A dog acting different after daycare is usually just tired, sore or overstimulated after a day of play, and should be back to normal after a good night's sleep. But if your dog seems scared, withdrawn, injured or unwell, or the changes last more than a day or two, it can point to stress, a bad experience or an illness picked up from other dogs, such as kennel cough. If daycare isn’t the right fit, we compare other options in where to leave your dog when you go to work.
Different dogs will react differently to daycare. Some may come home tired and happy, while others may be a little more subdued. And, just like with kids, there may be the occasional fight or injury.
So, is your dog acting different after daycare? What could be the problem? Or, how can you help make sure they have a good experience? If such questions are circulating in your head, read on to learn more.
Reasons Why Your Dog Could be Acting Different After Daycare
As said earlier, not all dogs have the same reaction to daycare. Some may love it, while others may not be so sure. Here are some of the reasons why your dog may be acting differently after daycare:
1They're Tired
This is probably the most common reason. Just like with kids, dogs can get pretty tired after a day of playing and socializing. If your dog is acting a little low, it’s probably because they’re just tired.
2They Miss You
Another common reason is that your dog misses you. Dogs are very attached to their owners and can get separation anxiety when they’re away from them for too long. After a long day apart, small gestures help you reconnect; we share some in how to say sorry to your dog.
3New Environment, Pets, and People
Of course, another reason why your dog may be acting differently is that they’re in a new environment with new pets and people. Imagine being at a social gathering where you don’t know anyone. It can be pretty overwhelming and scary. The same is true for dogs. They may need some time to adjust to the new surroundings and people.
4Faced Violence or Aggression
Unfortunately, not all daycare centers are created equal. In some cases, dogs may be attacked or abused by other dogs or even the staff. If your dog is acting scared or aggressive after daycare, you could talk to the staff to see what’s going on. It’s also important to be aware of the signs of dog abuse.
You could also try changing daycares to see if that makes a difference.
5Lack of Feeding or Care
Another possibility is that the daycare center is not meeting your dog’s needs. It could be in terms of food, water, or even just attention and care. Dogs are social creatures and need to feel loved and cared for. If they’re not getting that at daycare, it could be why they’re acting differently.
Behavioral Changes after Daycare
Now that you know why your dog may be acting differently after daycare, what are some specific behavioral changes you may notice?
Here are some common ones:
1Hiding or Staying Close to You
If your dog is hiding or staying close to you, it’s probably because they feel scared or anxious. It could be due to the new environment, being around other dogs, or even just being away from you. Newly adopted dogs often show similar signs, which we cover in I just adopted a dog and she seems sad.
2Barking or Howling
Another common behavioral change is excessive barking or howling. Perhaps, your dog is trying to get your attention or feeling frustrated. It could also be a sign of separation anxiety.
3Chewing or Digging
Chewing and digging are also common behavioral changes after daycare. It’s usually because the dog is bored, anxious, or stressed. It’s a way for them to release that energy and frustration.
4Pacing or Restlessness
If your dog is pacing or seems restless, it could be because they’re not getting enough exercise, which is common in daycare centers that don’t have a lot of space for the dogs to run around. Just as often, though, it's the opposite: a dog that has been excited all day can be overstimulated and struggle to settle. A quiet evening and a calm chew can help.
5Eating or Drinking More
Finally, another behavioral change you may see is that your dog is eating or drinking more. Drinking a lot after a busy day of play is normal, and they may not have eaten much at daycare. But keep an eye on their eating and drinking habits, and mention it to your vet if increased thirst continues on days your dog stays home.
When to call your vet
Some changes after daycare are a health issue rather than a behavior one. Dogs that play in groups can pick up kennel cough and other infections, and rough play can lead to injuries. Call your vet if your dog:
- Coughs, honks, sneezes or has nasal discharge
- Is limping or has cuts, punctures or swelling
- Has vomiting or diarrhea
- Is still unusually tired or off their food the next day
Choosing the Right Daycare for your Dog
The right daycare service makes all the difference. You want to ensure that your furry friend is in good hands while you’re away. After all, they’re a part of the family.
Here are some things to look for in a good daycare:
1The Staff
First and foremost, you want to ensure that the staff is qualified and experienced. They should be able to handle all types of dogs, including those with special needs. Ask how many dogs each staff member supervises, how they handle rough play or fights, and whether they'll tell you about any incidents.
If they have an online website, be sure to check out the reviews. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family.
2The Facility
The facility should be clean, spacious, and safe. There should be plenty of room for the dogs to run around and play, and it should also be well-ventilated.
The staff should have a routine that they follow each day, including rest periods, which help keep the dogs calm and relaxed. A good daycare will also ask for proof of vaccinations, assess each dog's temperament before the first day, and group dogs by size and play style.
3The Cost
Of course, you’ll also want to consider the cost of the daycare. Be sure to compare prices and services before making a decision.
Conclusion
Taking your dog to daycare can be a great way to socialize them and give them some exercise. However, it’s important to choose the right daycare center. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your dog has a positive experience.
