If you need to leave your dog ‘home alone’ for long periods during the day you may start to see signs of boredom from them. Giveaway clues are shredded carpets and damaged furniture.
There are plenty of things you can do to distract them when you’re not there. Providing entertainment can alleviate separation anxiety and help to pass the time until they see their favourite person again!
Fill a sturdy treat ball with peanut butter, canned dog food, and small biscuits. Use a few different types of food within the ball so that their interest doesn’t wane.
Set up a ‘treasure hunt’ by hiding some plain dog biscuits or dental chews around the house or wherever they’re allowed to roam if you limit access to some rooms. Buy an interactive dog toy that stimulates their brain and sparks interest on and off throughout the day. They’ll have to figure out how to get the small treat from underneath each puzzle.
Rotate your dog’s toys each day so they don’t get bored having constant access to them all.
You could even use small toys as a treasure hunt idea instead of, or as well as, hiding food.
Turn on the TV. Animal Planet which is offered by SKY would be a great choice, but any other channel would be fine provided it’s not showing anything that’s likely to scare your pet e.g. war films.
