How to Keep Your Dog Entertained While at Work
My dog, Max, is my best friend in the whole world. But when I have to leave him home alone while I’m at work, I always feel guilty. I know he gets lonely and bored, and I hate the thought of him sitting in his crate all day with nothing to do.
That’s why I’ve done a lot of research on how to keep dogs entertained while their owners are away.
I’ve read books, articles, and blog posts. I’ve talked to veterinarians, dog trainers, and other dog owners.
And I’ve put all of that information into practice with Max.
As a result, I’ve learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t.
Interactive Toys
One of the best ways to keep your dog entertained while you’re away is to give him interactive toys. These toys are designed to stimulate your dog’s mind and body, and they can be a great way to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Our top 3 favorite interactive toys:
- Kong: Kongs are classic interactive toys that have been around for decades as they are nearly indestructible and can be stuffed with treats, peanut butter, or other goodies.
Your dog will have to work to get the treats out, which can keep them entertained for hours. - Puzzle toys: Puzzle toys are another great option for keeping your dog entertained. These toys require your dog to use their brains to figure out how to get to the treats inside.
There are a variety of different puzzle toys available, so you can find one that’s appropriate for your dog’s age, intelligence, and activity level. - Treat-dispensing toys: Treat-dispensing toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained and rewarded at the same time.
These toys dispense treats when your dog interacts with them, so your dog will be motivated to play with them even when you’re not around.
Exercise
In addition to providing your dog with interactive toys, it’s also important to make sure they’re getting enough exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog is less likely to be bored and destructive. We recommend you take your dog for a walk or run before you leave for work, and if possible, ask a friend or neighbor to take your dog out for a mid-day walk.
If you don’t have time to take your dog for a walk or run every day, there are other ways to give them the exercise they need. You can play fetch in the backyard, or take them to a dog park where they can run and socialize with other dogs.
Companionship
Another great way to keep your dog entertained while you’re away is to get them a companion. This could be another dog, a cat, or even a small animal like a rabbit or a guinea pig. Having a companion will help your dog feel less lonely and bored, and it will also give them someone to play with.
Training
Training is a great way to keep your dog entertained while you’re away, and it also has the added benefit of improving your dog’s behavior. There are a variety of different commands you can teach your dog, such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Teaching your dog these commands will give them something to do while you’re away, and it will also help them learn how to behave in a polite and respectful manner.
FAQ on Keeping Your Dog Entertained
Q: What are some other tips for keeping my dog entertained while I’m away?
A: Besides the tips mentioned above, here are a few other things you can do to keep your dog entertained while you’re away:
- Leave the TV or radio on for your dog to listen to.
- Give your dog a chew toy to keep them occupied.
- Hide treats around the house for your dog to find.
- Set up a playdate with another dog.
- Hire a dog walker or pet sitter to come and play with your dog while you’re away.
Q: How long can I leave my dog alone?
A: The amount of time you can leave your dog alone depends on a number of factors, including their age, breed, and temperament. However, most experts agree that 8 hours is the maximum amount of time you should leave your dog alone. If you need to leave your dog alone for longer than 8 hours, you should make arrangements for someone to come and check on them.
Q: What are the signs that my dog is bored?
A: There are a number of signs that may indicate that your dog is bored, including:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Chewing on furniture or other objects
- Digging in the yard
- Pacing back and forth
- Excessive licking or chewing of their paws
Conclusion
Keeping your dog entertained while you’re away at work doesn’t have to be difficult. By following the tips in this article, you can help your dog stay happy and healthy, even when you’re not around.
I would love to hear your feedback on this article. Please feel free to leave a comment below and let me know what you think.
