If you have a dog, you know that they can get bored easily. Dogs are pack animals and need something to keep them busy during the day. If your dog is left alone for too long, it will become unhappy and destructive. Keeping dogs entertained can be difficult, but there are several things you can do to keep them busy while you’re away.
Learn what your dog likes best
Dogs are individuals just like people and they all have their own interests and dislikes. Some dogs are more active than others and some prefer toys over food treats.
Some dogs like to snuggle up next to their owners while others prefer more space. If you know what your dog likes, then you can use that knowledge to find ways to keep him happy when you’re out of the house.
Learn about your dog’s body language
Dogs communicate with one another through body language just as much as they do with words and sounds (or barks). Each type of movement has its own meaning that might not be obvious at first glance but once you start paying attention, it will become second nature for you to interpret what your pup is trying to tell you through his actions.
For example, if your dog is wagging his tail furiously back and forth while looking at you expectantly, then he probably wants something from you.
Give a simple job
Dogs need to have something to do when their human companions are away. A good way to keep them busy is by giving them some sort of job that they can do on their own. This could be anything from fetching a ball, going for a walk with the leash, or chasing down a Frisbee.
These activities will not only help keep them from getting bored but also give them an opportunity to burn off some energy before coming back inside.
Build a digging box
If you have an older dog who enjoys digging, then building them their own digging box can be great fun for both of you. The best way to go about this is by using concrete blocks or bricks that are buried under soil and dirt so that it creates tunnels and mazes for your pooch to explore when they’re feeling bored and restless during the day time hours.
Bubbles
Bubbles can be a great way to keep your dog entertained. It takes some time for them to figure out how it works, but once they do, they will love it. The bubbles are something different for them and it makes for a great playtime activity.
Bubbles are also cheap and easy to find at any store. You can even make your own if you want something more fun.
Spin the Bottle
This game is similar to musical chairs, but instead of chairs, you use bottles or cans that you have sitting around in the yard. The idea of this game is that when someone spins the bottle, whatever direction it points at must sit down until there are only two players left standing.
After those two players are chosen, they must sit down on opposite ends of the yard while everyone else has ten seconds to hide behind objects or bushes so they cannot be seen by anyone else left standing in the yard.
Flirt Pole
If you have room in your yard, this is a great way to keep your dog busy while giving them mental stimulation at the same time. It’s like having a tennis ball launcher that never runs out of ammo. They’ll chase after it over and over again until they get tired enough to lay down next to you and relax while you do other things around the house or yard, like gardening or mowing the lawn.
Laser Pointer
Dogs love to chase things, so this is a great way to get their attention. You can also use the laser pointer to get them excited about learning new tricks or commands. Pointing at objects and having your dog follow the line of light with their eyes is also a great way for them to develop better focus and concentration skills.
Don’t forget that when playing with a laser pointer, you should always make sure your dog is wearing high-visibility clothing so they don’t run into any trouble while chasing the light around.
Water Games
Dogs love water, and there are all kinds of games you can play with your dog that involve water. The best place to start is with fun pool toys. You can find a variety of different types online or at any pet store.
Some dogs may enjoy retrieving a ball while others will prefer a Frisbee or even a kiddie pool full of water. You can also try sprinkling some treats around the yard so that your dog will have to work hard to find them all.
Scent and Search
A game to keep your dog busy is scent and search. This game requires that you use a scent that your dog can easily find, such as a specific toy or food. Have the dog sit in front of you and tell him to “find it” or “where’s it?” Then, hide the item behind your back.
You can play this game with one or more people hiding items at different locations around the yard. The dog must sniff out each item before he receives his reward (food). A variation on this game is hide-and-seek where one person hides and another person finds them.
Fetch and Frisbee
Dogs love chasing after Frisbees and balls. If you have an enclosed yard where your dog can run around freely, this is a great way to keep him entertained. If not, then make sure that your dog isn’t running out into the street when he chases after his ball or Frisbee.
Tunnel Action
If you have a tunnel available, you can lay it out in your yard so that your dog can go through it. Make sure that there are no holes big enough for him to get stuck in though. If he won’t go through by himself, then try putting some treats on the other side of the tunnel (or inside if you have small dogs).
Jolly Ball
Jolly Balls are great for indoor play. Your dog can chase the ball around and they won’t hurt themselves on corners or doors because it’s soft. They come in all kinds of sizes and colors so there is something for everyone.
Tug of War
This is a great way for your dog to burn off energy and get some exercise. It also helps them build muscle and strengthen their jaw, which is important for dogs who chew on things like furniture or shoes. One word of caution though: don’t let your dog bite hard on their rope toy too often because it can damage their teeth.
Catch and Chase
Throw a ball or Frisbee out into the yard and see if they can fetch it back. My dogs love this game because they get lots of exercise running around after it. I also like playing catch with my dogs because it gives me time to bond with them while having fun at the same time.
Chewing Toys
Dogs like to chew. That’s why it’s important to provide your dog with lots of toys that are designed to withstand teeth and jaws. This will help prevent damage to furniture and other household items. The best kind of toys for dogs are those made from durable rubber or hard plastic.
Do not give your dog anything that resembles food, such as rawhide chews or bones. These can cause choking if swallowed whole, which could be fatal for your dog.
RC Car
Remote-controlled cars have been around for years and have become a common toy for children and adults alike. If you’re looking for something new to entertain your pet during the day while you’re at work or school, consider buying one of these remote-controlled vehicles as a way to keep your dog busy while you’re away. Just make sure you don’t let him chew on it.
Final thoughts
There are plenty of ways to keep your dog amused and entertained in the yard, so you won’t have to worry that they’re getting a little bored. Not only will you enjoy watching your dog play, but you’ll know that they’re getting some exercise, as well.
Your dog will feel happy, healthy and important when he has a job to do.
