What kind of dog keeps the best time for you? (Comprehensive Guide)

No dog can read a clock, but every dog can learn a routine, so the dog that keeps the best time for you is one that’s trainable and suits your schedule. Smart, eager-to-learn breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds and Poodles pick up daily routines fastest, while laid-back breeds like Bulldogs and Basset Hounds suit people who want a calmer companion.

Dogs “keep time” thanks to their internal body clock, their hunger cycle, and the cues around them, such as your alarm going off, the light changing or you picking up your keys. Keep mealtimes, walks and bedtime consistent and most dogs will soon be nudging you when it’s time for the next one.

Before taking on the responsibility of owning a dog, it’s important to research different breeds and decide which one will suit you and your family best. This article looks at breeds known for adapting well to a routine and gives advice on choosing one for your lifestyle.

Tips on how to choose a dog that will be a good fit

If you’re longing for a four-legged companion who can keep up with your busy routine, look no further! While some breeds might fit better than others, there are several steps to ensure that the pup-searching process is both easy and successful. To find the furry friend of your dreams, consider these straightforward tips:

1The size of the dog

Depending on your household, you may be inclined to choose either a small or large dog. Smaller dogs are easier to manage in an apartment, but many small breeds are still lively and need daily walks. Larger dogs need more space and food, and working breeds in particular need a lot of exercise. Size alone doesn’t decide how well a dog follows a schedule; training and consistency do.

2The younger the more energetic

Puppies are often filled with energy and need frequent potty breaks, attention and training. Conversely, an adult dog is often calmer and may already be house-trained, which takes less of your time. Therefore, the age of the pup you choose will have an impact on how much effort needs to be put in by you!

3Breed of the dog

Certain dog breeds seem to have a knack for keeping time! Among them are Border Collies, Australian Shepherds and other herding dogs, including mixes like the Hanging Tree Dog. These breeds were developed to work closely with people, so they tend to be easier to train than many other dogs, but they also need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.

Make sure to do your research on breeds and find the best one for your lifestyle.

4Consider your own lifestyle and schedule

For those with a hectic daily schedule and limited time, an ideal canine companion is one that doesn’t need hours of exercise every day. Still, every dog needs daily walks, attention and company. Most adult dogs shouldn’t be left alone for more than a few hours at a time without a potty break, so if you work long days, plan for a dog walker, daycare or a midday visit home.

Different Types Of Dogs That Have Been Known To Keep Good Time

From high energetic herding breeds to low maintenance lap dogs, here is a list of certain types of pooches that excel at keeping with the clock:

1High energy: Border Collies

Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence, their ability to stay on task and their remarkable energy levels, making them a go-to breed when it comes to learning routines. They do require plenty of exercise and mental engagement, often more than busy owners expect; however, with the right training and enough activity, these four-legged friends quickly learn your daily schedule. We also look at whether Border Collies like snow.

2High energy: Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds are also quick learners – they were bred to herd livestock and work alongside people, after all. These dogs require plenty of exercise and attention, but with proper training, they readily learn to understand and stick to a schedule.

3High energy: Poodles

Poodles, a beloved breed of canine, are celebrated for their intelligence and extraordinary trainability. Standard Poodles in particular are active, athletic dogs that need daily exercise, while Miniature and Toy Poodles need a bit less. All Poodles thrive on interaction and training, which makes them quick to learn a routine – and you will also find that having a Poodle is incredibly rewarding!

4Low Energy: Basset Hounds

Basset hounds are an ideal pet for those looking for a loyal companion who does not need too much exercise. Their amiable, gentle nature means many are fairly calm at home, although they’re scent hounds with a famously loud bay, and some will howl if they’re bored or lonely. If you're considering one, see how much Basset Hounds shed.

5Low Energy: Bulldogs

Need a loyal and laid-back companion? Bulldogs are the perfect pooches for those who don’t prefer to take their pup on long jaunts. Affectionate and good-natured, these four-legged friends are happy with short walks and plenty of downtime. Because of their flat faces, they overheat easily, so keep exercise gentle and avoid hot parts of the day.

6Low Energy: Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are known for their petite size and fairly easy care. They don’t require hefty amounts of exercise, and many cope fine when left alone for short periods, although they still need daily walks, play and company.

The benefits of having a canine timekeeper

From staying on schedule to becoming a beloved part of the family, having a canine timekeeper offers an array of advantages. Here are some reasons why owning one is worthwhile:

1Help you stay on schedule

If you’re always on the go or your timeline is packed, a canine companion that knows when it’s time for walks and meals adds structure to your day. A dog nudging you at dinnertime or for the evening walk is a surprisingly effective reminder to keep your own routine on track!

2Provide companionship

For companionship and love when you need it most, look no further than a canine companion. Living solo can be a lonely experience, but having an attentive pup by your side and a daily routine to share can help reduce feelings of isolation.

3Keep your family safe

Not only are they cute and loving, but dogs that know the household routine often notice when something is out of the ordinary, such as an unexpected visitor or an unusual noise, and will alert you to it.

The same routine can also be good for you in more mundane ways, like reminding you to take a break from your desk when your dog asks for its afternoon walk.

4Helping you stay active

From frequent walks to games of fetch, having a pup that can keep time is sure to help you stay active. Not only will your canine companion motivate you with their enthusiasm and energy, but they’ll also remind you when it’s time for exercise!

With an athletic dog who knows the schedule well, there won’t be any more excuses for missing out on daily physical activity – just hit the ground running with man’s best friend.

5Providing protection

Many dogs bark to alert you when someone approaches the house, and a dog that knows its home and routine well is quick to notice anything unusual. That sense of having a watchful companion around is a big part of why many people feel safer with a dog at home.

Final thoughts – A furry friend

Deep inside us, we all need a dog. Whether you’re looking for a low-energy companion who won’t require too much exercise or a more active pup to help get you up and moving, having a canine timekeeper by your side is sure to bring many rewards.

Not only will they lighten the load when it comes to keeping track of time, but they will also bring you comfort and joy. So, whether it’s a Basset Hound, Bulldog or Chihuahua – pick the pup that speaks to you and let your furry friend take over from there!