How to Keep Your Dog Entertained While You’re At Work
Bored dogs can become destructive. Without an outlet for their energy, they’ll start finding ways to entertain themselves, even if it means getting themselves into trouble.
For example, they might decide to chew a hole through the wall or tear up the couch.
You can tell them to stop if you’re there next to them but what if you’re not at home? What if you’re at work?
Fortunately, there are things you can do. For those who are wondering how to keep your dog entertained, keep reading for some tips.
How to Keep Your Dog Entertained While You’re At Work – 6 Things to Try
1. Hide Some Treats Around the House
Before you leave for work, hide some of their favorite treats (kibble works too) around the house. Make sure they’re somewhere safe so your pup won’t hurt themselves trying to find them.
For example, you can hide them behind their bed or next to the sofa. Just don’t make it too hard – you want to keep them entertained, not make them frustrated.
This will not only keep them engaged but will also tap into their natural foraging instinct, which will keep them mentally sharp. It’ll also give them an opportunity to put their nose work skills into action.
2. Invest In a Pet Camera
A great way to check in on your pup while you’re at work is to use a pet camera. For example, you might catch them scratching themselves or barking at the door.
Nowadays, most of them have two-way audio, meaning you’ll be able to hear them and they’ll be able to hear you. Some examples include the Enabot Pet Camera and Eufy Pet Camera.
Some will even let you dispense treats remotely, which will give your pup something to look forward to. The Furbo Pet Camera is one example.
Others, such as the Petcube, come with a built-in laser that you can use to play with your pet remotely.
That’s actually what we got a few years ago. It’s a bit outdated now and the camera isn’t the clearest but it’s nice being able to interact with our pup even when we’re not home.
3. Provide Them With Interactive Toys
Chew toys are great but they might not be enough to keep your dog entertained while you’re at work. Interactive toys (for small dogs and large dogs) such as treat-dispensing balls or snuffle mats are a much better option.
Instead of chewing mindlessly on a plush toy, they’ll need to use their brain to figure out how to get the treats. They’ll get their treat fix and a chance to work on their cognitive skills – it’s a win-win situation.
This will eventually tire them out, which means they’ll probably curl up for a nap instead of getting into trouble.
Tip: Make sure to rotate their toys every few days. You wouldn’t want to play with the same item over and over and the same thing goes for your pup. Giving them a ‘new’ toy every day will keep them excited and engaged.
4. Hire a Dog Walker
If your pup is friendly, consider hiring a dog walker for those long work days.
Even just a short mid-day walk can make a big difference. Instead of staring longingly at the front door, they’ll be able to go out and interact with other people and dogs.
The new sights, smells, and sounds will keep their minds engaged and help reduce stress. It’s also a great way for them to let out some pent-up energy.
Many dog walkers will also give you updates on their walk so you’ll know how your pet is doing.
5. Give Them a Window View
If your dog likes to watch the world go by, set up a spot for them near a window so they can get a clear view. A dog window perch is a good option. If you’re handy, you can also make them a special dog window seat.
It’ll give them some visual stimulation, which will keep them occupied while you’re away.
Keep in mind, however, that window gazing is not suitable for all dogs.
For example, it might not be the best option if your pet barks excessively or has a high prey drive as it can lead to barrier-aggression and reactivity.
But if your dog just likes to sit and people watch, by all means – let them enjoy the scenery.
6. Enroll Them In Doggy Daycare
Doggy daycare prices aren’t the cheapest but it can give you a peace of mind knowing that your pup isn’t home alone and that they’re safe and being cared for.
While they’re there, they’ll also be able to chase and play with other dogs, which will keep them active. It’s also great for socialization.
By the time you pick them up, they’ll likely be pooped from all the running around.
You just have to make sure your pup is a good candidate for daycare before enrolling them. For example, dogs that are reactive or aggressive toward other dogs or humans may not be a good fit.
It can also be overwhelming for dogs that are fearful or on the anxious side. The same goes for older dogs, especially those with health issues as they may not tolerate the rowdiness of a daycare.
In cases like that, hiring a pet sitter may be a better option.
