How Can I Tire My Puppy Out After Work?

If your puppy spends his day home alone while you are at work, he probably passes the time sleeping, leaving him fully charged and ready for action when you arrive home. That's the perfect opportunity to play, bond and train your new friend. An alert, frisky puppy is eager to have fun and please you. Plan to spend quality time with your canine companion each evening after work, and you'll soon have a devoted companion.

  1. Outdoors

    • Puppies need fresh air just as humans do. Take your puppy outside for a vigorous play session. Some pups are happy just racing around the backyard. If you don't have a yard, go for a walk. Pace yourself according to your dog's size and age. The tiniest or youngest puppies might be content with a stroll to the end of the block. Bigger or older pups can go further. If your puppy has all his vaccinations, take him to a local dog park. He'll make canine friends, enjoy sniffing and investigating and tire himself out with frisky play.

    Puppy Classes

    • Most large pet store chains offer a variety of canine classes. For younger pups, a socialization class is a chance to have fun and learn to get along with other dogs. Older puppies are ready for obedience classes. Your dog will learn to sit, stay, come, heel and lie down on command. Practice each evening after work when your puppy is alert and eager to be with you. Puppies have very short attention spans, so training sessions should be short but frequent. Praise your dog enthusiastically as he learns to obey your commands.

    Games

    • Like most youngsters, puppies like games. Not all dogs like fetch, but if your puppy does, get out the tennis ball and keep it in action until your puppy has had enough. Tug-of-war is another favorite of many puppies. Halt the game if your puppy shows signs of aggression, however. Many puppies enjoy a game of chase. Circle the backyard or even the living room if you don't have an outdoor play area. Take turns chasing your puppy and letting him chase you.

    Toys

    • Puppies love toys, and if not provided with safe dog toys of their own, they are likely to select your shoes, books, furniture or children's toys for entertainment. Once you've taken your puppy outside so he can relieve himself, fed him dinner and engaged in some active play, encourage your pup to entertain himself with his toys while you make dinner or relax. Give him an assortment of dog-safe toys that are appropriate for his size and age. Many puppies like hard rubber textured toys that relieve the pain of teething gums. Plush toys, balls, squeaky soft rubber toys and strong ropes are other good choices for an active pup.