Activities for Bored Dogs

Doggy boredom results in destructive habits, like chewing, and behavioral problems, such as barking. Boredom also increases health problems for dogs that become depressed and lethargic because of boredom. Moreover, dogs get bored for different reasons so having an arsenal of activities can prevent many unwanted situations. Knowing why your dog is bored is key to finding what activities are most successful at preventing boredom.

  1. Interactive Activities

    • Interactive activities are perfect when walking your dog because they are done during the time you are already spending with your dog. Instead of doing the mundane walking routine, add activities to the walk that releases your dog̵7;s energy. Long leashes teach basic social commands, such as fetch, stay and heel. During house time, keep treats in your pocket and teach basic commands, such as come and stay as you move room to room.

    Alone-Time Activities

    • The most common time dogs suffer boredom is when they are alone, which usually ends up a disaster. Soft toys and rawhide bones are not recommended when the dog is unsupervised. However, boredom chewing, digging and barking can be redirected to dog-safe indestructible toys filled with treats, kibble, cheese or peanut butter. There are several shapes and textures available at most pet supply stores with many claiming that even the most chew-prone dog cannot destroy.

    Yard Activities

    • Yard activities can keep a bored dog entertained and happy while you are away or busy with your own yard work. Fore energetic breeds, such as retrievers, filling a hard plastic baby pool with a few inches of water can keep lake-lovers occupied for a few hours. When the weather is not so warm, replace the water with clean, organic soil to act as a digging and lounging spot. You can also hide treats or weather-appropriate toys in the soil to encourage good digging behavior.

    Considerations

    • Take into consideration your dog's likes and dislikes; buy textures and shapes it finds appealing to encourage good chewing habits. If feeding time is the only time you have to interact with your pet, make the most of it by feeding one kibble at a time in exchange for some basic command training activities, such as sit, stay and down. Dogs that get exercise through training are more relaxed and less bored.