Training for Bored Dogs

Signs of Boredom

• Many of the behaviors owners perceive as destructive, disobedient ̵2; or simply neurotic ̵2; are inspired by boredom. Bored and lonely dogs may bark incessantly, dig holes around the yard, become frequent escape artists, raid the trash, defecate or urinate on the floor, or chew on shoes, furniture, clothing ̵2; or even their own paws and fur. Unfortunately, some owners perceive this behavior as revenge; the dog is getting back at them for leaving the animal alone all day. In reality, the dog is not targeting anyone; he is simply acting out of frustration and trying to find some way of entertaining himself.

Exercise

• In today's society, most people ̵2; pet owners included ̵2; work full-time away from home. This leaves the dog alone and bored. If she has excess energy to expend, she may do so in ways you wish to discourage. One solution is to exhaust some of that energy with a vigorous walk before you leave for work. If you prefer not to sweat before working, stand in the backyard and throw the ball for the dog and have her return it to you ̵2; repeatedly. An exhausted dog will be more likely to settle down to a quiet day to await your return ̵2; and possibly another walk ̵2; that evening.

Company

• Dogs are pack animals; lengthy periods of solitude ̵2; even in a large, tree-filled backyard ̵2; do not feel natural to them. Hire a dog walker or have a teenage neighbor play with the dog for a while in your absence. Some kennels also offer pet daycare, where you can drop your pet off in the morning and he can play with other dogs until you pick him up in the afternoon. Once or twice per week at daycare should sufficiently entertain him. Although the measure may seem drastic, consider adopting another dog to serve as a companion to your dog. This provides him with a pack mate even in your absence. Note, however, that adopting another animal comes with all of the responsibilities of adopting the first dog. The second pet may be a welcome addition to your family or he may compound your problems as well as your expenses. Ask a vet for advice and assistance.

Challenge

• Like people, dogs have active minds that thrive on challenge ̵2; especially when victory is rewarded. Modern pet toys often serve as pet puzzles: Figure out how to dislodge the treat. Sometimes the treat is simply wedged inside a hole in the toy; other times the toy randomly dispenses the treat. Instead of treats ̵2; which may promote pet obesity ̵2; use the dog's food or a healthy alternative that you count as part of his dietary intake. Simple games of fetch and tug-of-war provide the challenge of competition and satisfying interaction with you. Also, try hiding a beloved toy or treat somewhere in the house and then asking for it by a name he recognizes. In the beginning, make the hiding place simple. Once he grows familiar with the rules of play, make the hiding place less obvious to provide fresh challenge.

Obedience Training

• Simple reward and punishment may not eliminate a behavior inspired by boredom. However, enrolling in a formal obedience training course may solve the behavior problem by instead addressing its source: boredom. Such classes provide socializing opportunities for your dog. Also, learning new tasks offers the dog a challenge and the "work" he was bred to perform. Most obedience classes also require owners and their pets to practice at home, which offers other opportunities for interaction. Try incorporating his new accomplishments into your old games. During your walks, have your dog respond to commands from his obedience classes, or reward obedience skill milestones not with a treat but with an impromptu game of tug of war or fetch.

Healthy Outlets

• If your dog loves to dig, offer him an acceptable outlet: his own sandbox. Use sand graded safe for small children, locate the sandbox a distance from any fence and bury treats in it to entice him to dig in the sandbox instead of under your rosebushes. Likewise, a dog who loves to chew your shoes may be equally happy to gnaw on a large rawhide or a knot of rope.