Many winters we see problems with dogs being bored because of being locked up inside. (it's not just a winter problem).  Most dogs are inside the house for usually 12-16 hours a day.  Many of our dog's common behavior problems are caused by boredom. When your dog gets bored, he begins to look for ways to entertain himself.  This sometimes leads to inappropriate chewing, excessive barking or digging.

Here are some tips for busting your dog's boredom, and hopefully putting an end to problem behaviors:

  1. Make sure they are getting plenty of Exercise - I know in winter sometimes this can be hard because of the weather but so if you are not able to get them out for a walk daily, maybe check out having them walk/exercise on a treadmill, many dogs love this (check out youtube).
  2. Have some interesting and challenging toys to play with, sometimes certain toys will appeal to your dog and sometimes they will have no interest in them. One way to keep thing interesting for your dog is to rotate through the toys, allowing a few old and maybe a few new (or rotated) toys out.  By rotating toys you might keep things constantly new and interesting.
  3. Fill toys and bones with tasty treats or food. Now a days there are many boredom buster toys, not just a Kong or hollow bones.  We have a large selection of toys that can be filled with bits of cheese, meats, food, canned food, treats, toppers etc.  Feeding your dog one of their meals or even both can help stimulate their brain and alleviate boredom.
  4. Teach your dog “Find it game”. Once they understand the game, before you go out hide treats around the house (not a ton of treat, even some kibble) for your dog to find. When you leave the house you say “Find it” and they will spend time looking for the items you hid.  If you don’t want to spend the time teaching the “Find it game” there are feeders, bowls and treat that require some problem solving in order for your dog to access their food and make meal time more challenging.
  5. Dogs without stimulation and left alone will get bored. Dogs are thinking creatures with instincts for digging, chasing and socializing.  Dogs deprived of his basic instincts and social needs will create  problems like inappropriate chewing, excessive barking, digging, or just being clingy(anxiety).

Paula Gorman CH, PNC, PRS, Store Manager 

Pet Supplies 'N' More