Stressed? Take a 5-Minute "Dog Recess"

All dog owners know that you have no privacy from your dog. Short of slamming the door in their face, your dog follows you everywhere. Torque, Hope’s French Bulldog, was scrambling as fast as he could go to get into the bathroom every time Hope went. It was unusual behavior. Normally, he’s more casual about it. If he was in the vicinity, he kept her company. But he didn’t race to get there.

Because we always try to figure out why dogs do things, we took a minute and thought. And Hope realized that the last few weeks have been so busy that Torque hasn’t gotten much “mommy and me” time. Following Hope into the bathroom was pretty much the only time he got almost-undivided attention. That changed right away.

Being there

All your dog really wants is you. To be with you and, for a few minutes each day, your focus completely on them. It doesn’t have to be a lot of time. It doesn’t have to involve taking a walk, or training, or even food. The best thing you can give your dog is your attention. 

We know that everyone’s in a time crunch, especially this time of year. But we’re all aware that a little bit of self-care is essential to keep your balance and your health. Spending time with your dog, even just five minutes, can fit right into that category. Studies have shown that spending focused time with your dog improves your physical and mental health. 

Pulled in all directions

When you’re really feeling pressured, it’s time to call a time out. Get your dog and find a room where you can be alone together. It might actually be the bathroom. But give yourself a nice little recess and go pet your dog. Or play with them. Or whatever it is that you and your dog enjoy doing together. 

There will be some days when you can’t find those five minutes. That’s okay. Your dog will certainly forgive you. Your dog shouldn’t be another source of stress. Nobody has to have a dog - you got them for companionship and fun. Try to keep that in mind. Especially when they didn’t scramble fast enough and you hear whining on the other side of the bathroom door.