Is your dog bored? Man's best friend was originally bred to work alongside his "master." However, today's pampered pooch doesn't have to work for anything. We as good pet parents provide our pets with food, toys, beds, and backyards. But as good as that makes us feel, our canine companions can still get mentally and physically bored.
If you think your dog is bored, we've dug up 10 simple ways to relieve dog boredom. Just wait until you see number eight. It's too cool!
A Bored Dog Can Lead to Problems
Before we get to our 10 simple ways to relieve dog boredom, let's take a look at why you need to keep your pooch both mentally and physically stimulated.
Bored dogs tend to get destructive. This can include constant barking, the digging of holes and excessive chewing. When you keep your pooch physically and mentally active you can avoid these annoying and potentially harmful behaviors.
Another reason we want to keep our dogs active is to prevent excessive weight gains. Overweight pets are more prone to diabetes, liver function problems, breathing issues, decreased tolerance to heat, lowered immunity, high blood pressure, and even lameness.
10 Simple Ways to Relieve Dog Boredom
Now that we know why it's important to keep our dogs active, here are 10 simple ways to relieve dog boredom.
Frisbee Play
These dog-friendly flying discs bring playtime to a whole new outdoor adventure. Find a park, a large field or use your own backyard to let the fun "fly." Whether your dog is big, small or in between, a "Frisbee" will get your pup up and movin.'
Figure Out Those Puzzle Toys
There is a large variety of puzzle toys for dogs on the market today. However, these aren't your ordinary squeakers. The puzzle toy usually includes a hole or other openings to place your dog's favorite treats in. Once the toy is "loaded" your dog will have to use his sense of smell and smarts to get to his reward. These are perfect for pooches that are left alone during the day or for longer periods-of-time.
Go to the Dog Park, Have a Play Date
Every city usually has a park designated just for people with canines. These dog-friendly areas are a great place to run some steam off your pooch. Don't have a dog park near you? No worries, just schedule a play date with friend's, family or co-workers whose dog gets along with yours. These can take place at a beach, hiking trails or even someone's backyard.
Take a Dog-Friendly Day Trip
Have you ever seen a dog traveling in a vehicle with his head stuck out the window that didn't look happy? The new sites, sounds and smells gained from this common practice are all very exciting to your dog. Plus, once you get to your designation, whether that be a beach, new park or even a dog-friendly restaurant, your pup will have enjoyed both the mental and physical stimulation from the journey.
Try Some Obedience or Trick Training
Don't let your dog be the one that annoys everyone with his disobedience. Take some time to teach your dog the basics like sit, stay, down and come. Once your dog has these mastered you can move onto some cool tricks. This boredom-buster is not only good for your dog's brain, but a well-mannered canine is a pleasure to be around.
Work on that Nose Work
Hiding treats around your house and letting your pooch sniff them out is a great rainy day or anytime play session. To get your dog started, put his favorite treats in your clenched hand and let him guess which one it's in.
Play With Some Jolly Balls
Have you heard of the newest dog-craze, the Jolly Ball? Unlike a plain tennis ball that your dog can mouth, the Jolly Ball is made much larger so your pet can jump, roll or tumble around with it. These balls are also made to be super-durable and can take beatin' so give it a good kick and let your pooch dash after it.
Use a Dog Treats Tossing Camera
We promised you number eight was going to be cool and here it is. The dog treats tossing camera. This marvel of technology actually allows you to watch your dog (and your home) in real time from any location with an internet connection. Plus, with the treat dispensing feature you can reward your pooch and even say hello while you're doing it.
Give Em' a DIY Frozen Dog Treat
Perfect for a hot summer day or when you plan on being out for a bit, the DIY frozen dog treats are simple and "cool." These can be easy as freezing some low-sodium chicken broth in ice cube trays. For an extra kick, place a chewy dog treat in the center. Your dog will love the challenge and the end reward.
Use Safe Chews
Using safe rawhides or chew toys are the perfect way for your dog to "gnaw" off some time and energy. Want to add a bit more fun? Stuff a Kong with peanut butter or small frozen treats to keep him really entertained.
An Active Dog is a Happy Dog
Don't let your pooch become so bored that he becomes destructive or overweight. Try one, some or all of these 10 simple ways to relieve dog boredom. Afterall, an active dog is a happy dog.
