How to stop your dog from getting bored and restless at home
[UPDATED DECEMBER 2023]
Our furry friends aren't just pets; they're family members who crave mental stimulation and emotional connection just as much as we do.
But, when life gets busy, it can be easy to miss the subtle signs of a bored dog. From incessant pawing for attention to that all-too-familiar whine, your dog may be trying to tell you something important.
In this blog, we call out the signs that may signal your dog's plea for engagement. And we share some fun ideas to help you turn your pooch’s day from dull to delightful.
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Signs your pooch may be feeling restless
Being naughty
Has your dog tipped the bin upside down to see if you’ve left anything tasty in there? Are you finding your socks in unusual places? If your dog’s acting up, it could be because they’re looking for a distraction.
Digging
If your dog is digging its way down to Australia in your back garden, the chances are it’s looking for something to do. They might just be following their natural instincts, but that’s no help to you if your borders are full of craters and your freshly planted bulbs are scattered free-style across the lawn.
Seeking attention
Could that insistent paw on your knee be a sign of pawdom? More than likely. If your dog is following you around, nudging you with their nose or jumping on your lap, then jumping off again, they’re probably fed up. They want your attention and won’t stop until they get it.
Barking
If your dog is bored and under-stimulated, they may well resort to barking – partly to get your attention and partly to pass the time. Dogs are social animals and want to spend time with you. That “Woof!” may well translate as: “Why can’t we do something fun together?”
Chewing
Everyone knows that a table leg is an indoor stick in disguise. Slippers are dog toys that always come in a pack of two and cushions are great fun when you rip them apart. But, boredom could be to blame if your dog is chewing on the furniture when they’re no longer a puppy.
How to keep your dog happy and active
Switch up your walks
For your pup, it doesn’t get much better than this. They’re outdoors with you, meeting their canine pals, chasing down fascinating scents and – if they’re lucky – a ball too.
A walk is the number one way to perk up your dog’s mood and finding new and interesting routes is the cherry on the cake.
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Set up an agility course
An agility course is a great way to capture your dog’s attention. As they’re working out how to move in and around the various obstacles, their brain cells are fired up, which keeps them curious about the next task.
If you have a garden, you can make your own outdoor agility course using cones, tunnels and jumps, or maybe you’d prefer to join an organised group.
Have a tug-of-war
Divert your dog from chewing the furniture by engaging them in a tug-of-war game. It will help your dog to use up excess energy and can also help the two of you to bond. It’s a good idea to make sure your dog will obey a ‘Drop it’ command before you start so you stay in control.
Use a specially made rubber dog toy to keep your hand safe from your dog’s mouth and give yourself enough room to play together without bumping into anything. And, of course, let your dog win. That will help build their confidence and confirm that you are, in fact, the best human they know.
Play indoor games
‘Find the treat’ – get your dog to put their superior sniffing ability into action by hiding a treat and asking them to find it. Start by putting the treat somewhere easy to find, then progress to more difficult hiding places.
‘Put your toys away’ – encourage your pup to put their toys away. Begin with something easy – a toy near the box where they’re usually stored. Use the ‘drop it’ command so your dog learns where to put their toys away. Then, reward them with a treat.
Work on obedience training – if your dog is a bit shaky on some of the basic commands, this is a great time to work on them together. Your dog should obey the following commands: sit, stay, down, drop it and come here. You’ll help your dog stay mentally stimulated by brushing up on these commands.
Chase bubbles – this is a fun game for you, your dog and the rest of your family. And if you’re on Instagram, the pictures will be irresistible. Get a dog-friendly bubble blower and treat your pooch to dog-friendly peanut butter flavour bubbles. Guaranteed to chase the doggie blues away.
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