In our last post, we explored the signs that your dog is bored and they include barking, mischievous behavior, escaping, chewing, and over-the-top greetings — read the full article here. If this sounds like your dog, they are probably bored and just need more stimulation. Even if you walk them twice a day, in the hours you are absent, they may need tasks to complete to keep them from acting out.
At The Vet Set, we are experienced with all types of dog behavior and are here to be a resource — whether it is giving them their first round of vaccinations, addressing behavior concerns, or treating skin irritations, we are here to support you and your furry best friend. Learn more about helpful ways you can keep your dog engaged when you are away.
Four Ways To Keep Your Dog Engaged
If your dog is displaying some poor behaviors linked to being bored, the goal is not to get upset and crate them after-the-fact; the solution is to channel their energy into something more productive.
Keep things fresh and new.
Just like people, dogs are bored with monotony — when you give them the variety they’ll likely stay more engaged. If they have a bucket full of toys, remove the bucket and put it in a closet or somewhere they cannot access, and get out two to five toys out for the day. The next day, switch out the toys from day one with new ones — the goal is to cycle through their toys and give them different options each day.
Another consideration is to invest in toys that are interactive for your dog. This may be a frozen kong stuffed with peanut butter and cottage cheese that requires them to work to get their treat. There are also puzzle-type toys that dispense treats that provide both physical and mental stimulation for your dog.
Set up a scavenger hunt for your dog. Put them in a room before you leave and hide little treats around the house for them to find — these hunts are interactive and keep them physically and mentally stimulated!
Consider a doggie daycare.
If your dog needs the extra socialization and stimulation where they thrive in a dog park, a doggie daycare may be an excellent remedy. A doggie daycare doesn’t have to be somewhere they go every day, but perhaps as a fun treat on Fridays or a couple of days throughout the week. This way they get plenty of interaction and playtime without disrupting or destroying your home!
Leave on background noise.
Whether you leave on the TV or the radio, background music can prove to be advantageous for those pups who are bored. Not only does it drown outside noises, it gives them the sense and security that someone is home.
Visits from friends.
Do you have a neighbor or friend in the area that could stop by during the day for a quick visit? A dog who is bored would love the company and appreciate any activity they could provide.
Even if you have a city dog that is housebound all day, there are many solutions to keep them from getting bored!