The Benefits of Doggie Daycare
Table of Contents
Dogs who don’t get adequate socialization can develop anxiety and behavioral problems like chewing, licking, or excessive barking. Daycares can also facilitate consistency of routine and structure for dogs that are easily overwhelmed by new environments.
Doggie daycare Jacksonville, FL can give your pup the physical activity they need to stay healthy and avoid boredom, often leading to destructive behaviors like chewing furniture.
Socialization
Not-socialized dogs may be anxious in new situations, such as the dog park or a visit to the animal hospital. A well-socialized dog will approach these environments with confidence. They will see other dogs as possible friends instead of potential aggressors.
A good hands-on daycare will carefully introduce dogs to each other, usually one group at a time. This gives the daycare employees a chance to assess whether or not the dogs will get along before adding more dogs.
Daycare is also a great way for energetic dogs to burn off energy rather than using it in destructive behaviors like chewing and destroying things at home. Weekly or even daily daycare sessions will help keep your dog active physically and mentally.
Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle doesn’t work for dogs and leaves them prone to obesity and mobility issues. Lack of exercise can also lead to boredom and destructive behaviors like chewing and digging.
Your dog will have plenty of opportunities at daycare to run around and play with their friends in a safe environment that a human monitors. They will get daily opportunities to go outside and potty as well. They will also have access to indoor games during colder months, like playing fetch and tug-of-war.
The daycare team will also provide consistent structure and daily routines, such as regular bathroom breaks and feeding times. This can help with digestion and urinary tract health, as well as assist with calorie distribution. This is all part of a holistic approach to care that will ensure your dog feels secure and loved.
Training
Dogs that go to daycare frequently will not be as likely to exhibit destructive behavior, such as chewing up furniture, because they will have an outlet for their energy and a way to stay physically active. Weekly or daily daycare sessions will also keep dogs from becoming bored and anxious while their owners are away for long periods, which can lead to anxiety-related behaviors such as barking excessively.
Reputable daycares will have employees trained in positive reinforcement training techniques, canine body language, ways to de-escalate conflict between dogs, and more. They will also ensure that all dogs attending are up to date on their vaccinations and worming treatments.
Some highly energetic or anxious dogs may find a full day of play at daycare too stimulating, so finding a facility that builds rest or nap time into the schedule is important.
Health Care
Dogs that are left alone for long periods often become bored. This boredom can lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing, tearing up furniture, or urinating in the house. By providing a stimulating environment and supervised interaction with other dogs, doggie daycare helps alleviate this boredom.
Many pet parents have busy schedules that cannot provide their pups with daily exercise. A sedentary lifestyle is unhealthy for dogs and can contribute to weight issues, mobility problems, and destructive behaviors.
Dogs get plenty of physical exercise at a dog care facility through games and roaming around the large outdoor area. Dogs that need to take a break can do so during supervised quiet or nap times. A good daycare also provides mental stimulation through training sessions and games played with the dogs.
Mental Health
Dogs left alone often get bored, leading to destructive behavior like chewing up belongings. They can also develop anxiety-related habits such as urinating in the house or barking excessively. Dog daycare can help alleviate this boredom and anxiety by providing a safe environment for dogs to interact with other healthy, supervised dogs in a controlled setting.
Some dogs live very sedentary lifestyles, sleeping most of the day and only getting out to use the bathroom or for walks. This can lead to weight problems, mobility issues,, and poor digestion.
While it may not be realistic to own a dog if you are living with a mental health issue such as depression or anxiety, having a pet can provide much-needed companionship and affection. It can also occupy the mind, create a routine and give a sense of purpose.