We all know that dogs are social creatures who want to be with you every minute of the day. If they’re separated from you for too long and become bored, the result can be destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture and other household items. How can you keep your best friend from getting bored in your absence?
1. Before you leave for work in the morning, take your dog on a long walk. This will give your dog much needed exercise and tire him out so he’s less likely to be bored and destructive. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your dog and get some exercise yourself!
2. Provide your dog with some safe chew toys. A heavy rubber bone is a good choice, but avoid rawhides as a dog can run the risk of choking on pieces of rawhide You don’t want this to happen when you’re not home. You can also buy a firm, hollow bone designed to allow you to add something in the middle. Add a dollop of peanut butter to the interior and watch how excited your dog becomes!
3. Consider leaving the television on during the day. This will give you dog some sound and visual stimulation which can help with boredom.
4. Another alternative to keep your dog relaxed is to play soothing music in the background. There are tapes and CD’s these days designed to reduce stress in dogs. An internet search should yield a variety of choices.
5. Do you have a neighbor who you can trust to check on your dog during the day while you’re at work? A fifteen minute visit by a neighbor who gives a few head rubs can do alot to appease a bored dog.
6. If you don’t have a neighbor to do the job, why not consider hiring a professional dog walker to take your dog for a brief walk during the day while you’re at work? This is becoming a popular option for some working people.
7. Is there an older child in your neighborhood who loves animals? Why not pay the child to come by and play with your dog for 15 minutes during the day. This would be a welcome break for your homebound pet.
8. If you’re in a position to do it, consider the idea of getting a second dog. Often a second dog will provide the stimulation a bored dog needs during the day.
9. Consider fencing in your backyard securely and leaving your dog outside on days when weather permits. Make sure you have a padlock on the gate as well as adequate shelter and water before doing this. Also, make sure you live in a safe neighborhood where no one will bother your dog.
10. When you return from work, spend at least 15 minutes of quality time with your best friend to reward him for being a “good dog” in your absence.
If you do the above and you find your dog is still exhibiting signs of destructive behavior, it may not be simple boredom. He could have doggie separation anxiety. If this is the case, you may want to consult your vet.
