How to Keep Your Dog from Getting Bored with the Daily Grind
When a person is bored, they can do just about anything to stimulate themselves. They can hop on the phone, browse the internet, turn on a movie, read a book, engage in a hobby and more. What can a dog do when they get bored? Not much unless we help them out. Dogs that are bored often will get depressed. They may engage in destructive or hyperactive behavior such as chewing up the furniture, jumping on people and more. They may even try to run away from home. So, what can you do to prevent doggie boredom? Here are some dog boredom busters that may provide the perfect solution.
Best Dog Boredom Busters Games
There are several games you can play with your pooch to prevent dog boredom. Here are a few that are suggested.
- Hide Treats Around the House: One idea is to hide treats around your house and have your dog find them. Start searching with them so they realize it’s a game.
- Tug of War: Tug of war can be played with old towels or bed sheets. Pull your side while having your dog bite down on the other and see who’s the strongest.
- Fetch: Fetch is an oldie but a goodie. It will give your dog the stimulation they need.
Best Toys to Prevent Boredom in Your Dog
Dog toys can be used to prevent boredom, but some may work better than others. Here are a few that are recommended.
- Interactive Toys: Interactive toys are great because they will give your dog incentive to keep playing. King Wobbler is one of the better ones. It will pop back up after your dog pushes it down providing ongoing excitement.
- Balls: Dogs love chasing around balls. The Jolly Ball is a good choice because it’s more durable than other balls and will hold up better during dog play.
- DIY Toys: There are tons of dog toys you can make at home. For example, you can slit a tennis ball and fill it with kibble. Your dog will spend hours trying to get to their treats.
- Chew Toys: Chew toys are a great way for dogs to relieve boredom, anxiety and frustration. Young dogs use them to reduce teething pain while older dogs can benefit from the toys’ jaw strengthening and teeth cleaning properties. While there are many chew toys available on the market, deer antlers or antler substitutes are an excellent option due to their exceptional durability.
Note, it’s best to keep changing up the toys your dog is playing with, so they don’t get bored of the same ones.
Outings That Relieve Doggie Boredom
An outing is great for relieving doggie boredom. Here are a few ideas for added excitement.
- Change the Blocks You Walk Down: Dogs can get bored with the same routine day after day. If you go to the park often, try taking different routes to keep your pooch entertained.
- Arrange a Play Date for Your Dog: Hanging out with a friend will give your dog much-needed social stimulation.
- Take Them to a Lake or Kiddie Pool: Dogs love the water. Take yours to a lake or fill a kiddie pool and hang out on your porch if there are no bodies of water nearby.
Put Your Dog to Work
If your dog is bored, why not put them to work? They can be taught to clean up, load laundry baskets, carry wood to a woodpile and more. This works to relieve doggie boredom while making the dog feel happier and more confident.
Train Your Dog
Teaching your dog new tricks will stimulate them physically and mentally. You can work on basic commands like lay down, sit, shake and stay. If your dog is already well trained, you can get into more advanced commands like lay down, hide and go seek, sing, kiss and high five.
Agility training and noise work training are good options too. Agility training involves the dog weaving through an obstacle course and stopping for set amounts of time. It’s exhilarating and it promotes bonding between the pet and owner.
Noise work involves using a tool that emits a strong, sharp noise to stop your dog from engaging in unwanted behavior.
How K9U Can Help Relieve Dog Boredom
Let’s face it, not everyone can be home to stimulate their dogs as much as they would like to be stimulated. If you feel like your dog is suffering from boredom, K9U can help. You can take them to our classes and activities which include Daycare, Puppy and Tweenie Time and individual Activities for Dogs.
Dogs that attend our Daycare will have access to thousands of feet of indoor and outdoor play areas. They will get to interact with other dogs. We even provide dog transportation services in support of your busy schedule.
Our Puppy and Tweenie Time is for younger and older puppies. Our puppy classes give dogs 1 to 6 months old a chance to socialize. Our tweenie classes are for 6- to 12-month-old dogs. They let the dogs that bonded in puppy classes stay in touch. And the best news is that the first 3 sessions are free so that you can give it a try. Your pup will love you for it.
Individual Activities for Dogs can also relieve boredom. Dogs get one on one attention from trainers and dog handlers. They can engage in activities like fetching, running on the treadmill, agility training and more.
Doggie boredom is not good for the dog or the people around them. K9U can prevent dog boredom providing a happier, healthier situation for the whole family. Call us to find out how we can help your furry friend achieve a higher quality of life.
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