Dog Trainer’s Tips for a Smooth Everyday Routine
As we return from a period of vacation and relaxation, it’s time to get back into everyday routines and find new habits. In this article, dog trainer Lilly Norfeldt shares her tips for making daily life easier (and a bit more fun).
Sign up for a course with your dog
To lift your spirits after realizing everyday life is back, check if there’s an exciting course you can join—either online or somewhere nearby. It’s always a fun thing to do! Even I, who’ve been an instructor for 10 years, love taking courses with my own dog. Last time it was nosework, but basic obedience is always great too—and a good way to meet others with similar challenges. Or potential walking and coffee buddies! Because coffee breaks are an essential part of daily life - can we all agree on that?
Buy a new planner or tidy up your digital one
Back when I was a young student, buying a physical planner after the summer break was a sacred ritual. I’d decorate it with stickers and buy a nice pen to write down all the important dates. It always felt so cozy!
These days, my calendar is digital—but that doesn’t mean it can’t still feel nice. Light a candle! Make a cup of tea! And first of all, add all the fun things: birthdays! Cinnamon Bun Day! The dates of that course you just signed up for with your dog!
This is also a golden opportunity to message people you want to see and schedule some plans. Then you’ve got things to look forward to!
Book a grooming appointment
This tip may come more from my human side—but if your dog goes to the groomer, now’s the time to book it! For mine, who needs minimal coat care, I use this time to do a check-up: coat, nails, ears, and teeth. Knowing what’s normal for your dog is the best way to notice when something isn’t. Even if you usually stay on top of things, fall is a great time—after the summer break—for a more thorough check-up.
But don’t forget to book a haircut for yourself too! It's always a nice treat.
Set one goal for autumn—not a hundred
Autumn feelings are a double-edged sword. On one hand, I get a little down when summer starts to fade and the days turn gray and muddy. On the other hand—I get so hyped! Maybe it’s the cooler weather, but suddenly I’ve got energy again. I start 400 projects in every area of life.
Not sustainable. That’s why I have a rule: only one dog-related goal for the season. Ideally, it ties in with the course you picked earlier. Learning nosework is a great goal. Or finally tackling leash training. Or whatever you and your dog need to improve on! But don't do everything at once. Pick one project.
