Author: Evie Van Hove

My dog is bored: what can you do?
 

Do you feel that your dog is bored? Perhaps you notice that he is restlessly walking around, exhibiting unwanted behaviour, or even seems to be mourning. Boredom in dogs can lead to all sorts of problems, but fortunately, there are plenty of ways to make their lives interesting and fun again. In this blog, we dive deeper into the causes of boredom in dogs and give practical tips on how to prevent it.
 

1. Why does your dog get bored?
 

Dogs are active and intelligent animals that, like us, need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. There could be several reasons why your dog is bored:

• Lack of exercise: Dogs need sufficient daily exercise. If your dog does not get enough exercise, he may build up energy that leads to restlessness and boredom.
• Lack of mental stimulation: Besides physical exercise, dogs also need mental challenges. Without something to think about or engage with, they can quickly become bored.
• Routine: If your dog has the same routine every day, he may get bored due to the lack of variety. Dogs love to explore and experience new things.
• Attention deficit: Dogs are social animals and need interaction with their humans. If they feel ignored, they may become bored and possibly engage in destructive behaviour.

2. Signs that your dog is bored
 

Recognising boredom in your dog is the first step to addressing the problem. Some common signs of boredom include:

• Excessive barking or whining: This may be a way for your dog to get attention or express his frustration.
• Destructive behaviour: Chewing on furniture, shoes, or other objects can be a way of getting rid of energy or entertaining himself.
• Restlessness: If your dog is constantly running around, unable to relax, or struggling to find a place to lie down, this could be a sign of boredom.
• Unwanted behaviour: Digging in the garden, jumping up against people, or even pulling at furniture can all be expressions of boredom.
   

3. How can you prevent boredom?
 

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent boredom in your dog. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Get plenty of exercise

Regular exercise is essential to keep your dog healthy and happy. Depending on your dog's breed and age, he may need one to two hours of exercise a day. This can include walks, running in a park, or playing in the backyard.

• Walks: Change the route regularly to introduce new smells and environments.
• Play: Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek can be physically challenging and mentally stimulating.

2. Offer mental stimulation

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Here are some ideas to keep your dog's mind active:

• Puzzle toys: There are many interactive toys available that challenge your dog to find a reward, such as food puzzles.
• Tricks and training: Teach your dog new tricks or commands. This will keep his mind sharp and strengthen your bond.
• Sniffing mats: A sniffing mat is a great way to keep your dog occupied. Hide small treats in the mat and let your dog look for them.

3. Vary the daily routine

Try adding variety to your dog's daily routine. You can do this simply by taking new walking routes, introducing new toys, or playing different games. You can also occasionally visit a new place, such as a forest or a beach, to surprise your dog with new smells and experiences.

4. Schedule play sessions with other dogs

Social interaction is an important source of pleasure for many dogs. If your dog gets along well with other dogs, schedule regular play sessions or visit a dog park. This gives your dog a chance to run, play and interact with other dogs, which helps prevent boredom.

5. Spend quality time together

Make sure you set aside time every day to really engage with your dog. This can be something as simple as cuddling together, playing a game, or just sitting next to each other while watching television. Your dog will enjoy the attention and it helps him feel loved and involved.
 

4. When is it time for professional help?
 

If, despite your best efforts, you find that your dog is still showing signs of boredom, such as constant destructive behaviour or extreme restlessness, it may be wise to seek professional help. A dog behaviourist can help you identify underlying problems and develop a tailored plan to improve your dog's behaviour.
 

Conclusion
 

Boredom in dogs is a common problem, but fortunately there are many ways to tackle it. By providing your dog with sufficient exercise, mental stimulation, and variety, you can enrich his life and prevent boredom. Remember that every dog is unique and it is important to experiment with different activities and routines to discover what works best for your four-legged friend.

You and your dog will both benefit from the extra time and effort you put into his well-being. After all, a happy, stimulated dog is the best companion!
 

Evie Van Hove is PgD Clinical Animal Behaviour, certified puppy coach, dog trainer and behaviour coach. She has been business manager of Pettherapy.be since 2021.