During the cooler months of the year, many families have predictable routines. The children return home at the same time each day, walks happen on a consistent schedule, the house seems quieter, and day to day life carries more overall structure. 

As summer approaches and schedules change, those predictable routines we carry through the calmer months of the year suddenly change. School is out, family members come and go at unpredictable times of the day, and every day seems to bring something new. What many owners don’t take into consideration is that all of these sudden changes in routine can be incredibly stressful and challenging for dogs that lack foundational obedience and structure. You may find yourself asking “Why is my dog doing things they’ve never done before?” 

Summertime can reveal behaviors that were previously masked by everyday routines. It’s not that your dog has suddenly forgotten everything they know, but now suddenly they’re being asked to navigate more distractions, more excitement, more people, and less structure. During summer our expectations are raised. We want our pets to accompany us on family trips, evening get togethers, or days in the park. A dog who has only ever walked on an empty neighborhood street, may become overstimulated in a crowded area. A dog who is used to a quiet home, may become overwhelmed when suddenly guests are coming and going. 

A big misunderstanding when it comes to socialization with dogs is believing that exposing them to everything will create a well rounded, well behaved dog. This is not exactly the case. While exposure is important, taking them everywhere with you doesn’t necessarily teach them how to be calm, polite, or engaged with you. Without foundational obedience and proper guidance layered into socialization, flooding your dog with new places, sights, sounds, and people, can actually allow them to develop and rehearse the behaviors you’re trying to avoid. 

Many owners don’t recognize the gaps in training until life becomes more demanding. Training isn’t about taking the enjoyment out of summer for your dog. It is what allows them to enjoy it more. Through structure we open up a door to more freedom. 

Regardless if you’re raising a new puppy, or experiencing difficulties with an older dog, investing into training can transform not only your summers, but every season that follows. Because the goal isn’t just to have a good dog at home, but a dog who is prepared for the real world that you can confidently take anywhere life’s adventures lead you.