Introduction
Have you ever wondered what a typical day looks like for a family waking up early to accommodate their beloved pets? We share our morning routines with our two Beagle companions, Cooper and Jenna, and a St. Bernard named Leo, highlighting the importance of consistent care and attention. Morning routines for dog owners can be both rewarding and fulfilling. This article explores the steps involved in ensuring your furry friends start the day off on the right paw.
Morning Routines with Beagles
For our family's two Beagles, Cooper and Jenna, life in the morning starts early. They are both 8 and 9 years old, and we get up around 7:00 AM each day. One of the first things we do is spend some quality time giving them belly rubs and offering affection. This immediate attention sets a positive tone for the day.
Once the initial cuddles and caresses are wrapped up, they head out into the backyard to relieve themselves. After they return, it's time for breakfast. This meal is crucial as it helps our Beagles start the day feeling energized. Following breakfast, we take them on a walk through the neighborhood, which can last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. Physical activity is key for their health and well-being.
Upon returning from the walk, our Beagles often lie down and sleep for a few hours. This is a crucial period for them to rest and recover. Unlike some dogs, Beagles are known to be quiet sleepers, and this routine allows them to recharge before the rest of the day begins.
St. Bernard Care
Then there's our massive 200-pound St. Bernard, Leo. Unlike the Beagles, Leo is a morning riser, getting up around 7:30-8:00 AM. He spends the entire morning hanging around with me, lying on a couch near my workout equipment. He keeps me company during my workouts, providing a source of comfort and companionship. Watching his big, gentle nature, it's clear that he loves his family deeply.
Lionel (we affectionately call him 'Leo' because of his lion-like qualities) is a giant among dogs, and his presence is both daunting and comforting. He's the biggest St. Bernard I've ever had, and he keeps a watchful eye over our household. His loyalty and gentleness are unparalleled, making him a cherished member of the family.
Establishing a Healthy Routine
The benefits of a well-planned morning routine extend beyond individual comfort and health for our furry friends. Proper care includes ensuring that your pet consumes a diet suitable for their breed, age, and size. Different dogs require different nutritional needs, and it's important to mix dry food with meat and provide some fresh vegetables like carrots, which are dog-friendly. You can also use online resources to find the best food for your pet.
After feeding your dog, it's essential to wait at least 30 minutes before taking them for a walk. This ensures they have time to digest their food, which is crucial for their digestive health. Always carry a doggie bag to clean up after them, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for you and your neighbors.
Remember, positive reinforcement is also key in this routine. Praise your dog for their good behavior and offer them a treat as a reward. This helps to build a strong and positive relationship with your pet.
Human Morning Rituals and Dog Care
While we humans wake up and head to the kitchen for breakfast, our dogs often start snuffling around for their food. Once they have their meal, we quietly leave them to enjoy their food. Our sensitive ears pick up on the sound of running water, followed by the muffled sounds of clothing being put on. Before long, the human of the household heads out the door for their day, leaving our dogs to enjoy some quiet time.
Our Beagles, on the other hand, are a bit more demanding of human attention. After feeding them, Amiga stays in my lap for 45 minutes, allowing me to catch up on personal tasks like grooming and self-care. Once I take her off my lap, I have some time to cook and eat before heading to work.
On my days off, our mornings are much more relaxed, with Amiga and me spending a couple of hours watching TV, cuddling with Hazelnut for a little over an hour. These moments of leisure with our dogs are invaluable and bring a lot of happiness to our lives.
In summary, a morning routine that includes attention, nutrition, exercise, and care for your furry companions is crucial for their overall well-being. By following a consistent and thoughtful routine, you can ensure that your pets start the day feeling happy and healthy. This article has provided a glimpse into what our morning routines with our beloved dogs look like, and hopefully, you can draw inspiration to improve your own routine for the love in your life.