5 Ways to Prevent Dog Boredom

Dogs are social creatures and can easily turn into bored. The boredom prompts dogs to find some interesting things to do. Many owners work all the day, leaving dogs home alone. Some dogs may nap during the absence of their owners, arising lazily with a yawn and stretch upon the return of their owner. While some other dogs may suffer extreme boredom and stress during their owners’ absence. This boredom can result in many behavior problems such as:

• Excessive barking
• Excessive licking
• Inappropriate chewing
• Digging
• Getting into things he shouldn’t

In this article I will share with you some effective ways that will help to ensure that your canine companion never becomes bored.

1.Give him Interesting Toys

Giving your canine companion some interesting toys is good way to keep boredom at bay. You can try out different toys to see which ones appeal to your pooch most. Most dog trainers recommend dog toys that are funny as well as offer dogs a mental challenge. There are a number of treat or food dispensing toys that fit the bill. For those dogs who like to chew, dog bones may keep them entertained for some time. Just be careful about the bones, these have been linked to some health problems, including tooth fractures, intestinal blockages and stomach irritation. You should talk to your vet about the safest bones for your canine companion.

If your dog is bored and being destructive, chances that he is looking for a way to burn off his extra energy. Burning extra energy with exercise is always a good idea. There are various ways to add exercise to the daily routine of your dog. Exercise can be as simple as a walk around your neighborhood or a game of fetch in the backyard. Pit bulls, Border Collies and other high energy dogs may do well with jogging or getting involved in some dog sports, such as agility.

3.Train Your Dog

Dog training gives brain a workout and alleviates the boredom. You can add a few short training sessions to the daily routine of your dog. 10-minute sessions for 2 to 3 times are good for your dog. Clicker training or some other positive reinforcement training is a good way to keep things funny and rewarding for your canine companion.

4.Plan a Dog Play Date

Playing with other dogs or pets is a good way to give your pooch exercise and relieve boredom. You can see if any of the neighborhood dog owners want to plan play dates for your pooch, or you can find out if you have any dog park near to your home. Dogs benefit greatly from playing with other dogs. Make sure that your dog and the other dogs he plays with have proper vaccinations.

5.Take a Dog Training Class

Training classes give both mental and physical health to your dog. If you have not checked out any training facilities, you may be surprised by all the different training classes they offer. There are training classes of puppy manners, basic and advanced obedience, pet therapy, dog sports and breed handling and more.