive experiences and a good environment. This is a great sign! They might even be a little drowsy when they are brought to you at pick-up time, which is a sign that they were well rested.