Tips for Keeping Your Dog Entertained While You’re Away
Updated On: Friday, June 4, 2021 15:47:27 PM America/Los_Angeles
Whether you’re away for an eight hour workday or a family vacation, leaving your dog at home is never easy. A common worry among pet parents is that their fur babies will become bored or even depressed with insufficient mental stimulation.
Leaving your pup home alone can become even more stressful if your dog tends to engage in destructive behavior while you’re gone. Luckily, with a couple of changes and some fun toys, there are ways to keep your dog entertained so that they don’t become bored, depressed, or anxious.
Photo by Per Lööv
How do I keep my dog entertained when I’m not home?
- Toys: One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to keep your dog entertained is to provide interactive dog toys. In addition to an interactive chew toy, make sure your dog has access to other toys that are safe to use without your supervision to add some variety.
- Treats: Interactive toys aren’t the only way to provide treats while you’re gone! Remote controlled treat dispensers, treat dispensers with timers, and scavenger hunts are all great ways to surprise your pup with delightful goodies throughout the day. Bully sticks and jerkies are also a great option if your dog enjoys them, as they’re long lasting.
- Scavenger hunt: A fun way to keep your dog on their toes is to create a scavenger hunt. You can hide various toys and treats around the home so that they can “discover” these goodies throughout the day.
- Sights and sounds: If you’re able to, create a space for your dog to enjoy the view through a window. Comfy bedding in front of a window or glass door can also help encourage them to linger a while so that they can enjoy watching backyard critters and listening to songbirds.
How can I get my dog to entertain herself?
There’s nothing like a yummy treat to encourage your dog to interact with a toy! Use an interactive chew toy with your pup’s treat of choice to keep them preoccupied while you’re away. Some fun options include peanut butter, freeze-dried proteins, and good ol’ fashioned treats. Tip: If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, you can use treats with calming properties to help alleviate their anxiety as well.
Check out our other post for more ideas on products that can help keep your dog entertained while you’re away!
Remember, your dog should always have access to a dog potty whenever you’re away for extended periods of time. An indoor pet potty for dogs like DoggieLawn gives your pup access to real grass, even if you’re unable to take them out.
