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The kids are heading back to school, but what about your dog? Dogs thrive on routine, and adjusting to a new back-to-school schedule can be difficult or frustrating for many.
You can help your pup adjust to the fall season by slowly easing her into the new routine, gradually introducing aspects of the new schedule a few weeks before classes start. That’s not always easy to do—so if you’ve missed the boat, don’t worry! Continue to offer plenty of regular exercise and consider investing in some new distractions, like puzzle and squeaker toys.
We’ve got your pup’s back-to-school shopping needs covered with a roundup of our favorite products to keep her busy, curious, or just plain cute as she waits for the kids to come home.
Back to School Dog Essentials
Ellie Dog Raincoat
Olive the Boston beauty and Rover star models the Ellie Dog Raincoat
It’s a season of change, and this water-resistant slicker offers your dog protection from the elements when the weather turns and you’re out enjoying a kid-free walk.
Available in sizes from XS to XXL, this adjustable, harness-friendly raincoat is also impossibly adorable.
Buy Now on AmazonGrey Dapper Backpack
Ringo the Aussie dog models this spiffy backpack for pups
Let your dog join the back-to-school walk to the bus stop with a spiffy new backpack of his own. With plenty of room for poop bags, snacks, and even a tennis ball, this backpack harness is an easy, stylish way to walk your dog and allows you to stay hands-free, too. Best for dogs from 15 to 40 pounds.
Buy Now on Bark IndustryWaffle Squeaker Toy
Don’t forget: breakfast is the most important meal of the day—especially when your dog has back-to-school blues.
Toss this waffle-printed canvas squeaker toy to your dog when she’s feeling bored or anxious to lift her spirits and start a fun game of fetch.
Buy Now on AmazonPlush Apple Toy
Shirley the senior pug is ready for school
This apple toy is the perfect size for tossing or chewing—and might even make a great pillow for those mid-day naps. (It’s also a great back-to-school gift for dog-loving teachers!)
Buy Now on AmazonSo Phresh Fanny Pack Bag Dispenser
Casual meets hip, meets practical. There’s no denying that fanny packs are back, and this mini poop bag holder is basically as cute as they get. We figure it’s the pup equivalent of a new pencil pouch.
Buy Now on PetcoZippyPaws Burrow Interactive Lunchbox with Apples
Everyone else is packing lunches—let your dog join the back-to-school party with this plush hide-and-seek toy from ZippyPaws. Squeaking apples fit inside burrows in the box to keep your pup entertained while you get everyone out the door.
Buy Now on AmazonLooking for more ways to entertain your dog while the family is away? Consider our favorite puzzle toys or try a fun day at a local doggy daycare.
