Instructions
Make exercise a part of your dog's daily routine. Go on long walks or allow the dog to run and play in an enclosed area outdoors. Dogs that productively use their energy and get the exercise they need are less likely to be bored, and more inclined to rest during down time.
Include your dog in family activities. Dogs are social animals, and enjoy spending time with humans. Allow your pet to be close to you and your family members when at home. Take dogs on car rides and engage in outdoor games like fetch.
Teach a bored dog a new trick. Learning is a great way to keep a dog engaged and occupied. Train new commands in obedience, like "lie down" or "roll over," or participate in agility classes where your dog can test its own limits while socializing with other pets.
Participate in local organized events. There are many clubs all over the nation that provide activities for your you and your dog to engage in together. Also consider volunteering at nursing homes, hospitals or other organizations that welcome animals visiting patients or clients. A dog with a job is less likely to be bored than a dog that sits alone at home all day.
Provide interactive toys for pets to play with. Some alone time is inevitable for almost all doge, but new toys give dogs something to do. Take time to observe your dog's play time to discern which toys would be most entertaining. Rope or squeak toys may amuse some dogs, while others will be kept occupied by puzzle toys with hidden treats. Chew toys are great for puppies, and have the added benefit of keeping teeth healthy.
Use a Kong toy if regular dog toys are not enough to keep your pet occupied. A Kong is a special kind of toy that is hollow in the center, and can be stuffed with tasty treats, like peanut butter or yogurt. To make the toy last longer, freeze it for three to four hours after filling it with the treat. It will take the treat a long time to melt, and can occupy your dog for hours on end.
Consider a companion for your dog. Dogs are pack animals that may become bored when left alone. Of course, adding to your family is a serious decision, and a second dog should not be an option if the second dog will only be used to occupy and entertain the first. Another option is to hire a professional pet sitter to stay with your dog, or leave your dog with a friend for a day or two each week. Dogs will not be bored if they are engaged with attention and affection.
How to Occupy a Bored Dog
It is important for pet owners to keep their dogs from becoming bored. Boredom in dogs may cause serious behavioral problems and can lead an animal to be destructive or anxious. A dog's health could be affected, too, if it becomes stressed or even depressed. Fortunately, there are a number of easy ways to occupy and entertain dogs to prevent boredom. Responsible owners should take the time to figure out ways to connect with and engage their dogs, be it through active play or dynamic toys for the dog to spend time with alone.