Leaving your dog home alone can be challenging, especially if they become anxious or bored. Dogs that don’t have enough mental and physical stimulation may develop destructive behaviors like chewing furniture, barking excessively, or digging. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog entertained while you’re away.
In this guide, we’ll explore different strategies, toys, and activities to ensure your furry friend stays happy and engaged even when home alone.
Why Keeping Your Dog Entertained Is Important
A bored dog is more likely to:
❌ Develop separation anxiety.
❌ Engage in destructive behaviors (chewing, barking, digging).
❌ Become depressed or restless.
By providing stimulation, you can:
✔ Keep their mind and body active.
✔ Reduce anxiety and stress.
✔ Prevent unwanted behaviors.
Now, let’s explore the best ways to keep your dog entertained while you’re out.
1. Provide Interactive Toys
Interactive toys keep your dog busy by encouraging problem-solving and play.
Best Interactive Toys:
- Puzzle Feeders (e.g., KONG, Outward Hound Puzzle Games): Dispenses treats when your dog figures out how to unlock them.
- Snuffle Mats: Encourages natural foraging instincts by hiding treats in fabric layers.
- Treat-Dispensing Balls: Releases food when rolled around, keeping your dog engaged.
Benefits:
✔ Provides mental stimulation.
✔ Slows down fast eaters.
✔ Keeps dogs entertained for long periods.
2. Leave a Safe Chew Toy
Dogs love to chew, and providing safe chew toys can prevent them from chewing on furniture or shoes.
Best Chew Toys:
- Rubber Chew Toys (e.g., KONG, Nylabone): Durable and long-lasting.
- Bully Sticks or Dental Chews: Healthy alternatives that also clean teeth.
Tip: Freeze a stuffed KONG with peanut butter or yogurt to make it last even longer.
3. Play Calming Music or TV
Background noise can help reduce anxiety, especially for dogs with separation issues.
What Works Best:
- Classical music or soft instrumental sounds (reduces stress).
- Dog-friendly TV shows (some dogs enjoy visuals of other animals).
- White noise machines (helps block out sudden loud noises).
4. Set Up a Viewpoint
Dogs love watching the world outside, so giving them access to a window can be an excellent distraction.
How to Set It Up:
- Place a dog bed near a window with a good outdoor view.
- Open the blinds or curtains so they can observe squirrels, people, or cars.
- If barking at passersby is an issue, consider using frosted window film to reduce visibility.
5. Use Automatic Treat Dispensers
Technology can be a great way to interact with your dog when you’re away.
Best Automatic Gadgets:
- Furbo Dog Camera: Lets you talk to your dog and dispense treats remotely.
- Pawbo Interactive Camera: Allows video calls and has laser games.
- PetSafe Smart Feeder: Dispenses meals on a schedule.
Benefits:
✔ Helps anxious dogs feel connected to their owners.
✔ Reinforces positive behavior with treats.
✔ Provides scheduled feeding for better routine management.
6. Rotate Toys to Keep Things Fresh
Dogs can lose interest in toys if they see them every day.
How to Keep Them Excited:
- Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty.
- Introduce new scents or textures to keep them curious.
- Hide some toys and let your dog “discover” them later.
7. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space
Making your dog feel secure while alone is crucial for reducing stress.
How to Do It:
- Use a crate or playpen if your dog feels comfortable in enclosed spaces.
- Provide a cozy dog bed or blankets for comfort.
- Leave an item with your scent (like an old shirt) to reassure them.
8. Hire a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
If your dog struggles with long periods alone, hiring a professional can help.
Options:
- Dog Walker: A midday walk helps break up long hours alone.
- Pet Sitter: A trusted person can visit for playtime and companionship.
- Dog Daycare: A great option for highly social dogs.
9. Tire Your Dog Out Before You Leave
A tired dog is less likely to be restless while home alone.
Pre-Departure Routine:
- Morning Walk: A 30-minute walk helps burn energy.
- Playtime: Games like fetch or tug-of-war engage their mind.
- Training Session: Practicing commands keeps them mentally active.
10. Teach Your Dog to Be Independent
If your dog struggles with being alone, training them to feel comfortable by themselves is essential.
How to Do It:
- Start with short absences. Leave for a few minutes, then gradually increase the time.
- Use a consistent goodbye phrase like “I’ll be back” to reassure them.
- Don’t make departures dramatic. Keep them low-key to reduce anxiety.
- Reward calm behavior when you return. Avoid rewarding over-excitement.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Leaving Without Providing Entertainment
❌ Mistake: Expecting your dog to stay calm with nothing to do.
✅ Solution: Provide interactive toys, chews, or music.
2. Punishing Your Dog for Being Destructive
❌ Mistake: Scolding them after returning home for chewing or barking.
✅ Solution: Prevent the behavior with proper stimulation instead of punishment.
3. Not Exercising Your Dog Before Leaving
❌ Mistake: Leaving an energetic dog alone without activity.
✅ Solution: Give them exercise and mental stimulation before you go.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog struggles with extreme separation anxiety despite trying these methods, consult a:
- Certified Dog Trainer (for behavior modification).
- Veterinarian (if anxiety is severe and may require medication).
- Canine Behaviorist (for specialized anxiety training).
Conclusion
Keeping your dog entertained while home alone prevents boredom, stress, and destructive behaviors. By using interactive toys, exercise, music, and comfort strategies, you can create a safe and engaging environment for your furry friend.
With a little planning, your dog can enjoy their alone time without feeling anxious or restless. Try different methods and find what works best for your pup!