Do you ever wonder what your furry friend gets up to when you’re not around? A bored dog can quickly turn into a mischievous one, finding their own “fun” in ways that might not be so fun for you—like turning your favourite slipper into a chew toy.
But how do you know if your pooch is pining for a bit more action? Here are five classic signs of a bored dog and some brilliant ways to banish that boredom for good!
1. The Great Escape Artist
A bored dog with a taste for adventure might try to become an escape artist. If you find them suddenly digging under the garden fence, chewing through a gate, or making a break for it during a walk, it could be a sign that they’re craving more excitement and mental stimulation.
What to do: Secure your garden, of course, but also get to the root of the problem. A long, sniff-filled walk in a new location can do wonders. Let your dog explore and follow their nose. You could also try some scent work games in the house, like hiding treats for them to find.
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2. The Perpetual Whinger
Is your dog whining, barking, or howling for no apparent reason? While they might just be trying to get your attention, persistent vocalisation can often be a cry for help. It’s their way of saying, “I’m bored! Entertain me!”
What to do: Instead of rewarding the noise with attention, channel that energy into a positive outlet. Try a game of “find the toy” or teach them a new trick. Learning a new command, like “roll over” or “speak,” is a great way to engage their brain and tire them out.
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3. Your Furniture Becomes a Chew Toy
A chewed-up sofa cushion or a shredded newspaper is a classic calling card of a bored dog. Chewing is a natural behaviour for canines, but if it’s destructive and targeted at your belongings, it’s a strong sign they need a better outlet for their oral fixation.
What to do: Provide them with appropriate chew toys! Look for durable options like solid rubber toys or a stuffed Kong. You can make it extra enticing by filling the Kong with peanut butter or some tasty dog food and freezing it. It’ll keep them occupied for ages.
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4. The Shadow of Your Life
Does your dog follow you from room to room, never leaving your side? While it’s lovely to feel so adored, excessive clinginess can be a sign of a lack of independent entertainment. They rely on you for all their fun.
What to do: Encourage some solo play. Introduce a new puzzle toy or a snuffle mat. These items are designed to challenge your dog to work for their food or treats, keeping their mind busy without needing you to be their constant playmate.
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5. Zoomies! But at Inconvenient Times
We all love a good case of the “zoomies”—that sudden burst of manic energy where your dog runs around the house like a lunatic. But if these bursts are happening at all hours, or seem particularly intense, it could be a sign of pent-up energy from a day of inactivity.
What to do: Regular, vigorous exercise is key. A game of fetch in the park, a brisk jog, or even a session of tug-of-war in the living room can help them burn off that excess energy. Remember, a tired dog is a happy dog (and a well-behaved one!).
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