How to Keep Your Dogs Occupied While Away

Keep his mind motivated. Dogs like to have things to do, and there are various toys you can get that will keep him stimulated. Try a brainteaser toy that involves solving a puzzle, like how to get a treat out of the toy. If you have a dog that stays in the yard when you’re away, there’s a terrific summer toy that has you freeze the dog’s toys in a mold, then place the mold on a yard stake so the dog can lick it to reach his favorite plaything.

You can also make homemade puzzle toys. One such favorite involves taking a Kong toy and filling it with the dog's favorite canned dog food. If you don’t serve ger canned food, you can buy a can just for this purpose. Fill the Kong with the food and place it in a cup to prevent spillage. Now freeze the treat and give the frozen toy to your dog before you leave. She will spend quite a bit of time licking the frozen treat to get to the food, leaving your house and yard safe.

Tire your dog out. This is not as barbaric as it seems. Walk your dog for an hour before you leave, if time permits. An exercised dog is less likely to get bored and destroy things. He will have had his fun on the walk, and will most likely rest until you return. Since your should walk your dog each day anyway, this has double the benefits.

Hide toys and treats. Your dog will love searching for her favorite toy or a special treat. If you hide these things around the house or yard before you go, your dog will then have something to do while you are gone.

Use large chew treats. A large chew treat can keep your dog occupied for hours. Rawhide bones can come in very large sizes, but they aren't just for very large dogs. Giving a bone of this size to a smaller dog will keep him busy longer, giving you time away without the threat of coming home to mass destruction.

Turn on your television or radio so your dog has something to listen to. You’d be surprised how much your dog will pay attention to certain noises and sounds.