Things for Dogs to Do During the Day

The more you have to do from the time you leave the house in the morning to the time you return at night, the longer you leave Fido alone. Being alone in a normally busy household can create separation anxiety, boredom, behavior disorders and depression. Use your dog's time alone as an opportunity to teach good chewing behaviors, thus preventing a snowball effect that can lead to a sick dog or a large furniture repair bill.

  1. Kenneling Activities

    • Kenneled dogs can learn good chewing behaviors during the day. Non-destructible, pet-safe toys filled with kibble or treats keep teeth clean and the mind active. Lack of stimulation causes depression, but pet-enhancing videos break the silence, hold a dog̵7;s attention and relieve separation anxiety that comes with a quiet house. Licensed and bonded dog walkers offer an opportunity for activity for your pet if you are boarding or kennel-training it.

    Indoor Activities

    • Dogs that roam free in the house or apartment get bored with the same scenery. Changing the sound of the environment and placing a few toys in the path of the dog's regular walking path rewards it for patrolling the house. Turn on the radio to break the silence, and introduce new chew-safe toys during extended hours to maximize unsupervised playtime. Set a timed feeder to go off during the day just to deliver treats or offer a toy stuffed with treats to prolong activity time.

    Outdoor Activities

    • For dogs that spend the day outside, plan activities that stimulates a dog's natural behaviors. If you have an active dog that likes to patrol, hide synthetic, weather-appropriate toys filled with a treat or favorite kibble along its route. This encourages natural foraging and patrolling behaviors that also reduce anxiety and burn calories. For dogs that love to dig, hide treats or new synthetic pet-safe chew toys in an old raised flowerbed. This is an excellent place to dig and get away from the heat.

    Considerations

    • Dogs of all ages need exercise, appropriate mental stimulation and healthy treats. Dog daycare can break the routine of waiting for you to come home. Schedule time for your pet at a doggy daycare one day when you know you have to work late. This can help socialize depressed dogs as well as encourage lethargic dogs to become more active.