Leaving your dog at home while you head to work can be challenging for both of you. Boredom, loneliness, and pent-up energy can lead to unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or digging. But with a little creativity and planning, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy, entertained, and mentally stimulated while you’re away. Here are some practical tips to keep your dog entertained and engaged during your workday.
Rotate Their Toys
Just like kids, dogs can get bored with the same toys day after day. To keep things fresh, try rotating their toys weekly. Offer a mix of chew toys, squeaky toys, and plushies, so your dog has a variety of options to play with. Puzzle toys, in particular, can provide mental stimulation and keep your dog engaged for longer periods.
Use Puzzle Feeders
Speaking of puzzles, food-dispensing toys like Kongs, treat balls, or snuffle mats are excellent for keeping your dog entertained while also providing mental enrichment. Fill a Kong with peanut butter, canned dog food, or yogurt, and freeze it overnight. Your dog will spend hours working to get the tasty treat out, satisfying their natural instinct to forage.
Create a Doggy TV Experience
Many dogs enjoy watching the world go by. Set up a cozy spot near a window where your dog can observe birds, squirrels, or passersby. For dogs who love screens, you can even leave the TV on a pet-friendly channel, like one designed for dogs. These programs often feature calming music and footage of other animals, which can be soothing and engaging for your pup.
Provide Interactive Toys
Interactive toys can help prevent boredom and give your dog a sense of purpose. For example, toys with hidden compartments for treats or ones that require problem-solving skills can keep your dog’s mind active. Try toys like a doggy puzzle board or a wobble treat dispenser to challenge them mentally.
Hire a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
If your schedule allows, hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to visit your home midday can be a game-changer. Not only will your dog get a bathroom break, but they’ll also enjoy some much-needed social interaction and exercise. Regular walks can help reduce anxiety and ensure your dog is calmer for the rest of the day.
Sign Up for Doggy Daycare
For dogs who thrive on socialization, a doggy daycare can be an excellent option. These facilities provide supervised playtime with other dogs, which is perfect for high-energy or social breeds. Plus, they’ll come home happy and tired from all the excitement.
Try Scent Games
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, and scent games are a fun way to engage their natural sniffing instincts. Hide treats around the house and encourage your dog to “hunt” for them. Start with easy hiding spots and gradually make it more challenging as they get better at the game.
Leave a Comforting Scent
If your dog has separation anxiety, leaving behind something with your scent can help comfort them while you’re gone. A worn T-shirt, blanket, or towel with your smell can provide reassurance and make them feel less lonely.
Build a Safe Space
Create a designated area in your home where your dog feels secure and comfortable. This could be a crate, a specific room, or a cozy corner with their bed, toys, and water. Dogs are den animals by nature, so having a safe, familiar space can help them relax.
Use Technology
Modern technology offers plenty of solutions for keeping your dog entertained. Pet cameras with treat dispensers let you check in on your dog and reward them remotely. Some cameras even include interactive features like two-way audio and laser pointers for extra playtime.
Tire Them Out Before You Leave
A tired dog is a happy dog. Take your pup for a brisk walk or engage in a game of fetch before you head to work. Burning off some energy in the morning can make them more likely to nap and stay calm during the day. Please Note: This content was created with the assistance of AI and thoroughly edited by a human before publishing.
